Dan Goozee, a distinguished artist celebrated for his iconic movie posters and imaginative theme park designs, died on April 7, 2024, at West Hills Hospital & Medical Center in California. At the age of 80, Goozee succumbed to an age-related illness that he had valiantly fought over the last two years.
Born in 1943 in Astoria, Oregon, Goozee discovered his passion for art in his youth while working at movie theaters operated by his family in Seaside, Oregon. After graduating from the ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena, California, in 1965, Goozee quickly made his mark in the art department at Fox. He served as a production illustrator on several significant films, including “The Towering Inferno” (1974), “Tora! Tora! Tora!” (1970), “Doctor Dolittle” (1967), and “The Poseidon Adventure” (1972).
Goozee also made significant contributions to television, handling effects work for series like “Battlestar Galactica” (1978) and “Buck Rogers in the 25th Century” (1979). His career took a pivotal turn in the late 1970s when he joined Walt Disney Imagineering. There, he was instrumental in shaping the visitor experience at Disneyland Paris and Tokyo DisneySea, particularly on attractions such as Splash Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.
Goozee’s work on the James Bond films “Moonraker” (1979), “Octopussy” (1983), and “A View to a Kill” (1985) is particularly renowned, showcasing Roger Moore’s 007 in dynamic compositions with co-stars Lois Chiles, Maud Adams, and Grace Jones. Additionally, his creative genius adorned the posters for “Clash of the Titans” (1981) and “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace” (1987), among others.
Recognized by esteemed art organizations, Goozee received accolades from the Oil Painters of America, Watercolor West, and the California National Watercolor Society. His artwork not only graces several private collections but also is prominently displayed at the Los Angeles Athletic Club and the Autry Museum of the American West.
Dan Goozee leaves behind a rich legacy celebrated by his wife, Michi; his son, Rob; daughter-in-law, Sarah; and twin grandsons, Christopher and Jonathan. His innovative spirit and profound artistic influence continue to resonate throughout the art and entertainment industries.
