Maria Falconetti was a French-American actress who is best known for her roles in “The Passion of Joan of Arc,” “The Life of a Woman,” and “La Dame aux camélias.” She was celebrated for her powerful performances in both theater and film.
Personal and Family Life
Maria Falconetti, born Renée Jeanne Falconetti on July 21, 1892, in Pantin, France, had a career that spanned both stage and cinema. She joined the Odeon Theater in 1916, where she quickly gained recognition for her acting skills. Despite her success, her financial situation deteriorated after she purchased her own theater, which ultimately did not succeed.
Later Years
During World War II, she moved to Switzerland to escape the German occupation and eventually settled in Argentina. In her later years, she struggled with weight issues and attempted to return to the stage, but her efforts were largely unsuccessful. She worked various jobs to earn a living, including singing, acting, and teaching.
Death and Legacy
Maria Falconetti passed away on December 12, 1946, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, due to complications from a strict diet she undertook. She is best remembered for her extraordinary performance as Joan of Arc in “The Passion of Joan of Arc,” which is often hailed as one of the greatest performances in film history. Even today, she remains an iconic figure in cinema history.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| La Passion de Jeanne d’Arc | 1928-04-21 | Jeanne d’Arc |
| Llamas de nitrato | 2015-12-10 | Herself (archive footage) |
| La comtesse de Somerive | 1917-12-14 | |
| Le clown | 1917-09-21 | |
| Jeanne Marie Renée | 2002-10-25 | |
| Moving Portrait of Jeanne D’Arc | 2023-07-30 | Jeanne D’Arc |
| Lapsos Memoriais Do Cadáver De Minha Amada | Jeanne d’Arc (Archive Footage) | |
| CROWN OF THORNS | 2024-02-02 | Jeanne d’Arc (Archival Footage) |