Chinese actors who were born in 1913
Here are 5 famous actors from China were born in 1913:
Li Tie
Li Tie (January 3, 1913 Guangdong Province-September 27, 1996 Hong Kong) also known as Tit Lee, Tieh Li or Tie Li was a Chinese film director, screenwriter and actor.
He began his career in the film industry in the 1930s as an actor and worked with famous studios like Tianyi and Lianhua. In the 1950s, he transitioned into directing and screenwriting and became known for his many successful films. He directed over 70 films in his career, including the critically acclaimed works "Mother" and "The Red Detachment of Women." Li Tie was also known for his social realism style and his willingness to tackle taboo subjects in his films. He continued to work in the film industry until his retirement in the 1980s.
Throughout his career, Li Tie received several awards and honors for his contributions to the film industry. In 1987, he was bestowed with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Hong Kong Film Directors' Guild. In 1993, he received the prestigious Golden Bear Award at the Berlin International Film Festival for his film "Life on a String". Li Tie was also a member of the jury at various film festivals, including the Cannes Film Festival in 1980. Even after his retirement, he remained active in the industry and served as a mentor to many young filmmakers. Li Tie passed away in Hong Kong at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential directors in Chinese cinema.
In addition to his work in the film industry, Li Tie was also a writer and editor. He wrote several film scripts, including the screenplay for the film "Dragon Seed" which was based on the novel by Pearl S. Buck. He also served as an editor for several magazines and newspapers, including the Tianyi Film Company's in-house publication. He was known for his love of literature and often incorporated it into his films.
Li Tie was a pioneer in the Chinese film industry and played an important role in the development of Chinese cinema. His films helped to create a new form of Chinese cinema, known as the Fifth Generation, which emphasized artistic expression, realism, and social consciousness. He was also instrumental in the development of the Hong Kong film industry, where he worked for many years.
In addition to his artistic pursuits, Li Tie was also actively involved in politics. He was a member of the Chinese Communist Party and served as an organizer and propagandist during the Chinese Civil War. During his time in Hong Kong, he remained active in left-wing politics and was involved in various labor and leftist organizations.
Overall, Li Tie's contributions to the film industry and Chinese culture as a whole were immense. He left behind a rich legacy of influential films and was an inspiration to many filmmakers.
Li Tie's influence on Chinese cinema continued even after his passing. In 2015, a restored version of his film "Breaking the Siege" was screened at the Venice Film Festival, bringing renewed attention to his work. In addition, his films continue to be studied and analyzed by film scholars around the world for their artistic and social significance. Li Tie's impact on the film industry was recognized by the Chinese government in 1994, when he was awarded the highest honor for cultural figures in China, the Lifetime Achievement Award. Today, Li Tie is remembered as one of the most important figures in the history of Chinese cinema and a pioneer of the Fifth Generation film movement.
Miao Ching
Miao Ching (March 13, 1913 Shandong-November 5, 1989 Taiwan) a.k.a. Miao Jing, Ching Miao, Cheng Miu, Jing Miao, Tsen Miao or Tseng Miao was a Chinese actor. His children are called Li Ching and Hung Ching.
Miao Ching began his acting career in Mainland China, appearing in various films during the 1930s and 1940s. He later moved to Hong Kong and became a prolific actor in the local film industry. Miao was known for his versatility and his ability to portray a wide range of characters, from heroic protagonists to villainous antagonists. He appeared in over 200 films throughout his career, working with some of the most renowned directors in Hong Kong cinema. In the 1960s, Miao moved to Taiwan and continued his acting career there. He also worked as a film producer in Taiwan, helping to establish the country's film industry. Miao was widely respected for his talent and dedication to the craft of acting. He passed away in Taiwan in 1989 at the age of 76.
In addition to his prolific acting career, Miao Ching was known for his versatility in other aspects of the entertainment industry. He was also a skilled composer, having written the music for several films in which he appeared. Miao was also an accomplished martial artist, and he often incorporated his skills into his performances. He was particularly skilled in the use of the whip, and his expertise in this area led to some memorable fight scenes in his films. Despite his success, Miao remained humble and dedicated to his art, always striving to improve his craft. His legacy continues to be felt in Hong Kong and Taiwan cinema, where he is remembered as one of the most talented actors of his generation.
Miao Ching's contribution to the film industry did not go unnoticed. He won several awards for his acting, including the Best Supporting Actor Award at the 13th Asian Film Festival for his role in the film, "The Crimson Palm." In 1968, he received the Golden Horse Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring his outstanding contributions to the Chinese language film industry. Miao was also a mentor to many young actors, including his own daughter, Li Ching, who went on to have a successful acting career of her own.
Despite his success, Miao Ching faced some hardships in his personal life. During the Chinese Cultural Revolution, his family was targeted because of their association with the film industry, and they were forced to flee to Hong Kong. Miao also faced health problems later in life, including diabetes and kidney disease. Nevertheless, he remained dedicated to his craft until the end of his life, and his impact on Chinese language cinema will never be forgotten.
Miao Ching's influence on the film industry extended beyond his acting career. In the 1970s, he established his own film production company, Miao Film Co., Ltd., which produced several popular films in Taiwan. He used his experience and knowledge to help young filmmakers, promoting their work and providing opportunities for them to showcase their talent. Miao was also an advocate for the preservation of Chinese culture and arts, and he believed strongly in the power of cinema to communicate important cultural and social messages.
Miao's dedication to his craft and his contributions to the film industry were recognized posthumously. In 1990, he was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Golden Horse Awards, one of the most prestigious film awards in Chinese language cinema. In 2005, the Hong Kong Film Awards honored Miao with a posthumous Special Award for his contributions to the industry.
Today, Miao Ching's legacy lives on through his films, his family, and the many young actors and filmmakers whose careers he supported and influenced. He is remembered as a versatile and talented performer, a dedicated and inspiring mentor, and a passionate advocate for Chinese culture and cinema.
Shih Kien
Shih Kien (January 1, 1913 Panyu District-June 3, 2009 Queen Elizabeth Hospital) otherwise known as Wing-Cheung Shek, Sek Kin, Kien Shih, Shek Kin, Kin Sek, Shek Wing-cheung, Shǐ Jián, 石坚, 石堅, Sek6 Gin1, 石榮璋, Villain Kin, 奸人堅, Kan Yan Kin, Kien Shi, Shih Chien, Siak Kin, Shih Kin or Sheck Kin was a Chinese actor.
Shih Kien was best known for his roles as villains in Hong Kong cinema during the 1960s and 1970s. He appeared in over 350 films throughout his career, including the Bruce Lee classic "Enter the Dragon" in 1973. Shih Kien also had a successful career in television, appearing in the popular Hong Kong TV series "Justice Pao". In addition to acting, Shih Kien was also a published author, having written several books on Chinese martial arts. He died at the age of 96 in Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Hong Kong.
Shih Kien began his acting career in Shanghai in the 1930s, performing in both Chinese film and theater productions. He moved to Hong Kong in the 1950s, where he continued his successful career in the entertainment industry. In addition to being a talented actor, Shih Kien was also a trained martial artist and choreographer. He often incorporated his martial arts expertise into his film roles, making his fight scenes particularly compelling. Shih Kien was widely regarded as one of the most iconic villains in Hong Kong cinema history, and his contributions to the industry earned him numerous accolades throughout his career. Despite being primarily known for his villainous roles, Shih Kien was also a versatile actor, and he portrayed a wide range of characters throughout his career.
Shih Kien was born in Panyu District, Guangzhou, China on January 1, 1913. He started training in martial arts at a young age, studying under the famous master Huo Yuanjia, who was also the subject of the biopic film "Fearless" starring Jet Li. Shih Kien's training would later become instrumental in his success as a martial arts actor.
In the 1940s, Shih Kien moved to Hong Kong and continued his acting career. He quickly became a sought-after character actor, appearing in a variety of film genres, including dramas, comedies, and action films. His portrayal of villainous characters, however, became his claim to fame, and he soon gained a reputation as the "king of movie villains" in Hong Kong cinema.
Despite his success as an actor, Shih Kien also faced personal challenges in his life. He was a victim of polio, which affected his mobility from a young age. He was also imprisoned during the Japanese occupation of Hong Kong during World War II. Despite these challenges, Shih Kien continued to persevere, and his determination and talent ultimately led him to become one of the most respected and admired actors in Hong Kong cinema.
Shih Kien's legacy continues to live on through his many iconic film roles and his contributions to the martial arts community. He remains a beloved figure in Hong Kong and in the wider world of film, and his influence can still be seen today in the work of actors and filmmakers around the world.
In addition to his successful acting career, Shih Kien was also a published author, having written several books on Chinese martial arts, including "Chi Kung: Health and Martial Arts" and "The Martial Arts Guide". He was a respected master of various martial arts styles, including Tai Chi, Wing Chun, and Northern Shaolin Kung Fu, and he often served as a consultant and choreographer on martial arts films.
Shih Kien received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Hong Kong Film Awards in 1995. He was also honored with a star on the Avenue of Stars, a waterfront promenade in Hong Kong dedicated to the city's film industry.
Despite his fame and success, Shih Kien remained a humble and gracious individual. He was respected and loved by his peers in the film industry, and he was known for his generosity and kindness towards his fans. Shih Kien's contributions to cinema and martial arts continue to be celebrated and remembered today.
Ng Wui
Ng Wui (December 3, 1913 Guangzhou-March 1, 1996 Hong Kong) also known as Wu Hu, Hui Wu or Wui Ng was a Chinese screenwriter, film director and actor.
He was a prominent figure in the Hong Kong film industry during the 1950s and 1960s, known for his innovative and socially conscious films that tackled issues such as poverty, political corruption, and social injustice. Ng Wui began his career as a screenwriter in the late 1930s, working for several film studios in Shanghai, before making his directorial debut in 1948 with the film "The Unworthy Citizen". He went on to direct over 30 films in his career, many of which were critically acclaimed and popular with audiences. As an actor, Ng Wui appeared in more than 100 films, often in supporting roles. He was recognized for his contribution to the film industry with numerous awards, including the Hong Kong Film Award for Outstanding Contribution to Asian Cinema in 1994.
Ng Wui was born in Guangzhou, China in 1913 and moved to Hong Kong with his family in 1917. He attended St. Joseph's College in Hong Kong and graduated in 1931, after which he studied literature at Lingnan University in Guangzhou. During his time at Lingnan University, Ng Wui developed an interest in film and began writing film reviews for the university's newspaper. He went on to work as a film critic and screenwriter for several major film studios in Shanghai during the 1930s, including Lianhua and Mingxing.
After the Communist Revolution in 1949, Ng Wui moved to Hong Kong and continued working in the film industry there. He was known for his collaborations with leading Hong Kong actors and actresses, including Patrick Tse, Lin Dai, and Ching Li. Ng Wui's films were noted for their realistic portrayal of social issues and their strong anti-corruption messages. His most famous works include "The Love Eterne" (1963), a historical drama featuring a female lead played by a male actor, which won Best Picture at the 3rd Asian Film Festival in Tokyo, and "The Story of a Discharged Prisoner" (1967), a crime drama that explored the difficulties faced by ex-convicts trying to reintegrate into society.
In addition to his work in film, Ng Wui was a prolific writer and playwright, and was also known for his philanthropic activities. He helped establish the Hong Kong Film Directors' Guild in 1957 and served as its chairman for many years. Ng Wui continued to work in the film industry until his death in 1996, at the age of 82. He is remembered as one of the pioneers of Hong Kong cinema and a significant figure in the history of Chinese-language film.
Ng Wui's films were not only popular in Hong Kong, but also gained international recognition. In 1963, he directed "The Adulteress" which won the Golden Horse Award for Best Feature Film at the Asia Pacific Film Festival. The film was also nominated for Best Picture at the 12th Berlin International Film Festival. Ng Wui's influence in Hong Kong cinema can still be seen today, as many of his films and themes continue to inspire contemporary filmmakers. In recognition of his contributions to the film industry, the Hong Kong Film Archive holds an annual "Ng Wui Film Week" to showcase his works. Outside of film, Ng Wui was also an accomplished calligrapher and often incorporated his calligraphy into his film posters. He was also a dedicated educator, teaching film and literature at various universities in Hong Kong throughout his life. Ng Wui's legacy continues to be celebrated and remembered by fans and filmmakers alike.
Ng Wui was known for pushing the boundaries of traditional filmmaking and exploring new techniques, such as using unconventional camera angles, non-linear storytelling, and experimental sound design. He also frequently tackled taboo subjects such as prostitution and drug addiction in his films, which was a departure from the melodramatic romances and martial arts films that were popular in Hong Kong at the time.
In addition to his work in film, Ng Wui was a well-respected member of the Hong Kong literary scene, publishing several books and essays on literature and poetry. He was also a passionate advocate for social justice, and his films often reflected his progressive political views.
Ng Wui's influence on Hong Kong cinema can still be felt today through his contributions to the development of the industry and his innovative approach to filmmaking. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of filmmakers and artists in Hong Kong and around the world.
David Sarvis
David Sarvis (February 8, 1913 Nanjing-June 27, 1999 Mill Valley) was a Chinese actor.
He was born to American parents and raised in China. Sarvis began his acting career in Shanghai in the 1930s, appearing in various Chinese films. He later moved to the United States and continued his acting career in Hollywood, appearing in films such as "The Sand Pebbles" and "The Hawaiians." In addition to his work in film, Sarvis also appeared in various television shows, including "Bonanza" and "Hawaii Five-O." Despite his success in Hollywood, Sarvis remained dedicated to promoting Chinese culture and history, serving as the president of the Chinese Historical Society of Southern California. He passed away in 1999 at the age of 86.
Sarvis was fluent in Chinese and English, and his ability to navigate between the two cultures contributed to his success as an actor. He had a deep appreciation for Chinese culture and was a student of calligraphy, traditional Chinese painting, and poetry. In fact, he often shared his love of Chinese culture with his Hollywood colleagues and friends, including director John Ford and actor Steve McQueen.
Sarvis also had a diverse career outside of acting. During World War II, he served as an interpreter and adviser for General Joseph Stilwell in Kunming, China. He later worked as a radio broadcaster for CBS in San Francisco, covering news events such as the Korean War and the McCarthy hearings.
Throughout his life, Sarvis remained dedicated to promoting understanding and friendship between the United States and China. He created the David Sarvis Scholarship for Chinese students to study in the United States and also established the U.S.-China Peoples Friendship Association. His legacy continues to inspire those who are committed to promoting cross-cultural understanding and exchange.
In recognition of his contributions to promoting Chinese culture and history, David Sarvis was awarded with numerous accolades, including the Order of the Auspicious Clouds by the Republic of China and was named an honorary citizen of the city of Nanjing. Additionally, in 1989, Sarvis received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Chinese Historical Society of Southern California, an organization he served as president for many years. Sarvis also wrote several books, including his memoir "From the Middle Kingdom to the Wild West: A Chinese-American Odyssey," which chronicled his career and personal life. His life is an example of the positive impact that individuals can have in bridging cultural divides and promoting mutual respect and understanding.
David Sarvis was not only an actor but also a philanthropist who contributed his time and resources to various charitable causes. He was an active supporter of the California Pacific Medical Center Foundation, the San Francisco Symphony, and the San Francisco Opera. In addition, he was a founding member of the Chinese American Citizens Alliance and served as the organization's National Vice President. Throughout his life, Sarvis remained committed to promoting Chinese-American relations and was a tireless advocate for human rights. Despite facing racism and discrimination throughout his life, he continued to work towards greater understanding and acceptance between different cultures. His dedication to his heritage and his passion for acting and philanthropy continue to inspire others to work towards a more tolerant and inclusive world.