Frank Capra (Francesco Rosario Capra, 18 May 1897 Bisacquino, Italia - 3 September 1991, La Quinta, California, USA)
Film Career. Frank Capra is one of the most acclaimed and influential directors in Hollywood history. His career produced numerous masterpieces that touched the hearts of audiences.
Early Life. Capra emigrated to the United States at a young age and began working in the film industry as a gagman and director of silent shorts. His talent led him to direct successful films in the silent era.
Personal Life. Capra was married for over fifty years to Lucille Warner. The couple had three children.
Important Films:
"It's a Wonderful Life" (1946): This classic Christmas film, starring James Stewart as George Bailey, explores the meaning of life and the power of humanity. The story follows George as he discovers the preciousness of his life after an encounter with an angel.
"Arsenic and Old Lace" (1944): A dark comedy that blends humor and murder. The story revolves around an eccentric family hiding dark secrets in their home.
"It Happened One Night" (1934): One of the early successful romantic comedies, starring Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert. The film tells the story of a young heiress on the run from an arranged marriage and an unemployed journalist who helps her.
"Mr. Smith Goes to Washington" (1939): Starring James Stewart, this film follows the story of an honest and idealistic rookie senator who battles political corruption in Washington. The film is a tribute to democracy and integrity.
Filmography
Fultah Fisher's Boarding House (1922)
The Strong Man (1926)
Long Pants (1927)
For the Love of Mike (1927)
That Certain Thing (1928)
So This Is Love? (1928)
The Matinee Idol (1928)
The Power of the Press (1928)
Say It with Sables (1928)
The Way of the Strong (1928)
Submarine (1928)
The Younger Generation (1929)
Flight (1929)
Ladies of Leisure (1930)
Rain or Shine (1930)
Dirigible (1931)
The Miracle Woman (1931)
Platinum Blonde (1931)
Forbidden (1932)
American Madness (1932)
The Bitter Tea of General Yen (1933)
Lady for a Day (1933)
It Happened One Night (1934)
Broadway Bill (1934)
Mr. Deeds Goes to Town (1936)
Lost Horizon (1937)
You Can't Take It with You (1938)
Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939)
Meet John Doe (1941)
Arsenic and Old Lace (1944)
It's a Wonderful Life (1946)
State of the Union (1948)
Riding High (1950)
Here Comes the Groom (1951)
A Hole in the Head (1959)
Pocketful of Miracles (1961)
Awards
Academy Awards (Oscars):
- Best Director: Won for "It Happened One Night" (1934), "Mr. Deeds Goes to Town" (1936), and "You Can't Take It with You" (1938).
He received other nominations for directing.
Golden Globe Awards:
- Cecil B. DeMille Award: Won in 1952 for his outstanding contribution to the entertainment industry.
Directors Guild of America Awards (DGA):
- DGA Lifetime Achievement Award: Won for his significant contribution to film directing.