The Beginnings and Small Roles (1950-1953)
In 1950, our subject began his career as a pianist-comedian with Max Révol’s "Les Burlesques de Paris". It was Sacha Guitry who provided him with his first minor film roles, notably in "La Poison" (1951), "Je l'ai été trois fois" (1952), and "Si Paris nous était conté" (1955). A more substantial role came in "La Vie d'un honnête homme" (1953), where he portrayed a deceitful valet, a character that became a bit more nuanced -- described as being "natural, without grimace or mustache". This is also notable as his first pairing with Claude Gensac. In 1952, he joined Robert Dhéry’s: La Troupe des Branquignols, first appearing in the revue: Bouboute et Sélection.
The early successes
(1953-1956)
1953 saw Louis de Funes gain further recognition in "Dortoir des grandes", alongside Jean Marais and Jeanne Moreau. He also appeared in "Ah! Les belles bacchantes", a successful revue that ran for two years, helping to solidify his technique and increase his public visibility. He transitioned into color films, appearing in both a film adaptation of the aforementioned revue and in "La Reine Margot". Further roles included "Le Mouton à cinq pattes", where he worked opposite Fernandel, and "Poisson d'avril" with Bourvil marking another important partnership. He also secured a supporting role as M. Calomel in "Papa, Maman, la Bonne et moi" (1954) and its sequel "Papa, maman, ma femme et moi" (1956), establishing him in popular comedies. Despite numerous roles in 1954, many were still only supporting ones.
Recognition and Initial Leading Roles
(1956-1957)
In 1956, Louis de Funes's performance as the grocer Jambier in "La Traversée de Paris" brought critical recognition. His portrayal as a character who is cowardly towards the powerful yet irritable towards the weak, stood out against the established leads, Jean Gabin and Bourvil. Although initially controversial, the film secured a cult status over time. The following year, Maurice Régamey finally offered him his first leading role in "Comme un cheveu sur la soupe". His portrayal of a suicidal composer won him the Grand Prix du Rire in 1957, his first major award.
The Peak of Popularity and a Career on Pause
(1957)
Also in 1957, Louis de Funes headlined in Yves Robert's "Ni vu, ni connu", as the poacher Blaireau. This "rural avatar of Guignol" character, defying authority, became a great public success, with the press declaring him, “Louis de Funès, the Funniest Actor in France”. This year also saw another leading role in André Hunebelle’s "Taxi, Roulotte et Corrida", which enjoyed success in Spain. After this peak, his film career temporarily paused with him returning to less important roles for period.
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