Important People of the 1950's

The 1950’s were a period which witnessed a boom in the entertainment industry with many other significant changes as well. The 1950’s were also a time when many people made an important mark during this period. There were new genres of music being developed and education played an important role. Let’s take a look at some of the important people of the 1950’s who made a significant contribution in their respective fields.

Important People of the 1950’s:

Marlon Brando:
This hunky American actor (April 3 1924 - July 1, 2004) wowed millions and was best known as the young sex symbol of this period. Marlon Brando made his first strong impression in the 1950’s. His performance as Stanley Kowalski in 1951 fetched him an Academy Award for the Best Actor. This talented actor’s first five films established him in the film industry. He also had a large fan following due to his rebellious portrayal as Johnny Strabler in ‘The Wild One’ (1953). He created quite a flutter due to his good looks and his raw image caused millions of young girls to swoon, which resulted in large sales of the tickets for all his movies! Men emulated him by sporting leather jackets, which Marlon Brando was best known for! The turning point in his career happened when he portrayed Vito Corleone in ‘The Godfather’. Marlon Brando was also an activist and was associated with many social issues concerned with the society.

Audrey Hepburn:
Amongst the important people of the 1950’s, Audrey Hepburn (May 4, 1929 - January 20, 1993) was known for her highly fashionable image and also as a true humanitarian. She floored many with her performance in ‘Roman Holiday’ and was awarded the Golden Globe Award for the Best Motion Picture Actress and also the Academy Award for this movie. She was known for her attractive persona, which led to many of her male co-stars to form a deep bond with her. Amongst her many admirers was one of Hollywood’s hottest actors known for his striking good looks-Gregory Peck who remained as her life long friend. This adorable actress wowed millions with her gorgeous looks and power packed performances.

Alfred Hitchcock:
Alfred Hitchcock (August 13, 1899 - April 29, 1980) was known for his expertise in Hollywood suspense thrillers. He was also known as the most successful directors during this period. He was also one of the most important people in the 1950’s. The 1950’s were considered to be his peak years. ‘Dial M for Murder’ was one of his most well known films. For this film, he used the technique of 3D cinematography although the film was not released initially in this format. ‘North by Northwest’, ‘Psycho’ and ‘The Birds’ was also considered to be some of Hitchcock’s very best works. Another characteristic feature about his films were the cameo appearances by Hitchcock himself! He would appear for a brief moment in his films. He could be seen standing in front of an apartment or sometimes crossing the street. He was known to enjoy all sorts of technical challenges in filmmaking.

Raj Kapoor:
Ranbir Raj Kapoor (December 14, 1924 - June 2, 1988) had a very significant role to play in the Indian film industry also referred to as ‘Bollywood’. He appeared in the film ‘Inquilab’ in 1935 for the first time. At the age of 24, Raj Kapoor had already established himself with his own studio named R.K. films. His main image on the big screen was often as a tramp, which was closely inspired by Charlie Chaplin’s on screen image. He had a number of hits in the 1950’s such as ‘Barsaat’, ‘Awaara’, ‘Shree 420’ and ‘Chori Chori’. Raj Kapoor was also known as the Charlie Chaplin of Indian Cinema. Yet another notable characteristic of all Raj Kapoor films was the melodious music. He was known for his elaborate sets and dramatic compositions in all the movies.

Sophia Loren:
Sophia Loren (September 20, 1934) was known as a sex symbol and was an extremely popular Italian actress of her time, with drop dead gorgeous looks. Her career graph scaled new heights in the late 1950’s. Her films such as ‘Boy on a Dolphin’ and ‘The Pride and the Passion’ created quite a stir. She also bagged a five-picture contract with Paramount Pictures and this is when she established herself as a dramatic as well as a comedic actress. Sophia Loren was also known for her lavish costumes! This charming actress thus has become an iconic symbol for women all over the world!

These are a few of the many important people of the 1950’s. They created a unique identity for themselves and became a role model for people all across the globe!