John Alvin

John Henry Alvin (November 24, 1948 – February 6, 2008) was an American cinematic artist and painter who illustrated many movie posters. Alvin created posters and key art for more than 135 films, beginning with the poster for Mel Brooks's Blazing Saddles (1974). His style of art became known as Alvinesque by friends and colleagues in the entertainment industry. Alvin's work includes the movie posters for E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Blade Runner, Gremlins, The Goonies, The Color Purple, The Little Mermaid, Batman Returns, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, The Lion King, Space Jam, The Emperor's New Groove, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, and Looney Tunes: Back in Action. He also created the anniversary posters for Star Wars. Early life and education John Alvin was born on November 24, 1948, in Hyannis, Massachusetts. His parents were in the United States military and the family was relocated often. The Alvins settled permanently in the area of Monterey, California, where Alvin graduated from Pacific Grove High School in 1966.