**Dan Duryea (1907-1968)** was an American actor noted for his incisive performances, particularly in the *film noir* genre. Specializing in antagonistic roles, he often embodied cynical, sleazy, petty, or cowardly characters, with a characteristic sardonic smile that made them simultaneously fascinating and menacing.

He reached the pinnacle of his career in Fritz Lang's noir masterpieces, *The Woman in the Window* (1944) and *Scarlet Street* (1945), often alongside Edward G. Robinson and Joan Bennett. Other memorable performances include *Criss Cross* (1949) and the western *Winchester '73* (1950).

Duryea excelled at portraying duplicity and arrogance, creating unforgettable villainous figures who, not infrequently, suffered a deserved punishment. His distinctive style made him an iconic face of classic cinema.