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Peter LorreActor
Date of Birth: 26.06.1904
Country: ![]() |
Content:
- Biography of Peter Lorre
- Early Career and International Recognition
- Career in Hollywood
- Later Years and Legacy
Biography of Peter Lorre
Peter Lorre was born as Ladislav Loewenstein, a peculiar little man with a moon-shaped face, bulging eyes, and a lack of teeth. He was one of the finest character actors to ever work in Hollywood.

Early Career and International Recognition
He made a powerful impact with his performance in the film "M" (1931) directed by Fritz Lang in Germany, where he played the role of a pathetic child murderer. This role showcased his unforgettable acting skills and brought him international fame. Lorre fled Germany in the early 1930s and appeared in both British and American films, including two films directed by Alfred Hitchcock: "The Man Who Knew Too Much" (1934) and "Secret Agent" (1936). His colorful portrayal of a deranged doctor in "Mad Love" (1935) propelled him into Hollywood and he became a sensation in the horror film genre.
Career in Hollywood
Throughout his career, Lorre played notable roles in cheap films, some of which were hidden gems. In 1941, he delivered a mesmerizing performance as the dark and sophisticated Joel Cairo in John Huston's adaptation of "The Maltese Falcon." He also shared memorable moments with Humphrey Bogart in "Casablanca" (1942). Lorre became known for his caricature-like acting and unmatched facial expressions, which made him a comic genius in films like "Arsenic and Old Lace" (1944) and "My Favorite Brunette" (1947). He was a delight in the parody film "Beat the Devil" (1954), directed by John Huston.
Later Years and Legacy
In 1951, Lorre returned to Germany to write, direct, and act in rare but high-quality films. He aged significantly during the 1950s, but continued to appear in movies such as "The Congo Crossing" (1956) and "The Big Circus" (1959). He was a frequent guest on television, appearing in notable shows like the live production of Ian Fleming's "Casino Royale" in 1954 and the famous series "Alfred Hitchcock Presents." Lorre ended his film career with Boris Karloff and Vincent Price in "The Raven" (1963) and "The Comedy of Terrors" (1964), respectively, where he showcased his comedic talents. His portrayal of a half-man, half-raven character in "The Raven" gained him a whole new generation of fans.
Peter Lorre's talent and unique presence made him one of the most remarkable actors of his time. His contributions to the film industry, particularly in the horror and thriller genres, continue to be celebrated and cherished by audiences worldwide.