Peter Lorre was a Hungarian-born actor, first in Europe and later in the United States. He began his stage career in Vienna, in the Austro-Hungarian Empire, before moving to Germany where he worked first on the stage, then in film in Berlin in the late 1920s and early 1930s.
Peter Lorre was a talented Hungarian-American actor known for his distinctive voice, unique appearance, and memorable performances in classic films. He was born as László Löwenstein on June 26, 1904, in Rózsahegy, Austria-Hungary (now Ruzomberok, Slovakia), and passed away on March 23, 1964. Lorre’s career spanned several decades, and he became known for his versatile acting abilities and his contributions to the film industry. Here are some key highlights of Peter Lorre’s career:
- Early Career: Peter Lorre began his acting career in the theater in Vienna, Austria, during the 1920s. He gained recognition for his stage performances and made his film debut in the German silent film “M” (1931), directed by Fritz Lang.
- Iconic Role in “M”: Lorre’s portrayal of Hans Beckert, a child murderer, in Fritz Lang’s “M” is considered one of his most iconic roles. The film is a classic of early German cinema and established Lorre as a notable actor.
- Hollywood Debut: Lorre moved to Hollywood in the early 1930s and began working in the American film industry. He continued to collaborate with Fritz Lang, appearing in “Mad Love” (1935).
- “The Maltese Falcon”: Peter Lorre played the role of Joel Cairo in the film adaptation of Dashiell Hammett’s novel “The Maltese Falcon” (1941), directed by John Huston. His performance alongside Humphrey Bogart and Sydney Greenstreet is memorable.
- “Casablanca”: He had a supporting role as Ugarte in the classic film “Casablanca” (1942), starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman.
- Film Noir Roles: Lorre became known for his appearances in film noir classics such as “The Mask of Dimitrios” (1944) and “The Verdict” (1946).
- Collaborations with Vincent Price: He starred alongside Vincent Price in several horror and suspense films, including “The Raven” (1963) and “Tales of Terror” (1962).
- Radio and Television: In addition to his film career, Peter Lorre also worked in radio and television, including hosting the radio series “Mystery in the Air” and making guest appearances on various TV shows.
- Personal Life: Lorre was known for his distinctive voice, his ability to portray complex and sometimes sinister characters, and his impact on the horror and suspense genres.
- Legacy: Peter Lorre’s legacy in the world of cinema is celebrated for his unique talent and his contributions to film noir and the horror genre. His distinctive voice and on-screen presence continue to captivate audiences.
Peter Lorre’s performances in classic films, especially his roles in “M” and “The Maltese Falcon,” are regarded as some of the most iconic and influential in the history of cinema. His contributions to the art of acting and his impact on the film industry continue to be celebrated by film enthusiasts and historians.