Born in London, England. Former juvenile performer who turned to directing in the 1940s and made his name with patriotic war films such as ALBERT R.N. (1953) and REACH FOR THE SKY (1956). Gilbert's best work reveals a wry, if sentimental understanding of English social mores, from THE GREENGAGE SUMMER (1961) to ALFIE (also producer, 1966) to SHIRLEY VALENTINE (also producer, 1989). He also directed SINK THE BISMARCK! (1960) and EDUCATING RITA (also producer, 1983). His three "James Bond" outings (YOU ONLY LIVE TWICE, 1967, THE SPY WHO LOVED ME, 1977, and MOONRAKER, 1979) were among the least satisfying of the series. Most recent directing credits include STEPPING OUT (1991, also producer), HAUNTED (1995, also writer & producer) and BEFORE YOU GO (2002).  Nominated for Best Picture 1966: ALFIE - Producer at Sheldrake. 1 nomination