Charles Laughton (1899-1962) was an iconic British actor, known for his powerful stage presence and unmistakable voice. His film career saw him excel in complex and often ambiguous roles.

He won an Oscar for Best Actor for his unforgettable portrayal of Henry VIII in *The Private Life of Henry VIII* (1933). Other iconic roles include Captain Bligh in *Mutiny on the Bounty* (1935), Quasimodo in *The Hunchback of Notre Dame* (1939), and the shrewd lawyer in *Witness for the Prosecution* (1957).

Laughton was a master of transformation, capable of imbuing depth and humanity even into the most authoritarian, grotesque, or tyrannical characters. Although primarily an actor, he directed only one film, the noir masterpiece *The Night of the Hunter* (1955), now considered a cult classic. His legacy lies in his versatility and his intense and memorable performances.