Louis Malle

Date of Birth: October 30, 1932

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: November 23, 1995

Biography

Louis Malle was a renowned French film director, screenwriter, and producer, known for his versatile and often controversial work. Born in Thumeries, Nord, France, Malle initially studied political science before switching to film studies at the Institut des Hautes Études Cinématographiques (IDHEC) in Paris. His career began with a bang when he co-directed the underwater documentary “The Silent World” (1956) with Jacques Cousteau, which won the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival. Malle made a successful transition to feature films with “Elevator to the Gallows” (1958), a film noir that showcased his flair for suspense and introduced the world to the ethereal music of Miles Davis. His next films, “The Lovers” (1958) and “Zazie in the Metro” (1960), further established him as a bold and innovative filmmaker. Throughout his career, Malle tackled a wide range of subjects, from the taboo love story in “The Lovers” to the exploration of Nazi occupation in “Lacombe, Lucien” (1974). His American period included critically acclaimed films like “Atlantic City” (1980) and “My Dinner with Andre” (1981). Malle’s work often blurred the lines between documentary and fiction, and he was known for his willingness to take risks and provoke thought.

5 Interesting Facts about Louis Malle

1. Louis Malle won the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival for his underwater documentary “The Silent World” in 1956.

2. He was married to actress Candice Bergen from 1980 until his death in 1995.

3. Malle’s film “Au Revoir les Enfants” (1987) is a semi-autobiographical account of his childhood experiences during World War II.

4. He collaborated with jazz musician Miles Davis, who composed the score for his film “Elevator to the Gallows.”

5. Malle’s film “Atlantic City” (1980) was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Louis Malle

1. “I tend to think that I am too skeptical, too critical, too fatalistic, and that I am not enough of an idealist.”

2. “You have to be determined and persistent to succeed in life.”

3. “The real story is in the nuance, not in the loud, obvious events.”

4. “I make pictures for myself, and if the audience likes them, that’s fine. If not, that’s their problem.”

5. “A film is never really good unless the camera is an eye in the head of a poet.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Louis Malle’s net worth was estimated to be around $10 million.

Children

Louis Malle had two children. His daughter, Chloe Malle, was born in 1985 from his marriage to Candice Bergen. He also had a son, Manuel Cuotemoc Malle, born in 1971, from his relationship with actress Alexandra Stewart.