Bob Perry
Actor
About Bob Perry
Bob Perry was a minor actor during the late silent film era, known primarily for his appearance in William A. Wellman's acclaimed drama 'Beggars of Life' (1928). His career appears to have been extremely brief, with this single film credit representing his entire known filmography. In the film, he played a supporting role alongside stars Wallace Beery, Richard Arlen, and Louise Brooks in this gritty tale of hobos and drifters during the Great Depression era. Like many character actors of the period, Perry was likely hired for his authentic appearance that suited the film's realistic portrayal of American underclass life. His contribution, though small, was part of what made 'Beggars of Life' one of the more significant American silent films of its era. Unfortunately, detailed records about his life, career, or other potential work have not survived the passage of time, making him one of the many forgotten faces of early Hollywood.
The Craft
Milestones
- Appeared in William A. Wellman's 'Beggars of Life' (1928)
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Bob Perry's contribution to cinema, while minimal, represents the hundreds of anonymous character actors who populated early Hollywood films and helped create the authentic atmosphere that made silent films compelling. His appearance in 'Beggars of Life' places him within the context of one of the more significant social realist films of the late silent era, a film that captured the harsh realities of American life during the Depression years. Though his individual impact was small, collectively these supporting actors were essential to the success and authenticity of early American cinema.
Lasting Legacy
Bob Perry's legacy is that of a typical working actor from Hollywood's formative years - someone who contributed to the art form without achieving lasting fame. His single known film credit places him within the historical record of cinema, even if his personal story remains largely untold. He represents the countless performers who helped build the foundation of American film industry but whose names have been lost to time.
Who They Inspired
As a minor character actor with only one known credit, Bob Perry's direct influence on other performers or filmmakers would have been minimal. However, his work, along with that of other supporting actors of the era, contributed to the development of ensemble acting techniques and the importance of authentic casting in American cinema.
Off Screen
Very little is known about Bob Perry's personal life, as was common for minor character actors of the silent era who often worked anonymously and left few personal records behind.
Did You Know?
- Bob Perry's entire known filmography consists of just one film: 'Beggars of Life' (1928)
- 'Beggars of Life' was directed by William A. Wellman, who would later direct the first film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture, 'Wings' (1927)
- The film co-starred Louise Brooks, who would become an iconic figure of silent cinema
- 'Beggars of Life' was one of the early films to use sound technology, featuring a synchronized musical score and sound effects
- The film was based on a novel by Jim Tully, a former hobo who wrote about his experiences
- Like many supporting actors of the silent era, Perry was likely cast for his authentic appearance rather than formal acting training
- The film was produced by Paramount Pictures, one of the major studios of the silent era
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Bob Perry?
Bob Perry was an American actor active during the silent film era, known primarily for his appearance in the 1928 film 'Beggars of Life'. His career appears to have been extremely brief, with this single film representing his entire known filmography.
What films is Bob Perry best known for?
Bob Perry is known only for his role in 'Beggars of Life' (1928), a silent drama directed by William A. Wellman and starring Wallace Beery, Richard Arlen, and Louise Brooks.
When was Bob Perry born and when did he die?
Unfortunately, Bob Perry's birth and death dates are not known, as was common for many minor character actors of the silent era whose personal records were not preserved.
What awards did Bob Perry win?
Bob Perry did not receive any known awards or nominations during his brief acting career, which consisted of a single film appearance.
What was Bob Perry's acting style?
While specific details about Bob Perry's acting style are not documented, as a supporting actor in 'Beggars of Life' he likely contributed to the film's realistic portrayal of American underclass life, which was characteristic of the social realist films of the late silent era.
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Films
1 film
