Jean-Pierre Bastid

Known for: Writing
Born: February 4, 1937
Died: January 22, 2026 (aged 88)
Birthplace: Montreuil-sous-Bois, Seine-Saint-Denis, Île-de-France, France

Biography

Jean-Pierre Bastid is a French writer, director, and screenwriter recognized for his work in film and literature. After studying at the Institut des hautes études cinématographiques (IDHEC), he began his career as an assistant to Jean Cocteau on Le Testament d'Orphée (1960) and worked with Nicholas Ray. Bastid directed several films, including Massacre of Pleasure (1966), which faced censorship in France. He co-wrote the novel Laissez bronzer les cadavres! (1971) with Jean-Patrick Manchette, marking a revival in French noir fiction. Bastid also co-wrote the screenplay for Dupont Lajoie (1975), directed by Yves Boisset. His work spans various genres and mediums, reflecting his versatility and commitment to storytelling.