Charles Lane, a renowned African-American actor and filmmaker, was born on December 26, 1953. His passion for filmmaking began to take shape while attending SUNY Purchase, where he studied film and created a short film titled "A Place in Time," inspired by the infamous Kitty Genovese incident. This short film garnered significant attention, including a student Academy Award win.
Lane's early career in feature films saw him direct and star in "True Identity," a vehicle for British comedian Lenny Henry, funded by the Walt Disney Company. His subsequent feature film, "Sidewalk Stories," won numerous awards, including one at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. This modern-day, silent black-and-white film tells the heartwarming story of a homeless man's attempt to help a young girl and was released by Palm Pictures, although it is now out of print.
Throughout his career, Charles Lane has shared the screen with esteemed actors such as James Earl Jones, Lenny Henry, and Frank Langella. He also provided an early film role to The Sopranos actress Edie Falco. Lane often incorporates friends and family members into his films, including his brother Gerald, friend George, and daughter Nicole Alysia.
Lane's extensive body of work showcases his dedication to the craft of filmmaking and his ability to bring complex stories to life on the big screen.
