Martin Balsam

Born:November 4, 1919

Place of Birth:Bronx, New York, USA

Died:February 13, 1996

Known For:Acting

Biography

Martin Balsam, born on November 4, 1919, was a versatile American actor who left a lasting impact on the film industry. Throughout his career, Balsam portrayed a wide range of characters, showcasing his talent and depth as an actor. One of his most iconic roles was that of detective Milton Arbogast in Alfred Hitchcock's classic thriller, "Psycho" (1960), where he captivated audiences with his portrayal of a determined investigator.

In addition to his memorable performance in "Psycho," Balsam's portrayal of Arnold Burns in "A Thousand Clowns" (1965) solidified his reputation as a skilled character actor. His exceptional work in the film earned him the prestigious Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, highlighting his ability to bring depth and authenticity to his roles. Balsam's talent was further showcased in his role as Juror #1 in the timeless classic "12 Angry Men" (1957), where he delivered a compelling performance as a principled juror seeking justice.

Beyond his work in film, Balsam also made a mark on television with his role as Murray Klein in the beloved sitcom "Archie Bunker's Place" (1979–1983). His portrayal of Mr. Green in "The Taking of Pelham One Two Three" (1974) further demonstrated his versatility as an actor, showcasing his ability to inhabit diverse characters with ease. Balsam's career was marked by his dedication to his craft and his ability to immerse himself fully in each role he undertook.

Throughout his career, Balsam collaborated with some of the industry's most acclaimed directors and actors, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of cinema. His commitment to his craft and his ability to bring depth and authenticity to his characters set him apart as a true talent in the entertainment industry. Balsam's contributions to film and television continue to be remembered and celebrated by audiences and critics alike, solidifying his place as a respected and admired figure in Hollywood.

Martin Balsam's remarkable body of work serves as a testament to his talent and passion for acting. His performances continue to resonate with audiences, showcasing his ability to bring complexity and nuance to every character he portrayed. Balsam's legacy as an actor endures, with his work remaining a source of inspiration for aspiring performers and a reminder of the power of storytelling through the art of acting.

Images

Filmography

Acting

12 Angry Men

Juror 1

1957

The defense and the prosecution have rested and the jury is filing into the jury room to decide if a young Spanish-American is guilty or innocent of murdering his father. What begins as an open and shut case soon becomes a mini-drama of each of the jurors' prejudices and preconceptions about the trial, the accused, and each other.

Psycho

Private Det. Milton Arbogast

1960

When larcenous real estate clerk Marion Crane goes on the lam with a wad of cash and hopes of starting a new life, she ends up at the notorious Bates Motel, where manager Norman Bates cares for his housebound mother.

Murder on the Orient Express

Signor Bianchi

1974

In 1935, when his train is stopped by deep snow, detective Hercule Poirot is called on to solve a murder that occurred in his car the night before.

Breakfast at Tiffany's

O.J. Berman

1961

Holly Golightly is an eccentric New York City playgirl determined to marry a Brazilian millionaire. But when young writer Paul Varjak moves into her apartment building, her past threatens to get in their way.

On the Waterfront

Gillette (uncredited)

1954

Terry Malloy is a kindhearted dockworker, and former boxer, who is tricked by his corrupt bosses into leading his friend to death. After falling in love, he tries to leave the waterfront and expose his employers.

All the President's Men

Howard Simons

1976

During the 1972 elections, two reporters' investigation sheds light on the controversial Watergate scandal that compels President Nixon to resign from his post.

The Delta Force

Ben Kaplan

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.

Tora! Tora! Tora!

Admiral Husband E. Kimmel

1970

In the summer of 1941, the United States and Japan seem on the brink of war after constant embargos and failed diplomacy come to no end. "Tora! Tora! Tora!", named after the code words used by the lead Japanese pilot to indicate they had surprised the Americans, covers the days leading up to the attack on Pearl Harbor, which plunged America into the Second World War.

Little Big Man

Mr. Merriweather

1970

Jack Crabb, looking back from extreme old age, tells of his life being raised by Indians and fighting with General Custer.

Catch-22

Col. Cathcart

1970

A bombardier in World War II tries desperately to escape the insanity of the war. However, sometimes insanity is the only sane way to cope with a crazy situation.

Death Wish 3

Bennett Cross

1985

Architect/vigilante Paul Kersey arrives back in New York City and is forcibly recruited by a crooked police chief to fight street crime caused by a large gang terrorizing the neighborhoods.

St. Elmo's Fire

Mr. Beamish

1985

A group of friends graduates from the halls of Georgetown University into lives that revolve around sex and career aspirations. Kirby waits tables to pay for law school. His roommate Kevin struggles at a D.C. newspaper as he searches for the meaning of love. Jules may be an object of adoration and envy, but secretly she has problems of her own. Demure Wendy is in love with Billy—a loveable sax player and an irresponsible drunk. Alec wants it all: a career in politics and the appearance of a traditional home life. Alec’s girlfriend, Leslie, is an ambitious architect who doesn't know about his infidelity, but his new allegiance to the Republican Party is already enough to put her off marriage.

Cape Fear

Police Chief Mark Dutton

1962

Sam Bowden witnesses a rape committed by Max Cady and testifies against him. When released after 8 years in prison, Cady begins stalking Bowden and his family but is always clever enough not to violate the law.

The Taking of Pelham One Two Three

Green

1974

In New York, armed men hijack a subway car and demand a ransom for the passengers. Even if it's paid, how could they get away?

Two Evil Eyes

Mr. Pym

1990

A duo of Edgar Allan Poe adaptations about a greedy wife's attempt to embezzle her dying husband's fortune, and a sleazy reporter's adoption of a strange black cat.