Charles Lane (filmmaker) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Charles Lane
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|---|---|
| Born | December 26, 1953 |
| Nationality | American |
| Alma mater | State University of New York at Purchase (1980) |
| Occupation | Actor, filmmaker |
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Notable work
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Sidewalk Stories |
| Children | 1 |
Charles Lane (born December 26, 1953) is an American actor and filmmaker. He is known for writing, directing, and starring in his own movies. He has also acted in films by other directors.
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Becoming a Filmmaker
Charles Lane studied film at Purchase College. While he was a student, he made a short film called A Place in Time. This film was based on a real-life event that happened in New York City. His short film was very good and even won him a Student Academy Award. This award helped him get noticed in the film world.
Making Movies and Acting
Directing True Identity
After college, Charles Lane directed a movie called True Identity. This film starred a British comedian named Lenny Henry. The Walt Disney Company helped pay for the movie. It was a big step for Lane as a director.
The Story of Sidewalk Stories
In 1989, Lane wrote, directed, and starred in a special movie called Sidewalk Stories. This film was shot in black and white. It tells the story of a homeless street artist who suddenly has to take care of a little girl. Her father is sadly murdered, and the artist becomes her guardian.
The movie is almost silent, like the old films of Charlie Chaplin. It was inspired by Chaplin's famous movie The Kid. Sidewalk Stories was loved by critics and won many awards at film festivals. At the Cannes Film Festival, it received a 12-minute standing ovation, which was a new record! Lane was also nominated for three awards at the Film Independent Spirit Awards for his work on the film.
In 2014, for its 25th anniversary, Sidewalk Stories was updated and shown again at the Cannes Film Festival and the Tribeca Film Festival.
Acting in Posse
Charles Lane also had an important acting role in the film Posse, directed by Mario Van Peebles. In this movie, he played a character named Weezie.
Working with Other Stars
Throughout his career, Charles Lane has worked with many famous actors. These include James Earl Jones, Lenny Henry, and Frank Langella. He also gave one of her first movie roles to Edie Falco, who later became very famous for her role in the TV show The Sopranos. Lane often includes his friends and family in his films, like his brother Gerald and his daughter Nicole Alysia.
Movies and TV Shows
Charles Lane has been involved in many films and television projects. Here are some of them:
Film Roles and Projects
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1977 | A Place in Time | The Artist | Short film; he also wrote and directed it |
| 1989 | Sidewalk Stories | Artist | He also wrote, directed, and edited this film |
| 1991 | True Identity | Duane | He also directed this film |
| 1993 | Posse | "Weezie" | |
| 2009 | The Mind | Stan, The Landlord | |
| 2014 | Mr. Nice | He worked as a cinematographer for Episode 4 | |
| 2015 | Yellow Tape | He wrote and directed this film |
Television Work
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1993 | American Playhouse: Hallelujah | director | He directed this TV episode |
Awards and Recognitions
Charles Lane has won several awards for his filmmaking and acting.
| Year | Award | Nominated work | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1976 | Student Academy Awards | A Place in Time | Won |
| 1989 | Cannes Film Festival Prix du Public | Sidewalk Stories | Won |
| 1990 | Independent Spirit Award for Best Director | Sidewalk Stories | Nominated |
| Independent Spirit Award for Best First Feature | Sidewalk Stories | Nominated | |
| Independent Spirit Award for Best Male Lead | Sidewalk Stories | Nominated | |
| Würzburg International Film Weekend Audience Favorite | Sidewalk Stories | Won |
