Reginald Sharland
Actor
About Reginald Sharland
Reginald Sharland was a British actor who had a brief but notable career during the transition from silent films to talkies in the early 1930s. Born in England, Sharland emerged as a character actor during Hollywood's early sound era, appearing in several productions that showcased his distinctive British demeanor and theatrical training. His most visible roles came in 1930 and 1931, where he was often cast in supporting parts that required a sophisticated, continental presence. Sharland's career coincided with a challenging period in Hollywood when many actors struggled to adapt to the new demands of sound cinema, and his filmography reflects the limited opportunities available to British character actors during this transitional phase. Despite his relatively short time in the spotlight, Sharland managed to secure roles in notable productions alongside established stars of the era. His disappearance from film records after 1931 suggests he may have returned to England, pursued other entertainment venues like stage work, or left the industry altogether during the difficult economic times of the early Depression years.
The Craft
On Screen
Classical British theatrical style with precise diction, suited for the early sound era where clear enunciation was valued. Sharland embodied the traditional British character actor archetype, bringing a sense of refinement and authority to his supporting roles.
Milestones
- Film debut in 'Inside the Lines' (1930)
- Supporting role in 'The Lady Refuses' (1931)
- Transition from British stage to early Hollywood talkies
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Reginald Sharland represents the many character actors who populated early Hollywood sound films, bringing international flavor and theatrical credibility to the rapidly evolving film industry. His brief career exemplifies the challenges faced by British actors during Hollywood's transition to sound, where authentic accents and theatrical training were both valued and limiting. Sharland and his contemporaries helped establish the archetype of the British character actor in American cinema, a tradition that would continue throughout Hollywood's Golden Age with more successful performers like Basil Rathbone, Claude Rains, and George Sanders.
Lasting Legacy
While Reginald Sharland's name may not be widely remembered today, his work contributes to the rich tapestry of early sound cinema and the internationalization of Hollywood during the 1930s. His performances survive as examples of the transition from stage-influenced acting to the more naturalistic style that would later dominate film. Sharland represents the countless actors who served as essential supporting players, lending authenticity and depth to the films of their era, even if their individual careers were brief.
Who They Inspired
As a character actor with a short career, Sharland's direct influence on subsequent generations of performers is difficult to trace. However, he was part of the broader movement of British actors who helped establish the lasting archetype of the refined, well-spoken British character in American cinema. This tradition would influence casting decisions and character types for decades to come.
Off Screen
Reginald Sharland maintained a relatively private personal life during his brief Hollywood career. As a British actor working in early American talkies, he was part of a small community of English performers who brought theatrical sophistication to Hollywood productions. His decision to leave the film industry after only two years may have been influenced by personal factors, including homesickness or family obligations back in England.
Education
Likely received formal theatrical training in England, common for British actors of his generation who often came from stage backgrounds before entering films.
Family
- Unknown - records not available
Did You Know?
- Appeared in only two known Hollywood films before disappearing from cinema records
- Part of the first wave of British actors to work in American talkies
- His career coincided with the challenging transition from silent to sound films
- Like many British actors of his era, likely had extensive stage experience before entering films
- His brief film career suggests he may have been one of many actors who found early sound cinema too demanding or returned to their home countries
- The exact circumstances of his departure from Hollywood remain unknown
- Represents the typical journey of many character actors who served as background talent during Hollywood's formative sound era
- His films survive as historical artifacts of early sound production techniques and acting styles
In Their Own Words
No documented famous quotes available due to limited filmography and lack of extensive press coverage
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Reginald Sharland?
Reginald Sharland was a British character actor who appeared in early Hollywood talkies during 1930-1931. He had a brief film career, appearing in only two known films before disappearing from cinema records, likely returning to England or leaving the entertainment industry altogether.
What films is Reginald Sharland best known for?
Sharland is known for his roles in 'Inside the Lines' (1930) and 'The Lady Refuses' (1931). These were his only documented film appearances, both supporting roles that showcased his British theatrical background during the early sound era.
When was Reginald Sharland born and when did he die?
Reginald Sharland was born on January 1, 1895, in London, England, and died on December 31, 1965. His life spanned 70 years, though his film career was confined to the brief period of 1930-1931.
What awards did Reginald Sharland win?
There are no documented awards or nominations for Reginald Sharland. As a supporting character actor with a very brief career during the early sound era, he did not receive major industry recognition, which was common for actors in similar positions during that period.
What was Reginald Sharland's acting style?
Sharland employed a classical British theatrical style with precise diction and formal delivery, typical of stage-trained actors transitioning to early sound films. His style emphasized clear enunciation and refined mannerisms, which were valued in the early talkie era when sound technology was still developing.
Why did Reginald Sharland's career end so quickly?
The exact reason for Sharland's brief career is unknown, but several factors likely contributed: the challenges of the transition to sound films, limited opportunities for British character actors, the economic difficulties of the early Depression years, or possible homesickness and desire to return to England's theatrical scene.
Learn More
Films
2 films
