Horațiu Mălăele

Horațiu-Valentin Mălăele, born on August 1, 1952, in Târgu-Jiu, Romania, is a multifaceted talent known for his work as an actor, cartoonist, writer, and director, particularly within the context of the Romanian New Wave.

Mălăele's artistic journey began early; by the time he finished secondary school, he had already held his first public art exhibition, paving the way for more than 30 exhibitions by 2016. He graduated from the Institute of Theater and Cinema in Bucharest in 1975, launching his professional acting career at the National Theater of Romania in Piatra Neamț. He later moved to Bucharest, where he became a leading figure in prominent theaters such as Nottara, Odeon, and Bulandra. His directing career includes notable productions like "O sărbătoare princiară" ("A Princely Feast") in 1982, "A Flea in Her Ear" in 1993, and "Carlo contra Carlo" in 1994, the latter earning him the Romanian Comedy Festival Prize.

Mălăele made his film debut in 1974 with "Păcală" and "Muntele Ascuns" and has since appeared in over 25 films. He has also directed acclaimed projects including the TV movie "Palaria" (2004), "Nunta mută" ("Silent Wedding", 2008), and "Funeralii fericite" ("Happy Funerals", 2013). In addition to his performance and directing work, he authored two books: "Horațiu despre Mălăele" and "Wanderings," which showcase his reflections and experiences.