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Photo of Josef von Sternberg

Josef von Sternberg

Director, Writer, Producer, Editor, Composer, Actor, Additional Credits
Born May 29, 1894Died November 22, 1969 (75 years)
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.

Movies & Shows on Plex

  • The Last Command

Known For

  • The Blue Angel
  • Shanghai Express
  • Morocco
  • The Scarlet Empress
  • The Devil Is a Woman
  • Blonde Venus
  • The Docks of New York
  • The Last Command
  • Underworld
  • Dishonored
  • The Shanghai Gesture
  • Jet Pilot
  • Duel in the Sun
  • Crime and Punishment
  • Macao
  • It
  • Anatahan
  • The Great Waltz
  • An American Tragedy
  • Thunderbolt
  • Children of Divorce

Filmography

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