**Burt Lancaster (1913-1994)** was an American actor, a symbol of strength and versatility. His film career began in 1946 with *The Killers*, which immediately made him an icon of film noir.

Characterized by an imposing physique, a sly smile, and an intense screen presence, Lancaster distinguished himself in often complex and morally ambiguous roles, ranging from anti-heroes to nobler characters. Among his most celebrated performances are Sergeant Warden in *From Here to Eternity* (1953), the cynical J.J. Hunsecker in *Sweet Smell of Success* (1957), and the charismatic preacher in *Elmer Gantry* (1960), a role for which he won the Academy Award for Best Actor.

He demonstrated great eclecticism, starring in various genres, from Westerns to dramas, as seen in *Birdman of Alcatraz* (1962) and Luchino Visconti's masterpiece *The Leopard* (1963), where he embodied an unforgettable aristocratic figure. His decades-long career left an indelible mark on cinematic history.