James Mason

Known For

Acting

Born

May 15, 1909

Died

Jul 27, 1984

Place of Birth

Huddersfield, Yorkshire, England, UK

Credits

187 titles

James Mason

Biography

James Neville Mason (known as James Mason; May 15, 1909 – July 27, 1984) was an English actor who made a significant impact on both British and American cinema. His acting career began in the 1930s, where he initially gained recognition for his stage performances in London's West End. He made his film debut in 1935 with the British film "Late Extra," marking the start of his illustrious on-screen journey. Throughout his career, Mason showcased his exceptional acting abilities, often portraying complex and morally ambiguous characters. His commanding presence, distinctive voice, and versatile range allowed him to effortlessly transition between genres, from dramas to thrillers and even period pieces. One of Mason's most acclaimed performances came in 1945 when he starred as the troubled and enigmatic Johnny McQueen in the film "Odd Man Out." His portrayal of the wounded Irish nationalist earned him widespread praise and established him as a respected leading man. Mason's notable filmography includes memorable roles in films such as "The Wicked Lady" (1945), "Pandora and the Flying Dutchman" (1951), "A Star Is Born" (1954), "North by Northwest" (1959), and "Lolita" (1962). His ability to bring depth, sophistication, and complexity to his characters captivated audiences and garnered critical acclaim. Beyond his film career, Mason also dabbled in producing and directing. He co-produced and starred in the acclaimed film "A Star Is Born," showcasing his multifaceted talent and creative vision. Throughout his life, Mason was recognized with numerous awards and nominations, including three Academy Award nominations for Best Actor. He was highly regarded by his peers and critics alike for his impeccable craft and his ability to elevate any production he was a part of.

Known For

Filmography

2020

Kubrick by Kubrick

Self (archive footage)

Movie
2019

Sid & Judy

Self (archive footage)

Movie
2019

Churchill and the Movie Mogul

Self (archive footage)

Movie
2016

Bob the Builder: Building Sky High

Writer

Movie
2013

Talking Pictures

Self (archive footage)

Tv
2012

Lasseter's Bones

Archival Footage

Movie
2011

Passion & Poetry: Sam Peckinpah's War

In Memory Of

Movie
2009

Hollywood Singing and Dancing: A Musical History - The 1950s: The Golden Era of the Musical

Self (archive)

Movie
2000

Sir John Mills' Moving Memories

Self (archive footage)

Movie
1995

Roger Moore: A Matter of Class

Self (archive footage)

Movie
1991

Halloween Monster Bash

Stephen Deremid (archive footage)

Movie
1985

The Assisi Underground

Bishop Nicolini

Movie
1985

A.D.

Tiberius

Tv
1985

The Shooting Party

Sir Randolph Nettleby

Movie
1984

Dr. Fischer of Geneva

Dr. Fischer

Movie
1984

George Washington

Gen. Edward Braddock

Tv
1984

House Without Foundation

Self - Narrator

Movie
1984

James Mason: The Star They Loved to Hate

Self

Movie
1983

Don't Eat the Pictures: Sesame Street at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

Demon

Movie
1983

Yellowbeard

Captain Hughes

Movie
1983

Group Madness

Self

Movie
1983

Unknown Chaplin

Narrator (voice)

Tv
1983

Alexandre

The Father

Movie
1983

The Popes and Their Art

Presentor

Movie
1982

The Verdict

Ed Concannon

Movie
1982

A Dangerous Summer

George Engels

Movie
1982

The Glory of the Garden

Narrator

Movie
1982

Night of 100 Stars

Self

Movie
1982

Evil Under the Sun

Odell Gardener

Movie
1982

Ivanhoe

Isaac of York

Movie
1982

The Making of Agatha Christie's 'Evil Under the Sun'

Self / Odell Gardener

Movie
1981

The Search for Alexander the Great

Narrator

Tv
1980

North Sea Hijack

Admiral Brindsen

Movie
1980

Hollywood

Self - Narrator

Tv
1979

Salem's Lot

Richard K. Straker

Tv
1979

Bloodline

Sir Alec Nichols

Movie
1979

The Passage

Professor Bergson

Movie
1979

Murder by Decree

Dr. Watson

Movie
1978

The Boys from Brazil

Eduard Seibert

Movie
1978

Heaven Can Wait

Mr. Jordan

Movie
1978

The Water Babies

Mr. Grimes / Voice of Killer Shark

Movie
1977

Homage to Chagall: The Colours of Love

Narrator - English version

Movie
1977

Jesus of Nazareth

Joseph of Arimathea

Tv
1977

Cross of Iron

Oberst Brandt

Movie
1976

Voyage of the Damned

Dr. Juan Remos

Movie
1976

Origins of the Mafia

Vianisi

Tv
1976

Bob Hope's World of Comedy

Self (archive footage)

Movie
1976

People of the Wind

Jafar Qoli (voice)

Movie
1976

Fear in the City

Chief of Police

Movie
1975

The Flower in His Mouth

Avv. Antonio Bellocampo

Movie