René Clair

French film director and screenwriter

René Clair - French film director and screenwriter
Born

November 11th, 1898
126 years ago

Died

March 15th, 1981
44 years ago — 82 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

France

Links & References

A prominent figure in French cinema, this director and screenwriter contributed significantly to the film industry through innovative techniques and narratives. Works include 'Entr'acte' and 'Les Biches', showcasing a blend of surrealism and comedic elements. The director also played a role in advancing sound films, transitioning from silent films to talkies seamlessly. His work is characterized by a unique visual style and a focus on the human experience.

Directed 'Entr'acte'

Directed 'Les Biches'

Pioneered sound in cinema

Other People Born on November 11th

Robert Carr

English engineer and Shadow Chancellor
Born
November 11th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
February 17th, 2012 13 years ago — 95 years old

Engaged in engineering and political service, served as the Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer. Advocated for various fiscal policies within the Labour Party, shaping the economic discourse during tenure. Played a pivotal role in party strategies and governance, influencing economic discussions in the UK.

Continue Reading

Vince Colosimo

Australian actor in film and television
Born
November 11th, 1966 58 years ago

Born in Melbourne, a prominent Australian actor emerged in the film industry in the 1990s. Featured in significant roles in popular films like 'The Wog Boy' and 'Two Hands', gained recognition for performances in various television series, including 'Underbelly' and 'The Great Gatsby'. Earned critical acclaim for a diverse range of characters.

Continue Reading

Tye Sheridan

American actor in 'Ready Player One'
Born
November 11th, 1996 28 years ago

Born in 1996, an American actor and producer rose to prominence through a series of film and television roles. Early work included the film 'The Tree of Life,' which showcased a talent for portraying complex characters. Gained significant recognition for the lead role in 'Ready Player One,' a science fiction film directed by Steven Spielberg. In addition to film, featured in the TV series 'The Tender Bar,' further establishing a career in the entertainment industry. Has also taken on roles in various independent films, contributing to a growing body of work.

Continue Reading

Terrel Bell

U.S. Secretary of Education
Born
November 11th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 75 years old

Served as the 2nd United States Secretary of Education from 1981 to 1983. Focused on education reform and the implementation of various educational policies during the Reagan administration. Bell had previously held the position of Utah State Superintendent of Public Instruction, influencing educational standards and practices at the state level. His efforts included reorganization of educational funding and advocating for school choice.

Continue Reading

Philip McKeon

American actor, best known for 'Alice'
Born
November 11th, 1964 60 years ago
Died
December 10th, 2019 5 years ago — 55 years old

Began acting career at a young age, gaining recognition for portraying Tommy Hyatt in the television series 'Alice' from 1976 to 1985. This role became a defining part of the career. Engaged in various projects beyond television, including voice work and film appearances. Also had a presence in the radio industry, contributing as a host and producer in later years. Continued to participate in the entertainment industry until his passing.

Continue Reading

Jim Peterik

Singer-songwriter and guitarist for Survivor
Born
November 11th, 1950 74 years ago

An American singer-songwriter and guitarist, contributed significantly to the rock music scene starting in the 1960s. Co-founded the band Survivor, which achieved major success in the 1980s with hits like 'Eye of the Tiger,' an anthem that became synonymous with the film 'Rocky III.' Worked as a songwriter and producer for various artists, helping to shape the sound of the era. In addition to Survivor, was involved in several other musical projects and collaborations.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on March 15th

Hubert Aquin

Canadian author and political activist
Born
October 24th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
March 15th, 1977 48 years ago — 47 years old

An influential Canadian author and political activist, contributed significantly to Quebec's literary and political landscape. Played a key role in the Quebec sovereignty movement, aligning literature with activism. Published several important works, with 'Pour en finir avec décembre' recognized for its exploration of identity and politics. Actively engaged in political discourse, advocating for cultural and linguistic rights of Quebecois.

Continue Reading

Ann Sothern

Actress and singer in musical films
Born
January 22nd, 1909 116 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2001 24 years ago — 92 years old

Born in 1909, this American actress achieved prominence in the entertainment industry during the 1930s and 1940s. She starred in a variety of films, including musical comedies that showcased her talents. Sothern gained recognition for her role in the series 'Private Secretary', which aired from 1953 to 1957 and was one of her most popular performances. She also appeared in notable films such as 'The Party's Over' and 'The King Steps Out'. Sothern's singing ability complemented her acting, contributing to her success in musical roles throughout her career. She continued to perform well into the 1980s, showcasing her longevity in the industry.

Continue Reading

James Joseph Sylvester

English mathematician and academic
Born
September 3rd, 1814 211 years ago
Died
March 15th, 1897 128 years ago — 82 years old

A mathematician and academic, contributions included significant work in matrix theory, invariant theory, and group theory. Held a professorship at the University of Oxford and later at Johns Hopkins University. Sylvester was instrumental in establishing the field of matrix algebra and made substantial contributions to number theory. He founded the American Journal of Mathematics and has a lasting legacy in mathematics education.

Continue Reading

Luigi Cherubini

Italian composer of opera and choral works
Born
1760 265 years ago
Died
March 15th, 1842 183 years ago — 82 years old

Active during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, this Italian composer significantly influenced the development of opera and choral music. Cherubini's works include the operas 'Médée' and 'Les Deux Journées', which are recognized for their innovative structure and emotional depth. As a music theorist, contributions to the understanding of composition and harmony shaped musical education in Europe. Cherubini held the position of director at the Conservatoire de Paris, impacting generations of musicians and composers during his tenure.

Continue Reading

Sarla Thakral

Pioneer female pilot in India
Born
1914 111 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2008 17 years ago — 94 years old

The first Indian woman to earn a pilot's license, achieved this milestone in 1936. Received training at the Lahore Flying Club and flew K. L. Malhotra's De Havilland Puss Moth. Maintained a passion for aviation throughout life and inspired future generations of women in aviation. Continued to contribute to the field even after her aviation career ended due to World War II.

Continue Reading

Lester Young

Saxophonist influential in jazz music
Born
August 27th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
March 15th, 1959 66 years ago — 49 years old

An American saxophonist and clarinet player, contributed significantly to the development of jazz music in the early 20th century. Young's unique style, characterized by a smooth, laid-back sound, influenced many musicians. He gained prominence while playing with the Count Basie Orchestra during the 1930s. His work included numerous recordings, both as a solo artist and as a collaborator, showcasing his innovative approach to improvisation. His notable compositions, like 'Lester Leaps In' and 'Savoy Blues,' became jazz standards, helping to shape the genre.

Continue Reading