Sal Mineo

Born:January 10, 1939

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

Died:February 12, 1976

Known For:Acting

Biography

Sal Mineo, born Salvatore Mineo Jr., was a multifaceted talent in the American entertainment industry. His impact as an actor, singer, and director left a lasting impression on audiences worldwide. While he had a diverse body of work, Mineo is most fondly remembered for his poignant portrayal of John "Plato" Crawford in the iconic drama film "Rebel Without a Cause" in 1955. This role not only showcased his acting prowess but also earned him a well-deserved nomination for the prestigious Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

Beyond his memorable performance in "Rebel Without a Cause," Mineo graced the silver screen in several other notable films. His appearances in movies such as "Crime in the Streets" and "Giant" in 1956 showcased his versatility and range as an actor. One of his career highlights was his role in "Exodus" in 1960, a performance that garnered him a Golden Globe and marked his second Academy Award nomination, solidifying his status as a respected talent in Hollywood.

In addition to his success in dramatic roles, Mineo also showcased his acting chops in films like "The Longest Day" in 1962 and "Escape from the Planet of the Apes" in 1971. His ability to immerse himself in diverse characters and bring them to life on the big screen set him apart as a versatile performer with a captivating on-screen presence. Mineo's dedication to his craft and his commitment to delivering authentic and compelling performances endeared him to audiences of all ages.

Off-screen, Mineo's passion for the arts extended beyond acting. He also delved into directing, further demonstrating his creative talents and his deep understanding of storytelling. His foray into directing allowed him to explore new facets of his creativity and leave a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.

Despite his untimely passing in 1976, Sal Mineo's contributions to film and entertainment continue to be celebrated and remembered by fans and critics alike. His impact on cinema, particularly in the realm of character-driven storytelling, remains a testament to his talent and dedication to his craft. Sal Mineo's legacy endures through his memorable performances and his influence on generations of actors who have been inspired by his work.

Images

Filmography

Acting

Escape from the Planet of the Apes

Dr. Milo

1971

The world is shocked by the appearance of three talking chimpanzees, who arrived mysteriously in a spacecraft. Intrigued by their intelligence, humans use them for research - until the apes attempt to escape.

The Greatest Story Ever Told

Uriah

1965

From his birth in Bethlehem to his death and eventual resurrection, the life of Jesus Christ is given the all-star treatment in this epic retelling. Major aspects of Christ's life are touched upon, including the execution of all the newborn males in Egypt by King Herod; Christ's baptism by John the Baptist; and the betrayal by Judas after the Last Supper that eventually leads to Christ's crucifixion and miraculous return.

The Longest Day

Pvt. Martini

1962

The retelling of June 6, 1944, from the perspectives of the Germans, US, British, Canadians, and the Free French. Marshall Erwin Rommel, touring the defenses being established as part of the Reich's Atlantic Wall, notes to his officers that when the Allied invasion comes they must be stopped on the beach. "For the Allies as well as the Germans, it will be the longest day"

Giant

Angel Obregón II

1956

Wealthy rancher Bick Benedict and dirt-poor cowboy Jett Rink both woo Leslie Lynnton, a beautiful young woman from Maryland who is new to Texas. She marries Benedict, but she is shocked by the racial bigotry of the White Texans against the local people of Mexican descent. Rink discovers oil on a small plot of land, and while he uses his vast, new wealth to buy all the land surrounding the Benedict ranch, the Benedict's disagreement over prejudice fuels conflict that runs across generations.

Rebel Without a Cause

John 'Plato' Crawford

1955

After moving to a new town, troublemaking teen Jim Stark is supposed to have a clean slate, although being the new kid in town brings its own problems. While searching for some stability, Stark forms a bond with a disturbed classmate, Plato, and falls for local girl Judy. However, Judy is the girlfriend of neighborhood tough, Buzz. When Buzz violently confronts Jim and challenges him to a drag race, the new kid's real troubles begin.

Exodus

Dov Landau

1960

Ari Ben Canaan, a passionate member of the Jewish paramilitary group Haganah, attempts to transport 600 Jewish refugees on a dangerous voyage from Cyprus to Palestine on a ship named the Exodus. He faces obstruction from British forces, who will not grant the ship passage to its destination.

Los Angeles Plays Itself

John 'Plato' Crawford in Rebel Without A Cause (archive footage)

2004

From its distinctive neighborhoods to its architectural homes, Los Angeles has been the backdrop to countless movies. In this dazzling work, Andersen takes viewers on a whirlwind tour through the metropolis' real and cinematic history, investigating the myriad stories and legends that have come to define it, and meticulously, judiciously revealing the real city that lives beneath.

Somebody Up There Likes Me

Romolo

1956

The story of boxer Rocky Graziano's rise from juvenile delinquent to world champ.