Young Tony Curtis and Young Houdini performing Magic [German Newspaper clipping from Janet Leigh Collection at Margaret Herrick Library]
Both performed most of their own tricks/stunts in their respective films:
- Tony Curtis performs many of the tricks of the master himself in “H o u d i n i,” the Paramount picture…This accomplishment is probably worth noting, since the illusions could so easily be faked in a medium that itself used to be known as “the magic lantern.” [Newspaper clipping from Janet Leigh Collection] In fact, George Boston (magic instructor) and Joe Dunninger (magician who inherited some of Houdini tricks and books) were technical advisors on the magic and escapes.
- Harry performed most of his own stunts in “The Grim Game”, despite the fact that they could easily be faked by movie magic editing and using a stunt double (e.g., plane to plane transfer).
Both performed magic tricks on the set of their respective movies:
- Tony Curtis made up as old man showing magic tricks to studio workers. The consultant on the movie, George Boston, is the fellow in the black tie and dark coat. [Paramount Pictures Corporation]
- Houdini performs on the Famous Players-Lasky
Backlot
Both got injured making their respective movies:
- Tony Curtis sprained his right ankle .[Paramount Pictures Corporation]
- Houdini risked his life and sustained injury in making “The Grim Game”
Both are Kings of Cards:
- Tony Curtis King of Cards Still [Paramount Pictures Corporation]
LOVE the recreated shot of Tony. I saw this pic in the original mag at Arthur’s house and flipped. I’d never seen it before.
It is an incredible shot; Definately need another visit to Arthur’s house.
Tony’s parents were right off the boat from Hungary when he was born, and he didn’t speak English until he started school. The same was undoubtedly true of Houdini, who arrived in America at the age of four.
Both Tony and Houdini were Jews who married Christians.
Both Tony and Houdini rose from the very bottom to the very top.
Congratulations, Joe, on your new discoveries (amazing how the truth makes itself known–with help from such as you–and on this wonderful website.
That is great information on Tony. Thanks for the nice comment and sharing your Houdini expertise with me.
I’ve heard the body double of Tony curtis on the film houdini was James cross stage name of crosini who was a grand uncle of mine from Middlesbrough UK