Early Life and Career
Dante was born in Morristown, New Jersey. His father was a professional golf player, though Joe was more interested in becoming a cartoonist. Dante began his movie career working for legendary low budget producer Roger Corman, who provided similar opportunities to future directors Francis Ford Coppola and James Cameron. He worked as an editor on films such as Grand Theft Auto before co-directing Hollywood Boulevard with Allan Arkush.
His first full feature film, Roger Corman produced quickee Piranha, was released in 1978. Inspired by Steven Spielberg hit Jaws, the film was written by John Sayles. Dante then invited Sayles to rewrite the script for werewolf tale The Howling, loosely based on the novel by Gary Brandner.
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