Paul Bonifas

Biography

Paul Bonifas (June 3, 1902 – November 9, 1975) was a distinguished French actor, born in Paris. He initially worked in the French customs service while pursuing acting classes at the Conservatoire de Paris during the 1920s. His dedication earned him the first prize in comedy, leading to his engagement with the Odéon Theatre in 1933 and the Comédie-Française in 1938.

Bonifas made his film debut in 1935 with a role in a cinematic adaptation of Dostoyevsky's "Crime and Punishment," directed by Pierre Chenal. His life took a dramatic turn during World War II when he served as a lieutenant in the artillery, sustaining serious injuries and participating in the evacuation of Dunkirk. Following this, he joined the Free French forces in London, where he broadcast for Radio Londres to audiences in occupied France.

In 1942, he appeared in "The Foreman Went to France" and, a year later, founded "The Molière Players," which showcased Molière’s works in London theatres and to French military audiences. His troupe performed a variety of plays at the Comedy Theatre, and in 1944, they featured in Alfred Hitchcock's short film "Aventure malgache."

Returning to France in 1946, Bonifas focused on theatre, specializing in comedy but also taking on serious roles. His later filmography includes notable titles such as "Trapeze" (1956), "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" (1956), "Charade" (1963), and "The Return of the Tall Blond Man with One Black Shoe" (1974). He passed away in Vernouillet, Yvelines, France, on November 9, 1975.