Kirk Douglas (1916-2020) was an icon of American cinema, known for his intensity and charisma. He portrayed complex, often tormented characters, with remarkable physicality and a strong screen presence, characterized by profound inner strength.

Among his most celebrated roles are the ambitious boxer in *Champion* (1949), the cynical journalist in *Ace in the Hole* (1951), the tormented Vincent van Gogh in *Lust for Life* (1956), and the rebellious colonel in *Paths of Glory* (1957). His gladiator slave in *Spartacus* (1960), an epic film he himself produced, was also iconic.

Douglas often portrayed determined, strong-willed, and sometimes morally ambiguous men, but always capable of great resilience and rebellion against injustice or fate. His distinctive expressiveness and vigor made him one of the most recognizable and influential figures of classic Hollywood.