Lee Marvin

Born:February 19, 1924

Place of Birth:New York City, New York, USA

Died:August 29, 1987

Known For:Acting

Biography

Lee Marvin, born on February 19, 1924, left a lasting impact on American cinema with his rugged charm and distinctive voice. His premature white hair only added to his unique on-screen presence, making him stand out among his peers in Hollywood.

Marvin began his acting career by portraying supporting roles, often as villains or tough soldiers, showcasing his versatility and range as an actor. One of his most memorable television roles was as Detective Lieutenant Frank Ballinger in the crime series M Squad from 1957 to 1960, where he captivated audiences with his portrayal of a no-nonsense law enforcer.

However, it was on the big screen where Marvin truly shined, cementing his legacy as a leading man in classic films such as "The Killers" (1964), "The Professionals" (1966), and "The Dirty Dozen" (1967). His portrayal of tough guy characters like Charlie Strom and Major John Reisman showcased his ability to command the screen with his powerful presence and intense performances.

In the iconic film "Cat Ballou" (1965), Marvin displayed his versatility by taking on dual roles as the gunfighter Kid Shelleen and the villainous Tim Strawn. This role not only earned him critical acclaim but also prestigious awards, including the Academy Award for Best Actor, a BAFTA Award, a Golden Globe Award, an NBR Award, and the Silver Bear for Best Actor.

Throughout his career, Lee Marvin's work left an indelible mark on the film industry, influencing generations of actors to come. His collaborations with renowned directors and fellow actors solidified his status as a Hollywood legend, with films like "Point Blank" (1967) and "The Big Red One" (1980) showcasing his talent and dedication to his craft.

Despite his tough exterior on screen, off-screen Marvin was known for his professionalism and dedication to his craft, earning the respect and admiration of his peers in the industry. His legacy as a versatile actor and a true Hollywood icon continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, solidifying his rightful place in the pantheon of cinematic legends.

Lee Marvin's impact on American cinema transcends time, with his performances continuing to inspire and entertain audiences decades after his passing. His contribution to the art of acting and storytelling remains unparalleled, leaving behind a body of work that will be cherished for generations to come.

Images

Filmography

Acting

The Dirty Dozen

Maj. John Reisman

1967

12 American military prisoners in World War II are ordered to infiltrate a well-guarded enemy château and kill the Nazi officers vacationing there. The soldiers, most of whom are facing death sentences for a variety of violent crimes, agree to the mission and the possible commuting of their sentences.

The Delta Force

Colonel Nick Alexander

1986

A 707 aircraft jetliner, en route from Athens to Rome and then to New York City, is hijacked by Lebanese terrorists, who demand that the pilot take them to Beirut. What the terrorists don't realize is that an elite team of commandos have been called in to eliminate all terrorists on the jetliner.

The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance

Liberty Valance

1962

Questions arise when Senator Stoddard attends the funeral of a local man named Tom Doniphon in a small Western town. Flashing back, we learn Doniphon saved Stoddard, then a lawyer, when he was roughed up by a crew of outlaws terrorizing the town, led by Liberty Valance. As the territory's safety hung in the balance, Doniphon and Stoddard, two of the only people standing up to him, proved to be very important, but different, foes to Valance.

Gorky Park

Jack Osborne

1983

Police Inspector Renko tries to solve the case of three bodies found in Moscow's Gorky Park but finds his attempts to solve the crime impeded by his superiors. Working on his own, Renko seeks out more information and stumbles across a conspiracy involving the highest levels of the government.

The Comancheros

Crow

1961

Texas Ranger Jake Cutter arrests gambler Paul Regret, but soon finds himself teamed with his prisoner in an undercover effort to defeat a band of renegade arms merchants and thieves known as Comancheros.

The Caine Mutiny

Meatball

1954

When a US Naval captain shows signs of mental instability that jeopardize his ship, the first officer relieves him of command and faces court martial for mutiny.

The Professionals

Fardan

1966

An arrogant Texas millionaire hires four adventurers to rescue his kidnapped wife from a notorious Mexican bandit.

Donovan's Reef

Thomas "Boats" Gilhooley

1963

After her great aunt's death, a high-society woman arrives on a Hawaiian island in search of the heir - the father she has never met.

Bad Day at Black Rock

Hector David

1955

One-armed war veteran John J. Macreedy steps off a train at the sleepy little town of Black Rock. Once there, he begins to unravel a web of lies, secrecy, and murder.

The Big Heat

Vince Stone

1953

After the suspicious suicide of a fellow cop, tough homicide detective Dave Bannion takes the law into his own hands when he sets out to smash a vicious crime syndicate.

Point Blank

Walker

1967

After being double-crossed and left for dead, a mysterious man named Walker single-mindedly tries to retrieve the rather inconsequential sum of money that was stolen from him.

The Big Red One

The Sergeant

1980

A veteran sergeant of World War I leads a squad in World War II, always in the company of the survivor Pvt. Griff, the writer Pvt. Zab, the Sicilian Pvt. Vinci and Pvt. Johnson, in Vichy French Africa, Sicily, D-Day at Omaha Beach, Belgium and France, and ending in a concentration camp in Czechoslovakia where they face the true horror of war.

The Wild One

Chino

1953

The Black Rebels Motorcycle Club ride into the small California town of Wrightsville, eager to raise hell. Brooding gang leader Johnny Strabler takes a liking to Kathie, the daughter of the local lawman, as another club rolls into town.

Emperor of the North

A No. 1

1973

Hobos encounter a sadistic railway conductor that will not let anyone "ride the rails" for free.

Production

The Caine Mutiny

Technical Supervisor

1954

When a US Naval captain shows signs of mental instability that jeopardize his ship, the first officer relieves him of command and faces court martial for mutiny.