Jean-Paul Belmondo (1933-2021) was a French actor, a central figure of the Nouvelle Vague and an icon of popular cinema. Rising to fame with Jean-Luc Godard's *Breathless* (À bout de souffle, 1960), he embodied the charismatic and rebellious anti-hero, departing from traditional aesthetic canons.

His career, initially linked to art-house cinema, later shifted towards major commercial successes, spanning from sparkling comedies to breathtaking action films. Recognizable for his contagious energy, mischievous smile, and ability to personally perform the most daring stunts, Belmondo created an archetype of an atypical and adventurous "beau."

Among his most important films are *That Man from Rio* (1964), *Borsalino* (1970), *The Brain* (1969), and *The Professional* (1981). He left an indelible mark on the seventh art, remaining one of the most beloved and recognizable faces of French and international cinema.