Early Influences:
* Ray Harryhausen: Jackson's love for fantasy and creature effects stemmed from his childhood fascination with Harryhausen's stop-motion animation work in films like "Jason and the Argonauts" and "Clash of the Titans".
* Roger Corman: Corman's low-budget, high-concept approach to filmmaking influenced Jackson's early work, particularly his ability to create big effects on a small budget.
* Stanley Kubrick: Jackson has often cited Kubrick as a master of visual storytelling and his meticulous attention to detail. He learned from Kubrick's use of long takes and the creation of immersive worlds.
* George Lucas: Jackson has acknowledged the impact of Lucas's "Star Wars" on his own work, particularly the scope and ambition of the films.
Later Influences:
* David Cronenberg: Jackson's fascination with body horror and surreal imagery can be traced back to Cronenberg's films like "The Fly" and "Videodrome."
* Sam Peckinpah: Jackson has admired Peckinpah's use of violence and brutality in his films, and his ability to make audiences feel uncomfortable while still being entertained.
* Alfred Hitchcock: Jackson learned from Hitchcock's mastery of suspense and his ability to create tension through clever editing and camerawork.
* Federico Fellini: Jackson has been inspired by Fellini's surrealist and dreamlike visual style, particularly his use of fantasy and imagination in his films.
Other Influences:
* J.R.R. Tolkien: Jackson's adaptation of "The Lord of the Rings" is deeply influenced by Tolkien's epic fantasy world, its mythology, and its themes.
* Edgar Allan Poe: Poe's dark and gothic tales have inspired Jackson's use of suspense and horror in his films.
* The Beatles: Jackson is a lifelong Beatles fan, and their music has often been featured in his films, adding a layer of emotional depth and nostalgia.
* Classic horror films: Jackson has a deep appreciation for classic horror films, particularly the works of Universal Studios, which have inspired his use of monsters, creatures, and spooky atmosphere.
Peter Jackson has always been a keen observer of film and has drawn inspiration from a diverse range of sources. His films are a testament to his passion for storytelling and his willingness to experiment with different styles and genres.