Drew Struzan has been the creative force behind some of the most epic and unforgettable imagery in cinema, ranging from Star Wars to Harry Potter. However, the legendary movie poster artist passed away on October 13, 2025, at the age of 78.
A post shared by Drew Struzan (@drewstruzanart)
The announcement was made on his official Instagram account, where you can revisit his work for features and other drawings. After all, his creations defined movie poster art for generations, and he’s painted over 150 of them for the most prominent and renowned films.
So, let’s take a look at Struzan’s revolutionary art and distinctive style to honor his memory.
Harry Potter, Star Wars, and More: Drew Struzan’s Best Works That Elevated Cinema
Drew Struzan’s name might not be as big as the acting talent, but his art shaped the way we look at movies. In his early days, Struzan began to craft album covers for legendary artists such as The Beach Boys, Black Sabbath, and Alice Cooper.
His first film posters included Empire of the Ants and The Food of the Gods, but it was working on Star Wars that forever linked his name to the franchise. From then on, his career took off, and he was painting almost every face in pop culture.
He designed for Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, Back to the Future, Blade Runner, The Goonies, First Blood, and E.T. In the early 2000s, when digital art was emerging, Struzan stuck to his old methods and went on to create more iconic posters for Hellboy, and Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.
A Closer Look at Drew Struzan’s Unique Art Style for Posters
Drew Struzan didn’t just make illustrations, but frames that distilled the movie in a single sheet. Airbrushing with acrylics was his go-to, with layered colored pencil detailing, and each of them seemed to be built from live models and photo references.
Struzan’s posters can be recognized easily, as they have a montage-like composition. He’d have a central heroic portrait, surrounded by supporting characters, and around them you’d find swirls and symbolic imagery. His mastery of light and color was commendable because Struzan painted with glowing halos.
His posters would have fiery oranges and deep blues that seemed dramatic and beautiful. The faces were accurate, and somehow you could feel the character’s essence just through the image. Unlike today’s sleek digital posters (now ruined further by AI), Struzan’s work felt so much more alive.
Most importantly, they told stories, and you wouldn’t just look at the characters but also their inner calling. His death marks the end of an era, but with his work, the artist has immortalized himself for as long as the world has appreciation for beautiful posters and cinema.
What do you think was Struzan’s best poster? Share your favorite!
