René Clément was a French film director and screenwriter, born on March 18, 1913, in Bordeaux, France. He is best known for his work in the post-World War II era, particularly for films like La bataille du rail and Plein Soleil. His films often explored themes of human struggle and moral dilemmas, showcasing his unique storytelling style. Clément's career spanned several decades, and he received numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film for La bataille du rail. He was influential in the development of French cinema and is remembered for his contributions to the art of filmmaking until his death on March 17, 1996.