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Niels ArestrupFrench theater, film and television actor, screenwriter and director
Date of Birth: 08.02.1949
Country:  France |
Content:
Niels Arestrup: A Renowned Figure in French Cinema, Theatre, and Television
Early Life and Career
On February 8, 1949, Niels Arestrup was born in Montreuil, a suburb of Paris. The son of factory workers, his father, Knud, had fled Denmark during World War II and planned to emigrate to the United States. However, he met and married Ivonne, a Frenchwoman.
Arestrup exhibited a rebellious streak, skipping school and failing to attend college. At 19, he began seeking odd jobs. During this period, he heard about a course taught by Tania Balachova, where he honed his acting skills.
Theatre and Stage
Arestrup made a significant impact on the French theatre scene, notably portraying Raskolnikov in a production of "Crime and Punishment." He founded the Théâtre-école du Passage in the late 1980s, offering training not only in acting but also in choreography, dance, acrobatics, fencing, and English. He remained dedicated to this institution for a decade.
His impressive theatrical repertoire includes performances in classical plays such as "The Cherry Orchard," "Three Sisters," "The Seagull," "Orphans," "Don Juan, or The Stone Guest," and "The Misanthrope."
Film Career
Arestrup's film debut came in 1973. He initially played episodic and supporting roles in independent films, often portraying complex and villainous characters. His breakthrough performance arrived in the 2005 crime thriller "The Beat That My Heart Skipped." He garnered critical acclaim and a César Award for his portrayal of Robert Seyr.
Arestrup received a second César for his role in "A Prophet," which earned the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival. He also won a César for his comedic turn in "Quai d'Orsay."
Over his five decades in cinema, Arestrup has collaborated on international projects, including "By the Sea" with Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt.
Personal Life
Arestrup prioritized his career over his personal life, and it was not until 2001 that he met French actress and playwright Isabelle Le Nouvel. They married in 2012 and welcomed twins the same year.
Recent Projects
In 2023, Arestrup starred in the musical biopic "Divertimento," portraying German-Romanian conductor Sergiu Celibidache. He also appeared in the drama series "Villa Caprice," playing lawyer Luc Germon.
