Merian C. Cooper Merian Caldwell Cooper ( October 24 , 1893 -- April 21 , 1973 ) was an American aviator , United States Air Force and Polish Air Force officer , adventurer , screenwriter , film director and producer .
Merian C. Cooper Merian Caldwell Cooper ( October 24 , 1893 -- April 21 , 1973 ) was an American aviator , United States Air Force and Polish Air Force officer , adventurer , screenwriter , actor , movie director and producer .