Pierre Brasseur

Pierre Brasseur

Born:December 22, 1905

Place of Birth:Paris, France

Died:August 16, 1972

Known For:Acting

Biography

Pierre Brasseur, originally named Pierre-Albert Espinasse, was a prominent French actor born on December 22, 1905, in Paris. Hailing from a family deeply rooted in the entertainment industry, Brasseur inherited his passion for acting from his father, Georges Espinasse, and his mother, Germaine Brasseur, who was married to Albert Brasseur. The legacy of the Brasseur name was carried on by his son Claude and grandson Alexandre, solidifying their family's imprint on the acting world.

Known for his remarkable ability to embody larger-than-life characters, Brasseur left a lasting impact on audiences worldwide. While his portrayal of the actor Frédérick Lemaître in the iconic film "Les Enfants du Paradis" introduced him to English-speaking audiences, it was his nuanced performance as Docteur Génessier in the chilling horror classic "Eyes Without a Face" that showcased his versatility as an actor, alongside the talented Alida Valli.

Brasseur's talent transcended the silver screen, as he showcased his commanding presence on the stage as well. A notable moment in his theatrical career was on May 30, 1927, when he delivered a captivating performance as the Narrator in the world premiere of Igor Stravinsky's opera-oratorio "Oedipus rex," leaving a lasting impression on the audience with his powerful voice and stage presence.

Throughout his career, Brasseur's dedication to his craft and his ability to breathe life into every character he portrayed earned him critical acclaim and admiration from his peers. His contribution to the entertainment industry continues to inspire aspiring actors and remains a testament to his enduring legacy in French cinema.

Despite his passing on August 16, 1972, in Bruneck, Italy, Pierre Brasseur's work lives on, etched in the hearts of cinephiles and theater enthusiasts alike. His impact on the world of film and theater endures, a testament to his talent and the indelible mark he left on the art of acting. Pierre Brasseur's name remains synonymous with excellence and artistry, a true luminary in the realm of French cinema.

Images

Pierre Brasseur
Pierre Brasseur
Pierre Brasseur

Filmography

Acting

Eyes Without a Face

Eyes Without a Face

Professor Génessier

1960

Dr. Génessier is riddled with guilt after an accident that he caused disfigures the face of his daughter, the once beautiful Christiane, who outsiders believe is dead. Dr. Génessier, along with accomplice and laboratory assistant Louise, kidnaps young women and brings them to the Génessier mansion. After rendering his victims unconscious, Dr. Génessier removes their faces and attempts to graft them on to Christiane's.
Children of Paradise

Children of Paradise

Frédérick Lemaître

1945

In a chaotic 19th-century Paris teeming with aristocrats, thieves, psychics, and courtesans, theater mime Baptiste is in love with the mysterious actress Garance. But Garance, in turn, is loved by three other men: pretentious actor Frederick, conniving thief Lacenaire, and Count Edouard of Montray.

Production