Roy Gordon
Actor
About Roy Gordon
Roy Gordon was an American character actor who worked primarily in the late 1950s, with his most notable appearance being in Roger Corman's 1959 horror film 'The Wasp Woman.' In the film, he portrayed Mr. Dunham, a concerned board member of the cosmetics company at the center of the story. Gordon specialized in playing authoritative and professional figures, bringing a sense of gravitas to his supporting roles. His performance in 'The Wasp Woman' demonstrated his ability to convincingly portray corporate executives during a time when B-movie horror films were gaining popularity. While his filmography appears to have been brief, Gordon contributed to the distinctive character of late-1950s American horror cinema. His career trajectory suggests he may have been a character actor who supplemented his income through acting while potentially maintaining other professional pursuits. Gordon's work represents the type of reliable character actor who helped flesh out the supporting casts of genre films during this era.
The Craft
On Screen
Character actor specializing in authoritative and professional roles, bringing dignity and gravitas to supporting parts in genre films
Milestones
- Appeared in Roger Corman's 'The Wasp Woman' (1959)
- Played Mr. Dunham in his most notable film role
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Roy Gordon's contribution to cinema, while limited in scope, represents the essential role of character actors in supporting the narrative framework of genre films during the late 1950s. His performance in 'The Wasp Woman' helped establish the corporate setting and professional world that contrasted with the film's horror elements. As part of Roger Corman's production company, Gordon participated in the B-movie movement that would later influence countless filmmakers and gain cult status among horror enthusiasts. His work exemplifies the type of reliable, professional acting that elevated low-budget productions beyond their limitations. The film itself has become a cult classic, ensuring Gordon's performance continues to be seen by new generations of horror film enthusiasts.
Lasting Legacy
Roy Gordon's legacy is tied primarily to his appearance in 'The Wasp Woman,' a film that has achieved cult status among horror film aficionados. While his career was brief, his contribution to this notable B-movie horror film ensures his place in the history of American genre cinema. His performance serves as an example of the character actors who provided stability and realism to genre films of the era. Gordon's work represents the often-overlooked contributions of supporting players who helped create the authentic worlds in which horror stories unfolded. The continued interest in Roger Corman's filmography means that Gordon's performance continues to be appreciated by scholars and fans of 1950s American horror cinema.
Who They Inspired
As a character actor with a limited filmography, Roy Gordon's direct influence on other actors or filmmakers is difficult to trace. However, his work in 'The Wasp Woman' contributed to the template of professional, authoritative characters in horror films that would be emulated in subsequent genre productions. The realistic portrayal of corporate figures in horror settings, which Gordon helped establish, became a recurring element in the genre. His performance style, characterized by professionalism and gravitas, represents the approach that many character actors would take in similar roles throughout the following decades. Gordon's contribution to a cult classic film means his work continues to be studied and appreciated by those interested in the history of American B-movies.
Off Screen
Very limited information is available about Roy Gordon's personal life, which is not uncommon for character actors with brief filmographies from this era.
Did You Know?
- 'The Wasp Woman' was produced by Roger Corman, known for his low-budget but profitable genre films
- The film has become a cult classic among horror film enthusiasts
- Gordon played a board member concerned about the company's experimental beauty products
- The film was shot in just seven days, typical of Corman's efficient production methods
- Despite its low budget, 'The Wasp Woman' has been referenced and parodied in various media over the decades
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Roy Gordon?
Roy Gordon was an American character actor best known for his role as Mr. Dunham in the 1959 Roger Corman horror film 'The Wasp Woman.' He specialized in playing authoritative and professional figures in supporting roles during the late 1950s.
What films is Roy Gordon best known for?
Roy Gordon is primarily known for his appearance in 'The Wasp Woman' (1959), where he played Mr. Dunham, a board member of a cosmetics company. This appears to be his most notable and documented film role.
When was Roy Gordon born and when did he die?
Specific birth and death dates for Roy Gordon are not readily available in public records, which is not uncommon for character actors with brief filmographies from this era.
What awards did Roy Gordon win?
There are no documented awards or nominations for Roy Gordon, which is typical for character actors working primarily in B-movie productions during the late 1950s.
What was Roy Gordon's acting style?
Roy Gordon was a character actor who specialized in portraying authoritative and professional figures with gravitas and dignity. His performance in 'The Wasp Woman' demonstrated his ability to convincingly play corporate executives in supporting roles.
Did Roy Gordon work with any famous directors?
Roy Gordon worked with Roger Corman, the legendary B-movie producer and director, on 'The Wasp Woman.' Corman was known for discovering talent and making profitable low-budget films that later achieved cult status.
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Films
1 film
