Josef von Sternberg's photo

Josef von Sternberg

Born: 1894-05-29 in Vienna, Austria

Died: 1969-11-22

Known For: Directing

Biography

Josef von Sternberg, born Jonas Sternberg (29 May 1894 – 22 December 1969) was an Austrian-born film director and is among the few whose career successfully spanned the transition from the silent to the sound era. He is considered one of the earliest 'auteur' filmmakers, having filled many other roles on his films including those of cinematographer, screenwriter, and editor. Sternberg's style influenced later directors, particularly those of the film noir period. He is particularly noted for his distinctive mise en scène, use of lighting and soft lens, and collaboration with actress Marlene Dietrich. Among his most important works are The Blue Angel (1930), Morocco (1930), Shanghai Express (1932) and The Scarlet Empress (1934). Andrew Sarris in his influential book of film criticism The American Cinema: Directors and Directions 1929–1968 included him in the "pantheon" of the 14 greatest film directors who had worked in the United States.

Filmography

1969

1957

1953

  • Anatahan as Narrator (voice) (uncredited)

1952

1951

1946

1944

1941

1940

1939

1938

1937

1936

1935

1934

1932

1931

1930

1929

1928

1927

1926

1925

1924

1922

1921

1919

1917

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