Thursday, November 26, 2020

Born Today November 26: Frank Peregini (Perugini)

 

1888-1967

 

Little known silent film cinematographer/director Frank Peregini was born in Italy on this day. He is known to have shot only two films and directed one production, but it is likely that he worked on more films than just these three. There is no information as to when he immigrated to the U.S., but he arrived in or--more likely--before 1921.  His first film was as the cinematographer on the independent melodrama The Devil's Confession in 1921.  He next shot the police drama The Valley of Lost Souls; also an independent film, it was released in May of 1923. By far his most famous work came as the director of the 1927 "all colored" domestic crime melodrama The Scar of Shame; where he is credited as "Frank Perugini" (a film that has survived and is widely available for viewing today--plus there is a completely restored Library of Congress print as well).  This film was shot in Philadelphia, which would become Peregini's adopted hometown.  He stayed in Philly for the remainder of his life, passing away there in January of 1967; he was 78 years of age. Details of his burial or interment are unknown.  

 


 

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