Film-maker Chuck Russell, director of The Mask, dies at 74

Film director Chuck Russell, known for transforming 'The Mask' into a vibrant comedy and launching the careers of Cameron Diaz and Dwayne Johnson, has died at age 74. Russell, who described himself as 'a thrill junkie with a sense of humor,' passed away, though the cause of death has not been disclosed.

Russell's most famous work, 'The Mask' (1994), starred Jim Carrey and became a major hit. Before Russell joined the project, the script had been circulating in Hollywood for years as a horror film. He persuaded New Line Cinema to let him reimagine it as an exuberant comic spectacle, blending special effects with dance and comedy. Carrey later called the film 'one of the jewels of my creative life.'

The film also introduced Cameron Diaz in her first major role, launching her acting career. Russell later directed 'The Scorpion King' (2002), which helped launch Dwayne Johnson's film career. His other credits include 'A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors' (1987) and 'The Blob' (1988).

Russell's death marks the loss of a filmmaker who brought a distinctive blend of humor and spectacle to Hollywood. His legacy includes not only his own films but also the careers he helped launch. No details about memorial services have been announced.