B.F. Zeidman
Actor
About B.F. Zeidman
B.F. Zeidman was a minor actor during the silent film era, known primarily for his single credited appearance in the 1916 comedy short 'The Mystery of the Leaping Fish.' His career appears to have been extremely brief, spanning only the year 1916, which suggests he may have been a bit player, extra, or someone who briefly dabbled in acting before pursuing other interests. The film itself was notable for its unconventional subject matter, featuring Douglas Fairbanks as a cocaine-addicted detective, but Zeidman's role in the production remains undocumented in detail. Like many performers from the early days of cinema, particularly those with minimal film credits, Zeidman's life and career exist primarily as a footnote in film history. The lack of additional credits or biographical information suggests he was not a professional actor but possibly someone who appeared in the film as a favor, for a one-time opportunity, or as part of the studio's stock company of background performers.
The Craft
Milestones
- Appeared in 'The Mystery of the Leaping Fish' (1916) starring Douglas Fairbanks
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Working Relationships
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
B.F. Zeidman's cultural impact is minimal due to his extremely brief film career, consisting of only one credited appearance. His legacy is tied solely to his participation in 'The Mystery of the Leaping Fish,' a film that has gained historical interest for its controversial subject matter and its star Douglas Fairbanks. While the film itself is studied by film historians for its bold content and early comedy techniques, Zeidman's individual contribution remains obscure and undocumented.
Lasting Legacy
B.F. Zeidman's legacy in cinema history is that of a footnote - a name listed among the cast of a historically significant but controversial silent film. His brief appearance in 'The Mystery of the Leaping Fish' represents the countless anonymous or minimally documented performers who populated early cinema. Like many bit players from the silent era, his story illustrates how the film industry of the 1910s relied on numerous unheralded contributors who have since faded into obscurity, leaving behind only their names in film credits.
Who They Inspired
Given his extremely limited filmography, B.F. Zeidman had no discernible influence on other actors or directors. His brief appearance in a single 1916 film suggests he was not part of the artistic or creative development of cinema, but rather a peripheral figure in one production.
Off Screen
No personal information is available about B.F. Zeidman, as he appears to have been a very minor figure in cinema history with only one credited film role. The lack of biographical details suggests he was not a professional actor but possibly someone who briefly appeared in film during the early silent era.
Did You Know?
- B.F. Zeidman only has one credited film role in his entire career
- His only film appearance was in 'The Mystery of the Leaping Fish' (1916)
- The film he appeared in was controversial for its depiction of drug use
- Douglas Fairbanks starred in the only film Zeidman is known to have appeared in
- The film was produced by the Fine Arts Film Company
- Like many early film performers, virtually nothing is known about Zeidman's life outside of this single credit
- His entire film career spanned just one year: 1916
- The Mystery of the Leaping Fish has survived and is available for viewing, though Zeidman's specific role is not documented
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was B.F. Zeidman?
B.F. Zeidman was a minor actor from the silent film era known only for his appearance in the 1916 comedy short 'The Mystery of the Leaping Fish' starring Douglas Fairbanks. His career appears to have lasted only one year, and virtually no biographical information about him exists beyond this single film credit.
What films is B.F. Zeidman best known for?
B.F. Zeidman is known only for 'The Mystery of the Leaping Fish' (1916), his sole credited film appearance. This Douglas Fairbanks comedy short has gained historical interest for its controversial subject matter involving drug use.
When was B.F. Zeidman born and when did he die?
The birth and death dates of B.F. Zeidman are unknown, as is common with many minor performers from the early silent era who left minimal documentation of their lives and careers.
What awards did B.F. Zeidman win?
B.F. Zeidman did not receive any known awards or nominations for his brief film work, which consisted of a single appearance in 1916.
What was B.F. Zeidman's acting style?
No information exists about B.F. Zeidman's acting style, as his only film role is undocumented in detail and he appeared to have had an extremely brief career in cinema.
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Films
1 film
