Luis Bunuel

Date of Birth: February 22, 1900

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: July 29, 1983

Biography

Luis Buñuel Portolés was a Spanish filmmaker who is widely regarded as one of the most significant directors in the history of cinema. Born in Calanda, Spain, Buñuel’s career spanned over five decades, during which he worked in Spain, Mexico, and France. He is often considered the father of cinematic Surrealism, known for his innovative approach to narrative and visual storytelling. Buñuel’s films often explore themes of religion, politics, and the absurdity of human existence. Some of his most acclaimed works include “Un Chien Andalou” (1929), “The Exterminating Angel” (1962), and “Belle de Jour” (1967). His collaboration with Salvador Dalí on “Un Chien Andalou” and “L’Age d’Or” (1930) marked the beginning of his illustrious career, earning him a reputation as a provocateur and visionary. Buñuel continued to push the boundaries of cinema until his death, leaving behind a legacy that influences filmmakers to this day.

5 Interesting Facts about Luis Bunuel

1. Luis Buñuel’s first film, “Un Chien Andalou,” was co-written with Salvador Dalí and features one of the most iconic scenes in cinema history: a razor slicing through an eyeball.

2. Despite his critical stance on religion, Buñuel was educated by Jesuits and maintained a complex relationship with Catholicism throughout his life.

3. Buñuel won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film for “The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie” in 1972.

4. He was a close friend of Federico García Lorca and Salvador Dalí during his time at the Residencia de Estudiantes in Madrid.

5. Buñuel was exiled from Spain during the Spanish Civil War and spent much of his career working in Mexico and France.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Luis Bunuel

1. “Thank God I’m an atheist.”

2. “I’m still an atheist, thank God.”

3. “The decline of the aperitif may well be one of the most depressing phenomena of our time.”

4. “Imagination, memory, and dreams are the most powerful forces in human existence.”

5. “A paranoiac, like a poet, is born, not made.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Luis Buñuel’s highest net worth achieved is estimated to be around $2 million at the time of his death.

Children

Luis Buñuel had two children with his wife, Jeanne Rucar: 1. Juan Luis Buñuel – Born in 1934, Juan Luis Buñuel followed in his father’s footsteps and became a filmmaker. 2. Rafael Buñuel – Born in 1940, Rafael Buñuel pursued a career in television production.