István Szabó is a renowned Hungarian film director and screenwriter, born on February 18, 1938. He is best known for his work in the 1970s and 1980s, particularly for films that explore themes of identity, history, and personal struggle. His notable works include Mephisto, which won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 1981. Szabó's films often reflect the complexities of life in Hungary during and after World War II. He has collaborated with various actors and filmmakers, contributing significantly to the Hungarian cinema landscape. His storytelling style combines rich character development with historical context, making his films both engaging and thought-provoking.