Joe D'Amato was an Italian filmmaker, born on December 15, 1936, in Rome, Italy. He is best known for his work in the genres of horror and adult films, particularly during the 1970s and 1980s. D'Amato directed over 100 films, often using pseudonyms, and gained a reputation for his controversial and provocative storytelling. His most notable works include the cult classic Anthropophagus and the infamous Emanuelle series. D'Amato's films often featured graphic content and explored taboo subjects, which contributed to his notoriety in the film industry. He passed away on January 3, 1999, leaving behind a complex legacy in cinema.