This Italian actress was a renowned beauty and talented performer who appeared in over 50 films, including classics like "Day for Night" and "Brother Sun, Sister Moon". She was known for her striking features and versatility on screen.
Valentina Cortese was an Italian film and theatre actress who left an indelible mark on the cinematic world with her captivating performances in over 50 films and numerous stage productions. With a career spanning five decades, she worked with some of the most renowned directors of her time, including Michelangelo Antonioni, Federico Fellini, and Franco Zeffirelli.
Born on January 1, 1923, in Milan, Italy, Cortese was raised by her single mother in the countryside before being sent to live with her maternal grandparents in Turin at the age of seven. It was here that she discovered her passion for the performing arts, eventually enrolling at the National Academy of Dramatic Arts (Accademia d'arte drammatica) in Rome.
Cortese's film debut came in 1941 with a small role in Lorizzonte dipinto, followed by more prominent roles in Roma Città Libera (1946) and Les Misérables (1948). Her breakthrough came with her appearance in the British production The Glass Mountain (1949), which led to numerous roles in international productions, including Thieves Highway (1949) and The House on Telegraph Hill (1951).
Cortese's collaboration with directors from around the world continued to grow, with notable films including The Barefoot Contessa (1954) and Le Amiche (1955), for which she won the Nastro d'Argento for Best Supporting Actress. Her work with French New Wave director François Truffaut in Day for Night (1973) earned her a BAFTA nomination for Best Actress.
Cortese married actor Richard Basehart in 1951, with whom she had a son, Jackie. The couple divorced in 1960, and Basehart returned to the United States, leaving Cortese to raise their son alone. She continued to act in films and television, eventually slowing down in the 1990s. Cortese passed away on July 10, 2019, at the age of 96, leaving behind a legacy as one of Italy's most beloved actresses.
Throughout her career, Cortese worked with some of the most influential directors of her time, bringing depth and nuance to her characters. Her contributions to Italian neorealism and the French New Wave movements have had a lasting impact on the film industry. As a testament to her enduring legacy, Cortese's performances continue to inspire new generations of actors and filmmakers.
Born in 1922
A renowned Italian actor, director, and screenwriter who brought complexity and nuance to his characters, starring in over 100 films and winning numerous awards. He's a cultural icon in Italy, symbolizing the country's cinematic golden age.
Born in 1921
Austrian-Italian actress and singer who starred in over 100 films, including Hitchcock's "The Paradine Case" and "The Third Man", with a distinctive, emotive voice and striking features.
Born in 1900
Pioneering filmmaker behind neorealist classics, exploring Italy's post-war struggles and societal changes through poignant, humanist storytelling.
Born in 1924
A renowned actor and singer, starring in over 150 films, including iconic Italian neorealist classics and international productions, earning him numerous awards and nominations.
91 Years Old
Academy Award-winning actress renowned for her striking beauty and powerful performances in iconic films like "Two Women" and "Marriage Italian Style".
98 Years Old
Italian actress and photographer, iconic beauty and sex symbol of the 1950s and 1960s, starring in films like "Fanfan la Tulipe" and "Buona Sera, Mrs. Campbell".
Born in 1915
A legendary actress who captivated audiences with her natural, emotional performances in films like "Casablanca" and "Autumn Sonata", earning her three Academy Awards.
94 Years Old
A stunning Swedish-Italian model and actress who gained international fame for her iconic roles in Federico Fellini's films, particularly in "La Dolce Vita". She's a symbol of 1960s glamour and sensuality.
