Albert Finney
Albert Finney: A Legendary Actor's Enduring Legacy
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Albert Finney was a renowned British actor born on May 9, 1930, in Salford, Lancashire. He is often referred to by his full name or affectionately as "Albie."
Birth and Death Dates
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Finney passed away on February 7, 2011, at the age of 82.
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Albert Finney was a British national, primarily known for his work in film, television, and theater. He was an accomplished actor, director, and producer who captivated audiences with his unique talent.
Early Life and Background
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Finney grew up in a working-class family in Salford. His father, Albert Jnr., was a bookmaker's accountant, while his mother, Margaret (née Finney), managed a shop. The young Albert attended the prestigious Park Road Junior School, where he discovered his passion for acting at the age of 10. He later joined the church choir and developed a love for music.
Finney's early life was marked by tragedy when his father passed away due to cancer in 1946. This event had a profound impact on Finney, who went on to dedicate himself to his craft as an actor. After completing his education at Tylers Croft Secondary Modern School, he enrolled at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in 1954.
Major Accomplishments
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Finney's extensive career was punctuated by numerous accolades and recognitions:
He won two BAFTA Awards for Best Actor: one for _Saturday Night and Sunday Morning_ (1960) and the other for _Tom Jones_ (1963).
Finney received an Academy Award nomination for his portrayal of Tom Jones in the 1963 film adaptation.
In addition to his individual honors, he was part of the ensemble cast that won a BAFTA Award for Best Film for _The Dresser_ (1983).Notable Works or Actions
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Finney's illustrious career spanned over five decades and included:
Saturday Night and Sunday Morning (1960): Finney's breakthrough role as Arthur Seaton, a working-class man struggling with social norms.
Tom Jones (1963): He played the titular character in this classic period drama.
Charlie Chaplin (1992): Finney directed and starred in this biographical drama about the life of Charlie Chaplin.
The Gathering Storm (2002): He portrayed Winston Churchill's friend, Clement Attlee, in this television film.Impact and Legacy
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Finney's impact on the entertainment industry is undeniable. His versatility as an actor enabled him to excel in a wide range of genres, from drama to comedy. He worked with some of the most renowned directors, including Tony Richardson and Steven Spielberg.
As a director, Finney was known for his attention to detail and commitment to authenticity. His passion for storytelling inspired generations of actors and filmmakers. Finney's legacy extends beyond his impressive filmography; he remains an icon in British cinema, celebrated for his dedication to his craft and his unwavering commitment to excellence.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Albert Finney is widely quoted and remembered for his:
Unique talent: His versatility as a performer allowed him to excel in diverse roles.
Dedication to authenticity: Finney's commitment to accuracy and realism in his performances set him apart from other actors of his time.
Enduring impact on British cinema: His contributions to the industry have left an indelible mark, inspiring future generations of actors and filmmakers.
Finney's remarkable life and career serve as a testament to the power of dedication and hard work. As we reflect on his legacy, it is clear that Albert Finney remains an iconic figure in the world of cinema, leaving behind a lasting impact that continues to inspire audiences worldwide.
Quotes by Albert Finney
Albert Finney's insights on:
I’m not bothered by the paparazzi and I don’t feel hemmed in, I’ve never felt that. My youth, mind you, there wasn’t quite the same attention to celebrities as there is now, but I’ve never felt that.
Well, I’ve always thought that my career was in England, really. I used to do more in the theatre, and I felt that I should be there. It’s not far is it? It’s amazing the way that special FX have taken a quantum leap in what they’re capable of doing.
There might’ve been wires, but I have this ability to make myself light. Well you know what, in ballet, when you kind of lift yourself here, it’s all up in the head.
I’m doing another Churchill. I did a Churchill for HBO and that was up to 1939 and there’s talk of the war years. They were going to do it this fall, but the script wasn’t going to be ready.
I don’t think that we necessarily lie. I mean, we make our living by pretending that we’re someone else. I don’t tell tall tales. I always tell the truth.
It’s true that old actors don’t die, their parts get smaller. You’re less likely to get the part, many parts, if you’re playing people your age as opposed to people who are younger. There are fewer parts around.
We’re given the springboard of the text, a plane ticket, told to report to Alabama, and there’s a group of people all ready to make a film and it’s a marvelous life.
I was in London. It’s a long way to go for a very long party, sitting there for six hours not having a cigarette or a drink. It’s a waste of time.