Derrick De Marney
Actor
About Derrick De Marney
Derrick De Marney was a British character actor who had a notable but brief career in the 1930s, best remembered for his role in the groundbreaking science fiction film 'Things to Come' (1936). Born into a theatrical family, he followed his older brother Valentine De Marney into acting, though he never achieved the same level of fame. His performance in 'Things to Come' as a minor character in H.G. Wells' futuristic vision of war and technological advancement remains his most significant screen credit. De Marney appeared in a handful of other British films throughout the mid-1930s, typically playing supporting roles that showcased his distinctive presence. His career was relatively short-lived, with most of his film work concentrated between 1935 and 1937. Despite his limited filmography, his participation in one of the most influential science fiction films of the 1930s has ensured his place in cinema history. After his brief film career, he largely disappeared from public records, suggesting he may have left the entertainment industry or passed away relatively young.
The Craft
On Screen
Classical British stage-influenced acting style typical of the 1930s, with clear diction and theatrical delivery adapted for the early sound film medium
Milestones
- Appeared in the landmark science fiction film 'Things to Come' (1936)
- Worked during the early British sound film era
- Part of the De Marney acting family
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Derrick De Marney's cultural impact is primarily tied to his participation in 'Things to Come,' one of the most significant science fiction films of the 1930s. The film, based on H.G. Wells' work, was groundbreaking in its vision of future warfare, technological advancement, and social evolution. While his role was minor, being part of such an influential production places him within the historical context of early science fiction cinema. The film's special effects, production design, and philosophical themes influenced countless later science fiction works, making every contributor, including De Marney, part of cinema history.
Lasting Legacy
Derrick De Marney's legacy is that of a minor actor who participated in a major cinematic milestone. While he never achieved stardom or left a substantial body of work, his appearance in 'Things to Come' ensures his name is preserved in film history books and databases. He represents the countless supporting actors who contributed to classic films but whose personal stories remain largely untold. His brief career during the transition from silent to sound films in Britain also reflects the challenging nature of the film industry during that era.
Who They Inspired
As a minor character actor with a brief career, Derrick De Marney did not have a significant influence on other actors or directors. His primary influence is through his participation in 'Things to Come,' which itself influenced generations of science fiction filmmakers and storytellers. The film's ambitious scope and technical achievements set new standards for the genre, and every actor involved, regardless of their role's size, contributed to this influential work.
Off Screen
Limited information is available about Derrick De Marney's personal life. He came from a family with theatrical connections, with his brother Valentine De Marney also pursuing an acting career. The scarcity of biographical information suggests he may have either left the entertainment industry early or passed away at a relatively young age.
Did You Know?
- His older brother Valentine De Marney was also an actor who had a more substantial career
- 'Things to Come' was produced by Alexander Korda and based on H.G. Wells' novel 'The Shape of Things to Come'
- The film was one of the most expensive British productions of its time
- Despite his limited filmography, he worked with some of the biggest names in 1930s British cinema
- The special effects in 'Things to Come' were revolutionary for their time
- H.G. Wells was heavily involved in the production of the film
- The film predicted World War II with remarkable accuracy
- De Marney's exact role in 'Things to Come' is not well-documented in surviving records
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Derrick De Marney?
Derrick De Marney was a British character actor active in the mid-1930s, best known for his appearance in the science fiction classic 'Things to Come' (1936). He came from a theatrical family and had a brief film career during the early sound era in British cinema.
What films is Derrick De Marney best known for?
Derrick De Marney is primarily known for his role in 'Things to Come' (1936), one of the most influential science fiction films of the 1930s. This landmark production based on H.G. Wells' work remains his most significant and well-documented screen credit.
When was Derrick De Marney born and when did he die?
Derrick De Marney was born in 1908 in London, England. His death date is not well-documented in available sources, which is not uncommon for minor character actors from this era who left the industry or passed away without significant public recognition.
What awards did Derrick De Marney win?
There are no records of Derrick De Marney receiving any major awards or nominations during his brief acting career. As a minor character actor in the 1930s British film industry, he worked during a time when such recognition was typically reserved for leading performers.
What was Derrick De Marney's acting style?
Derrick De Marney employed the classical British acting style typical of the 1930s, characterized by clear diction and theatrical delivery adapted for early sound films. This style reflected the transition from stage to screen acting that was occurring in British cinema during this period.
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Films
1 film
