Amidou

Amidou was an American actor best known for his roles in ‘Rules of Engagement,’ ‘Ronin,’ and ‘The Sorcerer.’ He had a long and varied career spanning nearly five decades, primarily in French films, but also included work in Morocco and American cinema.

Personal and Family Life

Amidou Ben Messaoud was born on August 2, 1935, in Rabat, Morocco. He was the son of a justice of the peace and had a family connection to the film industry, which allowed him insight into cinema from an early age. He pursued drama at the Conservatoire de Paris, where he impressed directors and quickly began his acting career.

Career

Throughout his career, Amidou often collaborated with prominent French directors, such as Claude Lelouch and Jean Genet. Despite being typecast in certain roles, he showcased his versatility, acting in both comedic and serious parts. His most notable works include appearances in films like ‘La Vie, l’Amour, la Mort’ and ‘Smic, Smac, Smoc.’ Additionally, he received awards for his performances, highlighting his talent and dedication to acting.

Death and Legacy

Amidou passed away on September 19, 2013, in Clichy, France, due to cancer. His contributions to cinema, especially as a pioneer African actor in French film, have left a lasting impact on the industry. He is remembered not just for his roles, but for breaking barriers for North African actors in film.

Filmography

Title Release Date Character
Rosebud 1975-03-24 Kirkbane
Rules of Engagement 2000-04-07 Dr. Ahmar
Hot Chocolate 1992-01-01 Beauregard
La vie, l’amour, la mort 1969-01-29 François Toledo
Une fille et des fusils 1965-06-01 Amidou
Ronin 1998-09-25 Man at Exchange
Comme les 5 doigts de la main 2010-04-28 Lakdar
La Chamade 1968-10-30 Etienne
La Belle Histoire 1992-03-18 Le berger
Sorcerer 1977-06-24 Kassem / ‘Martinez’
Occhio alla penna 1981-05-14 Girolamo / Eagle Eye
Fleur d’oseille 1967-09-22 Francis, le porte-flingue d’Albert Roza
And Now… Ladies and Gentlemen… 2002-05-29 l’inspecteur de police
La Valise 1973-10-12 Abdul
Vivre pour vivre 1967-09-13 photographe
La punition 1973-06-28 Raymond
Le Voyou 1970-11-20 Bill
La poudre d’escampette 1971-09-01 Ali
Aïcha : Vacances infernales 2012-06-20 M. Bouamaza
Adieu Blaireau 1985-01-30 Poupée
للا حبّي 1996-12-15
شمس الربيع 1969-01-02
Brigade antigangs 1966-08-18 Nez Cassé
Aïcha 2009-05-13 M. Bouamaza
Aïcha : Job à tout prix 2011-03-02 Mr. Bouamaza
Aïcha : La grande débrouille 2011-09-07 M. Bouamaza
Champagne amer 1986-01-01 Slim
Hideous Kinky 1998-11-17 Sufi Sheikh
Comptes à rebours 1970-01-29 Macias
Smic, Smac, Smoc 1971-09-01 Robert ‘Smoc’
Heaven’s Doors 2006-01-01
Spy Game 2001-11-18 Dr. Ahmed
Une histoire d’amour 2002-01-01
Le propre de l’homme 1961-09-30
Escape to Victory 1981-06-17 André
Ali Baba et les 40 Voleurs 2007-11-10 Le Caliphe
Le Grand Pardon II 1992-12-09 Si Ali
أرڭانة 2007-01-01 Hamou
هنا ولهيه 2004-10-02
La Nuit porte jarretelles