Konstantin Gibshman

Actor

Active: 1934-1937

About Konstantin Gibshman

Konstantin Gibshman was a Soviet actor active during the early sound era of Soviet cinema in the 1930s. His career, though brief, included appearances in two significant Soviet films that have become classics of the period. He appeared in the satirical comedy 'Lieutenant Kizhe' (1934), directed by Alexander Fayntsimmer, which was one of the earliest Soviet musical comedies and became a cult classic. Gibshman also had a role in the historical epic 'Peter the First, Part I' (1937), directed by Vladimir Petrov, which was part of a major biographical series about the Russian emperor. His filmography appears to be concentrated in the mid-1930s, coinciding with the establishment of sound cinema in the Soviet Union. While his acting career seems to have been relatively short, his participation in these important Soviet productions places him within the context of the developing Soviet film industry during Stalin's era. Unfortunately, detailed records about his life and career are scarce, which was not uncommon for supporting actors of this period in Soviet cinema.

The Craft

Milestones

  • Appeared in 'Lieutenant Kizhe' (1934), one of the earliest Soviet musical comedies
  • Acted in 'Peter the First, Part I' (1937), a major historical epic
  • Participated in the transition from silent to sound cinema in the Soviet Union

Best Known For

Iconic Roles

Must-See Films

  • Lieutenant Kizhe (1934)
  • Peter the First, Part I (1937)

Working Relationships

Worked Often With

  • Alexander Fayntsimmer
  • Vladimir Petrov

Studios

  • Lenfilm
  • Mosfilm

Why They Matter

Impact on Culture

Konstantin Gibshman's contribution to Soviet cinema, while not widely documented, represents the collective effort of countless supporting actors who helped establish the foundation of Soviet film during its formative years. His participation in 'Lieutenant Kizhe' placed him within one of the most innovative and daring Soviet productions of the 1930s, a film that used satire and music to navigate the complex political landscape of Stalinist Russia. The film itself became a cultural touchstone, with its music by Sergei Prokofiev becoming iconic in Russian culture. Similarly, his role in 'Peter the First, Part I' connected him to the Soviet tradition of historical epics that served both artistic and ideological purposes. While Gibshman may not have been a major star, his work contributed to the ensemble casts that brought these important Soviet films to life during a crucial period in the development of Russian cinema.

Lasting Legacy

Konstantin Gibshman's legacy is preserved through his appearances in two significant Soviet films that have stood the test of time. 'Lieutenant Kizhe' remains one of the most beloved and frequently referenced Soviet comedies, continually screened and studied for its artistic innovation and historical significance. 'Peter the First, Part I' is remembered as an ambitious historical production that exemplified the grand scale of Soviet cinema in the 1930s. While Gibshman himself may not be widely remembered by name, his contribution to these enduring works ensures his place in the history of Soviet film. His career represents the countless actors who formed the backbone of the Soviet film industry during its golden age, supporting the major stars and directors while helping to create the cinematic masterpieces that defined an era.

Who They Inspired

As a supporting actor in the Soviet film industry of the 1930s, Konstantin Gibshman's direct influence on other actors or filmmakers is not well-documented. However, his work in ensemble casts of important Soviet productions contributed to the development of acting styles and techniques that would influence subsequent generations of Soviet actors. The films he participated in, particularly 'Lieutenant Kizhe,' became reference points for future Soviet filmmakers in terms of blending satire, music, and political commentary.

Off Screen

Very little is known about Konstantin Gibshman's personal life, which was typical for many supporting actors in 1930s Soviet cinema. Detailed biographical information about actors who were not major stars was often not preserved or widely documented during this period of Soviet history.

Did You Know?

  • Appeared in two of the most significant Soviet films of the 1930s despite having a very brief film career
  • Worked during the transition period from silent to sound cinema in the Soviet Union
  • Participated in 'Lieutenant Kizhe,' which featured music by renowned composer Sergei Prokofiev
  • His film 'Lieutenant Kizhe' was so popular that its story was adapted into a ballet by Prokofiev in 1937
  • Both films he appeared in dealt with Russian history, one satirically and one as a serious historical epic
  • The 1930s was a period of intense state control over Soviet cinema, making any film participation significant
  • Very little biographical information survives about many Soviet supporting actors from this period
  • His career spanned only three years, from 1934 to 1937, which was not uncommon for character actors of the era

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Konstantin Gibshman?

Konstantin Gibshman was a Soviet actor active in the mid-1930s who appeared in two significant Soviet films, 'Lieutenant Kizhe' (1934) and 'Peter the First, Part I' (1937). He was a supporting actor during the early sound era of Soviet cinema.

What films is Konstantin Gibshman best known for?

Gibshman is best known for his appearances in 'Lieutenant Kizhe' (1934), a satirical musical comedy that became a Soviet classic, and 'Peter the First, Part I' (1937), a historical epic about Peter the Great.

When was Konstantin Gibshman born and when did he die?

Unfortunately, specific birth and death dates for Konstantin Gibshman are not available in historical records, which was common for supporting Soviet actors of this period.

What awards did Konstantin Gibshman win?

There are no records of Konstantin Gibshman receiving major awards or nominations during his brief acting career in the 1930s Soviet film industry.

What was Konstantin Gibshman's acting style?

Specific details about Gibshman's acting style are not well-documented, but as a Soviet actor in the 1930s, he likely worked within the theatrical and expressive style common to early Soviet cinema.

Why is Konstantin Gibshman significant in film history?

Gibshman is significant for his participation in two important Soviet films that have become classics. His work represents the contribution of countless supporting actors who helped establish Soviet cinema during its formative sound era.

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Films

2 films