Gérard Oury

Gérard Oury, originally named Max-Gérard Houry Tannenbaum, was born on April 29, 1919, and passed away on July 20, 2006. He made his mark as a prominent French director, actor, and writer, particularly celebrated for his comedic films from the 1960s to the 1980s. His most notable works include classics such as *The Sucker* (1965), *Don't Look Now... We're Being Shot At!* (1966), *The Brain* (1969), *The Mad Adventures of Rabbi Jacob* (1973), and *Ace of Aces* (1982).

Oury was born to Serge Tannenbaum, a violinist of Russian-Jewish descent, and Marcelle Houry, a journalist and art critic. Raised in a secular household, he faced the challenges of Jewish identity during the Vichy regime, prompting his family’s escape to Switzerland. After the war, he returned to Paris and resumed his acting career, eventually transitioning to directing with his first feature, *The Itchy Palm*, in 1959.

His partnership with actors André Bourvil and Louis de Funès led to significant commercial successes, particularly *The Sucker*, which was showcased at the 4th Moscow International Film Festival, and *Don't Look Now... We're Being Shot At!*, which garnered a record 17.27 million admissions in France, a record that stood for years.

Oury's personal life included his long-term relationship with actress Michèle Morgan and his legacy continued through his daughter, writer Danièle Thompson, and grandson, actor Christopher Thompson. He died at the age of 87 in Saint-Tropez.