Kirk Douglas

Born:9 dicembre 1916

Place of Birth:Amsterdam, New York, USA

Died:5 febbraio 2020

Known For:Acting

Biography

Kirk Douglas, born Issur Danielovitch on December 9, 1916, was a legendary figure in the world of American cinema. Renowned for his explosive acting style, he captivated audiences with his powerful performances across a career that spanned over 90 movies. Before becoming a Hollywood icon, Douglas, originally known as Izzy Demsky, made a name for himself in the United States Navy during World War II, showcasing his bravery and determination early on.

One of his breakthrough roles came in the film "Champion" (1949), where he portrayed an unscrupulous boxing hero, earning his first Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. This marked the beginning of a series of critically acclaimed performances in movies like "Young Man with a Horn" (1950), "Ace in the Hole" (1951), and "Detective Story" (1951), which showcased his versatility and range as an actor. Douglas's talent and dedication to his craft shone through, earning him multiple award nominations throughout his career.

In 1955, Douglas founded Bryna Productions, a company that produced notable films such as "Paths of Glory" (1957) and "Spartacus" (1960), in which he also starred. His commitment to quality filmmaking extended beyond the screen, as he played a pivotal role in ending the Hollywood blacklist by giving Dalton Trumbo official credit for writing "Spartacus." This act of courage and integrity solidified Douglas's reputation as a trailblazer in the industry.

Beyond his acting prowess, Douglas's contributions to the arts and philanthropy were equally significant. His dedication to various charitable causes and his literary pursuits, which included writing ten novels and memoirs, showcased his multifaceted talents. Douglas's impact on Hollywood was recognized with prestigious honors such as an Oscar for Lifetime Achievement and the Presidential Medal of Freedom, underscoring his lasting legacy in the entertainment world.

Ranked as the 17th greatest male screen legend of classic Hollywood cinema by the American Film Institute, Kirk Douglas's influence transcended generations, leaving an indelible mark on the film industry. His legacy continues to inspire aspiring actors and filmmakers, serving as a testament to his enduring impact on the art of storytelling. Kirk Douglas passed away at the remarkable age of 103, leaving behind a rich cinematic legacy that will forever be remembered and cherished by movie enthusiasts worldwide.

Images

Filmografia

Recitazione

Spartacus

1960

The rebellious Thracian Spartacus, born and raised a slave, is sold to Gladiator trainer Batiatus. After weeks of being trained to kill for the arena, Spartacus turns on his owners and leads the other slaves in rebellion. As the rebels move from town to town, their numbers swell as escaped slaves join their ranks. Under the leadership of Spartacus, they make their way to southern Italy, where they will cross the sea and return to their homes.

Paths of Glory

Col. Dax

1957

A commanding officer defends three scapegoats on trial for a failed offensive that occurred within the French Army in 1916.

The Final Countdown

Capt. Matthew Yelland

1980

During routine manoeuvres near Hawaii in 1980, the aircraft-carrier USS Nimitz is caught in a strange vortex-like storm, throwing the ship back in time to 1941—mere hours before the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.

20,000 Leagues Under the Sea

Ned Land

1954

A ship sent to investigate a wave of mysterious sinkings encounters the advanced submarine, the Nautilus, commanded by Captain Nemo.

The Vikings

Einar

1958

Einar, brutal son of Ragnar and future heir to his throne, tangles with Eric, a wily slave, for the hand of a beautiful English maiden.

Out of the Past

Whit Sterling

1947

Jeff Bailey seems to be a mundane gas station owner in remote Bridgeport, California. He is dating local girl Ann Miller and lives a quiet life. But Jeff has a secret past, and when a mysterious stranger arrives in town, Jeff is forced to return to the dark world he had tried to escape.

Dead Men Don't Wear Plaid

(in "I Walk Alone") (archive footage)

1982

Juliet Forrest is convinced that the reported death of her father in a mountain car crash was no accident. Her father was a prominent cheese scientist working on a secret recipe. To prove it was murder, she enlists the services of private eye Rigby Reardon. He finds a slip of paper containing a list of people who are 'The Friends and Enemies of Carlotta'.

The Bad and the Beautiful

Jonathan Shields

1952

Told in flashback form, the film traces the rise and fall of a tough, ambitious Hollywood producer, Jonathan Shields, as seen through the eyes of various acquaintances, including a writer, James Lee Bartlow; a star, Georgia Lorrison; and a director, Fred Amiel. He is a hard-driving, ambitious man who ruthlessly uses everyone on the way to becoming one of Hollywood's top movie makers.

Lust for Life

Vincent van Gogh

1956

An intense and imaginative artist, revered Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh possesses undeniable talent, but he is plagued by mental problems and frustrations with failure. Supported by his brother, Theo, the tormented Van Gogh eventually leaves Holland for France, where he meets volatile fellow painter Paul Gauguin and struggles to find greater inspiration.

Lynch/Oz

Col. Dax (archive footage) (uncredited)

2023

Victor Fleming’s 1939 film The Wizard of Oz is one of David Lynch’s most enduring obsessions. This documentary goes over the rainbow to explore this Technicolor through-line in Lynch’s work.

Oscar

Eduardo Provolone

1991

Angelo "Snaps" Provolone made his dying father a promise on his deathbed: he would leave the world of crime and become an honest businessman. Despite having no experience in making money in a legal fashion, Snaps sets about to keep his promise.

Ace in the Hole

Charles Tatum

1951

An arrogant reporter exploits a story about a man trapped in a cave to revitalize his career.

Produzione

Spartacus

Executive Producer

1960

Paths of Glory

Producer

1957

A commanding officer defends three scapegoats on trial for a failed offensive that occurred within the French Army in 1916.

The Vikings

Executive Producer

1958

Einar, brutal son of Ragnar and future heir to his throne, tangles with Eric, a wily slave, for the hand of a beautiful English maiden.

Seconds

Co-Executive Producer

1966

An unhappy middle-aged banker agrees to a procedure that will fake his death and give him a completely new look and identity; one that comes with its own price.

Something Wicked This Way Comes

Executive Producer

1983

In a small American town, a diabolical circus arrives, granting wishes for the townsfolk, but twisted as only the esteemed Mr. Dark can make them. Can two young boys overcome the worst the devil himself can deal out?