A prolific German actor who appeared in over 100 films and TV shows, including classics like "Casablanca" and "The Twilight Zone".
Curt Bois is best remembered for his iconic performances as the pickpocket in the classic 1942 film Casablanca and the poet Homer in Wim Wenders' 1987 film Wings of Desire. With a career spanning over eight decades, Bois established himself as a versatile actor, performing in theatre, cabaret, musicals, silent films, and talkies.
Bois was born Kurt Boas on April 5, 1901, in Berlin, Germany, to a German Jewish family. He began acting at a young age, becoming one of the film world's first child actors, with a role in the 1907 short film Bauernhaus und Grafenschlo. By 1909, he played the title role in Der Kleine Detektiv (The Little Detective).
Bois performed under the renowned director Max Reinhardt and found success in 1928 in a Viennese stage production of Charleys Aunt at the Josefstadt Theater. He became a successful character comic, and for a while, film studios tried to make him into a German Harold Lloyd. However, in 1934, institutionalized Anti-Semitism forced Bois to leave his home in Nazi Germany for the United States.
In the United States, Bois found work on stage on Broadway. By 1937, he had made his way to Hollywood and began acting in films, including his notable role in Casablanca. He had a successful supporting role in Caught (1949), starring Robert Ryan, Barbara Bel Geddes, and James Mason.
Wings of Desire, portraying the poet Homer.
Curt Bois' remarkable career spanned over 80 years, with a diverse range of performances in theatre, film, and cabaret. He remains an inspiration to actors and artists, demonstrating the power of resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity.
Curt Bois passed away on December 25, 1991, leaving behind a rich legacy of performances that continue to captivate audiences today.
Born in 1901
A glamorous and androgynous Hollywood icon, known for her sultry voice, striking features, and trailblazing gender-bending style on screen. She mesmerized audiences with her unique blend of European sophistication and American charm.
Born in 1899
Iconic leading man of classic Hollywood cinema, starring in timeless films like Casablanca and The African Queen, embodying a tough, charismatic on-screen presence.
Born in 1904
A versatile actor and singer who brought iconic characters to life in classic films like Casablanca and Arsenic and Old Lace, with a distinctive voice and eerie on-screen presence.
Born in 1905
A legendary actress who captivated audiences with her iconic performances on the silver screen, earning her the title of Hollywood's first female superstar.
Born in 1890
Pioneering filmmaker behind iconic sci-fi and noir classics, influencing generations of directors with his visual style and storytelling. 82
Born in 1906
Academy Award-winning filmmaker behind iconic movies like "Some Like It Hot" and "Sunset Boulevard", known for his witty dialogue and genre-bending storytelling.
Born in 1892
A pioneering filmmaker who charmed audiences with sophisticated comedies and witty romantic dramas, often blending satire and social commentary.
Born in 1907
Academy Award-winning filmmaker behind iconic movies like "High Noon" and "From Here to Eternity", known for his gripping storytelling and nuanced character portrayals.
