Pola Illéry was an American actress best known for her roles in silent films during the 1920s and her transition to sound films in the 1930s. She portrayed sexually liberated characters and was considered one of the most glamorous film stars in Romania.
Personal and Family Life
Pola Illéry, born Paula Iliescu on December 18, 1909, in Romania, had a family life that included her husband, Daniel Alpert, whom she married on April 8, 1947. Together, they had four children. After leaving her acting career, she sought a more modest life, moving to America in 1939 due to the rise of Nazism.
Career and Transition to America
Illéry started her career in the film industry in France and Romania, becoming well-known for her exotic looks and strong performances. After feeling that she had achieved success in the spotlight, she decided to retire from acting and move between New York and Maryland before finally settling in Pennsylvania.
Death and Legacy
Pola Illéry passed away on October 19, 1993, in Palos Verdes, California. She left behind a legacy as a pioneering figure in cinema, remembered for her glamorous roles and contribution to film during a transformative era. Despite her fame, she chose to live a humble life surrounded by her family until her death.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Sous les toits de Paris | 1930-04-28 | Pola |
| La rue sans nom | 1934-02-02 | Noa |
| Le Capitaine Fracasse | 1929-02-15 | Chiquita |
| Quatorze Juillet | 1933-01-13 | Pola (uncredited) |
| Illusions | 1930-03-14 | |
| Au pays du soleil | 1934-02-02 | |
| L’ange gardien | 1934-02-23 | |
| Le Tigre du Bengale | 1938-03-09 |