Houdini (1953)
The spectacular but tragically short career of magician and illusionist Harry Houdini whose tricks defied explanation and safety.
2,930
Cast & Crew
Top Billed Cast
-
Harry Houdini -
Bess Houdini -
Otto -
Harry's Mother -
German Prosecuting Attorney -
Malue -
Schultz -
Dooley -
Mrs. Shultz -
British Jail Warden -
Mr. Hunter -
Insp. Marlick
-
Simms - Reporter
Full cast
Director:
George MarshallWriters:
Philip Yordan (screenplay), Harold Kellock (book)All Cast & Crew
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Did You Know?
Trivia
The movie contains several factual errors, the most telling of which is the dramatization of Harry Houdini's death. In the film he almost drowns in the torture tank trick and dies on the stage in the arms of his wife. In real life he was punched in the stomach by a college student who had heard that Houdini could withstand any blow without harm. This did, indeed, rupture his appendix. He later collapsed on stage, was taken to the hospital and died there.
Quotes
Harry Houdini:
I hadn't prepared anything for tonight, but perhaps I have something that will amuse you. So if you'll get a couple of broomsticks, I'll get my wife - and we'll see what we can do.
Goofs
Houdini was 5'5" while Tony Curtis was 5'9".
Soundtracks
Old Folks at Home(uncredited)
aka "Swanee River"
Music by Stephen Foster
Played when the Houdinis are backstage at Miner's Hall
Storyline
Plot Summary
Genres
Biography | DramaDetails
Release Date:
2 July 1953Language
English
Country of Origin
USAFilming Locations
Paramount Studios - 5555 Melrose Avenue, Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, USA
How well does Michael Sheen know his own career? IMDb quizzes the "Quiz" star on his IMDb page.