Harry Kurnitz

Harry Kurnitz

Deceased · Born: Jan 5, 1908 · Died: Mar 18, 1968

Personal Details

BornJan 5, 1908 New York City, New York, USA

Biography

Harry Kurnitz, a towering figure in the world of creative expression, burst onto the scene on January 5, 1908, and though his time with us was tragically cut short, his remarkable legacy endured long after his passing on March 18, 1968. This multifaceted American talent left an indelible mark on the artistic landscape, his remarkable range and versatility allowing him to excel in multiple fields with ease.

As a playwright, Kurnitz's works were marked by a keen understanding of the human condition, his words weaving together complex characters and narratives that captivated audiences and left a lasting impact. His novels, too, were infused with a deep sense of empathy and insight, allowing readers to connect with his characters on a profound level.

But it was as a screenwriter that Kurnitz truly shone, his scripts imbued with a sense of wit and sophistication that elevated even the most mundane storylines to new heights. His collaborations with some of the most iconic directors of his time resulted in some of the most beloved films of the era, cementing his status as a master of his craft.

Throughout his career, Kurnitz's dedication to his craft was matched only by his passion for storytelling, and it was this unwavering commitment that allowed him to leave behind a legacy that continues to inspire and delight audiences to this very day.

Kurnitz's illustrious career, marked by a remarkable versatility, traversed a wide range of genres, effortlessly gliding from the realm of swashbuckling adventures to the realm of the silver screen, where he meticulously crafted unforgettable tales that captivated the hearts of audiences worldwide, particularly those of the legendary Errol Flynn, whose dashing persona and charismatic on-screen presence seemed to be tailor-made for Kurnitz's masterfully penned narratives.

Meanwhile, Kurnitz's creative energies were also channeled towards the realm of comedies, where he demonstrated an uncanny ability to intuit the unique comedic style of the talented Danny Kaye, tailoring his scripts to perfectly capture the whimsical wit and irrepressible charm that had endeared Kaye to audiences everywhere.

Kurnitz's unwavering commitment to his craft spanned the entirety of his life, leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment that continues to be celebrated and revered to this very day.

His impressive array of accomplishments serves as a poignant testament to the boundless energy, innovative creativity, and unwavering perseverance that drove him to achieve greatness.

The sheer scope and depth of his contributions to the world of entertainment is a lasting tribute to his unrelenting passion and dedication, and stands as a shining example of what can be accomplished when one's heart and soul are fully invested in their craft.

In the years since his passing, Kurnitz's remarkable legacy has only grown in stature, inspiring countless individuals to follow in his footsteps and pursue their own dreams with unwavering passion and dedication.

As a testament to his enduring impact, his name remains synonymous with excellence, and his remarkable achievements continue to be celebrated and admired by generations to come.

Career

{"id":162571,"title":"Witness for the Prosecution","year":"1982","job":"Screenplay","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/witness-for-the-prosecution-1982","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_162571.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_162571.jpg"},"released":1}
1982
{"id":18581,"title":"How to Steal a Million","year":"1966","job":"Screenplay","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/how-to-steal-a-million","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/images\/fanart\/movies\/poster\/tahgl9ubt040.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/images\/fanart\/movies\/poster\/tahgl9ubt040.jpg"},"released":1}
1966
{"id":87815,"title":"Goodbye Charlie","year":"1964","job":"Screenplay","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/goodbye-charlie","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_87815.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_87815.jpg"},"released":1}
1964
Goodbye Charlie
Goodbye Charlie as Screenplay
{"id":14432,"title":"Hatari!","year":"1962","job":"Story","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/hatari","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/images\/fanart\/movies\/poster\/6577d2kmk1b0.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/images\/fanart\/movies\/poster\/6577d2kmk1b0.jpg"},"released":1}
1962
Hatari!
Hatari! as Story
{"id":66266,"title":"Surprise Package","year":"1960","job":"Screenplay","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/surprise-package","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_66266.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_66266.jpg"},"released":1}
1960
Surprise Package
Surprise Package as Screenplay
{"id":66281,"title":"Once More, with Feeling!","year":"1960","job":"Screenplay","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/once-more-with-feeling-1960","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_66281.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_66281.jpg"},"released":1}
{"id":10442,"title":"Witness for the Prosecution","year":"1957","job":"Screenplay","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/witness-for-the-prosecution","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/images\/fanart\/movies\/poster\/670qh58gb770.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/images\/fanart\/movies\/poster\/670qh58gb770.jpg"},"released":1}
1957
{"id":66832,"title":"The Happy Road","year":"1957","job":"Writer","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/the-happy-road","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_66832.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_66832.jpg"},"released":1}
{"id":32136,"title":"Land of the Pharaohs","year":"1955","job":"Writer","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/land-of-the-pharaohs","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/images\/fanart\/movies\/poster\/uuh6smg2tuc0.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/images\/fanart\/movies\/poster\/uuh6smg2tuc0.jpg"},"released":1}
1955
{"id":82628,"title":"The Love Lottery","year":"1954","job":"Screenplay","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/the-love-lottery","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_82628.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_82628.jpg"},"released":1}
1954
The Love Lottery
The Love Lottery as Screenplay
{"id":67483,"title":"Melba","year":"1953","job":"Story, Screenplay","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/melba","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_67483.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_67483.jpg"},"released":1}
1953
Melba
Melba as Story, Screenplay
{"id":67645,"title":"The Man Between","year":"1953","job":"Screenplay","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/the-man-between","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_67645.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_67645.jpg"},"released":1}
The Man Between
The Man Between as Screenplay
{"id":174283,"title":"Tonight We Sing","year":"1953","job":"Writer","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/tonight-we-sing","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_174283.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_174283.jpg"},"released":1}
{"id":174524,"title":"Of Men and Music","year":"1951","job":"Writer","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/of-men-and-music","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_174524.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_174524.jpg"},"released":1}
1951
{"id":68824,"title":"Pretty Baby","year":"1950","job":"Screenplay","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/pretty-baby-1950","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_68824.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_68824.jpg"},"released":1}
1950
Pretty Baby
Pretty Baby as Screenplay
{"id":69114,"title":"My Dream Is Yours","year":"1949","job":"Screenplay","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/my-dream-is-yours","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_69114.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_69114.jpg"},"released":1}
1949
My Dream Is Yours
My Dream Is Yours as Screenplay
{"id":82825,"title":"The Inspector General","year":"1949","job":"Screenplay","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/the-inspector-general","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_82825.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_82825.jpg"},"released":1}
{"id":174669,"title":"A Kiss in the Dark","year":"1949","job":"Writer","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/a-kiss-in-the-dark","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_174669.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_174669.jpg"},"released":1}
{"id":14361,"title":"One Touch of Venus","year":"1948","job":"Screenplay","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/one-touch-of-venus","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_14361.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_14361.jpg"},"released":1}
1948
{"id":69273,"title":"Adventures of Don Juan","year":"1948","job":"Screenplay","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/adventures-of-don-juan","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_69273.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_69273.jpg"},"released":1}
{"id":69796,"title":"The Web","year":"1947","job":"Story","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/the-web","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/images\/fanart\/movies\/poster\/47h25nrh5100.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/images\/fanart\/movies\/poster\/47h25nrh5100.jpg"},"released":1}
1947
The Web
The Web as Story
{"id":69798,"title":"Something in the Wind","year":"1947","job":"Screenplay","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/something-in-the-wind","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_69798.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_69798.jpg"},"released":1}
{"id":70215,"title":"What Next, Corporal Hargrove?","year":"1945","job":"Writer","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/what-next-corporal-hargrove","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_70215.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_70215.jpg"},"released":1}
1945
{"id":14882,"title":"The Thin Man Goes Home","year":"1944","job":"Story","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/the-thin-man-goes-home","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_14882.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_14882.jpg"},"released":1}
1944
{"id":70477,"title":"See Here, Private Hargrove","year":"1944","job":"Screenplay","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/see-here-private-hargrove","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_70477.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_70477.jpg"},"released":1}
{"id":70844,"title":"They Got Me Covered","year":"1943","job":"Screenplay","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/they-got-me-covered","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_70844.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_70844.jpg"},"released":1}
1943
{"id":71283,"title":"Pacific Rendezvous","year":"1942","job":"Screenplay","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/pacific-rendezvous","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_71283.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_71283.jpg"},"released":1}
1942
{"id":14884,"title":"Shadow of the Thin Man","year":"1941","job":"Screenplay, Story","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/shadow-of-the-thin-man","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_14884.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_14884.jpg"},"released":1}
1941
Shadow of the Thin Man
Shadow of the Thin Man as Screenplay, Story
{"id":14202,"title":"I Love You Again","year":"1940","job":"Screenplay","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/i-love-you-again","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_14202.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_14202.jpg"},"released":1}
1940
I Love You Again
I Love You Again as Screenplay
{"id":72166,"title":"Fast and Furious","year":"1939","job":"Screenplay","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/fast-and-furious","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_72166.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_72166.jpg"},"released":1}
1939
Fast and Furious
Fast and Furious as Screenplay
{"id":95238,"title":"Fast and Loose","year":"1939","job":"Screenplay","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/fast-and-loose-1939","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_95238.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_95238.jpg"},"released":1}
Fast and Loose
Fast and Loose as Screenplay
{"id":72567,"title":"Fast Company","year":"1938","job":"Screenplay","permalink":"https:\/\/streambutter.com\/us\/movie\/fast-company-1938","type":"movie","srcset":{"1x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/90x135\/thumbs\/movie_72567.jpg","2x":"https:\/\/img.streambutter.com\/img\/180x270\/thumbs\/movie_72567.jpg"},"released":1}
1938
Fast Company
Fast Company as Screenplay