[3] Born in Antilla,[1] Oriente Province, Cuba, he was raised on a remote farm before emigrating to New York with his family as a teenager.
Ferro's diverse film work ranged from the title sequence for Stanley Kubrick's Dr. Strangelove to the multi-dynamic image montage of the original The Thomas Crown Affair.
[9] Ferro's visual style has influenced many in film, television, animation, commercials, novels and children's books.
A self-taught filmmaker, Ferro initially gained prominence with animations such as the first color NBC Peacock and the Burlington Mills "stitching" logo, as well as technologically novel visual presentations, including the Singer Pavilion's film at the 1964 New York World's Fair – the first time film projectors were used to create multiple-screen images.
In addition to directing and producing his own feature film, Me, Myself & I (1992) with George Segal and JoBeth Williams, he performed as an actor for Robert Downey Sr. as Chief Cloud In the Head in Greaser's Palace as well as a salsa dancer in Hugo Pool.
Ferro worked as visual consultant, second-unit director on several films, such as contributing the "pornographic" effects to a special montage within Midnight Cowboy.
His innovative approach to film title sequences brought a new level of dynamism and energy to the screen, influencing generations of designers and filmmakers.
Ferro's playful yet impactful lettering added a distinctive character that has been a source of inspiration for many in the design community.
[17] Cultural Impact: Ferro's visceral approach to advertising and film titles inspired his clients to take risks with color, editing, and bold imagery.
Ferro's ability to bring a unique and compelling visual style to their projects made him a sought-after designer in Hollywood.