Samson Raphaelson, an extraordinary American screenwriter and playwright, made his grand entrance into the world on March 30, 1894, in the bustling metropolis of New York, a city that would undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping his artistic endeavors. As he grew and matured, Raphaelson dedicated himself to refining his craft, his tireless efforts ultimately leading him to become a highly accomplished and versatile collaborator, working alongside some of the most celebrated directors of his time, including the illustrious Ernst Lubitsch and the masterful Alfred Hitchcock.
Raphaelson's remarkable cinematic legacy is characterized by a diverse and extensive repertoire of nine feature films, meticulously crafted in collaboration with the illustrious Ernst Lubitsch, renowned for his mastery of comedic timing and sophisticated storytelling. This impressive body of work not only showcases Raphaelson's exceptional skill as a screenwriter but also highlights his versatility as a creative force in the film industry.
Among his most notable collaborations with Lubitsch are the critically acclaimed films Trouble in Paradise (1932),a witty and charming romantic comedy that has stood the test of time, The Shop Around the Corner (1939),a poignant and beautifully crafted tale of unrequited love, and Heaven Can Wait (1943),a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition.
In addition to his work with Lubitsch, Raphaelson also co-wrote the suspenseful thriller Suspicion (1941) with the legendary Alfred Hitchcock, an experience he regarded as one of the most fulfilling and creatively stimulating of his career.
Raphaelson's multifaceted talents extended far beyond his impressive body of work in the cinematic realm, as he was also a skilled playwright, with his play "Day of Atonement" serving as the inspiration for the groundbreaking film "The Jazz Singer", a landmark motion picture that marked a significant turning point in the history of cinema, as it was the first film to incorporate synchronized dialogue, a revolutionary achievement that forever changed the face of the industry.
As a testament to his innovative spirit and mastery of his craft, Raphaelson's work on "The Jazz Singer" earned him a special place in the esteem of renowned director Ernst Lubitsch, who considered Raphaelson one of his favorite screenwriters, a distinction that speaks volumes about the high regard in which Raphaelson was held by his peers.
Raphaelson's professional endeavors transcended the realm of cinematic storytelling, as he collaborated with the illustrious Ernst Lubitsch on his sole dramatic feature film of the sound era, a poignant and thought-provoking motion picture titled Broken Lullaby, also known as The Man I Killed, which premiered in 1932.
Raphaelson's impressive body of work extends far beyond his notable filmography, as he also left an indelible mark on the world of music, specifically in the realm of collegiate fight songs. In 1921, he had the distinction of penning the college fight song for the University of Illinois, a composition that would go on to become an iconic and beloved anthem for the institution.
The song, titled "Fight, Illini!: The Stadium Song," would not have been complete without the musical accompaniment provided by Rose J. Oltusky, whose harmonious notes brought Raphaelson's lyrics to life.
Noted playwright and screenwriter, Raphaelson, left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment, earning widespread recognition and admiration throughout his illustrious career.
One of the most notable honors bestowed upon him was the prestigious "Laurel" award for lifetime achievement from the esteemed Writers Guild of America Awards in 1977.
In addition to his impressive body of work, Raphaelson also shared his wealth of knowledge and expertise with the next generation of writers by teaching playwriting at the renowned Columbia University.
Throughout his later years, he continued to impart his wisdom and guidance to aspiring playwrights, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of theater and beyond.
Raphaelson's life outside of his professional endeavors was characterized by a deeply affectionate and enduring marriage to Dorshka, whose maiden name was Dorothy Wegman, a talented performer who had the distinction of being a Ziegfeld Follies dancer. Additionally, Dorshka was a skilled author, and her literary endeavors resulted in the publication of a notable work titled 'Morning Song'. This remarkable individual's family tree boasts a notable figure in the realm of filmmaking, none other than Bob Rafelson, who is Raphaelson's nephew. Furthermore, the family's creative lineage extends to the next generation, with Paul Raphaelson, Raphaelson's grandson, being a photographer of great talent and skill.
Samson Raphaelson was a renowned American playwright, screenwriter, and author, whose life and career were marked by an unwavering dedication to his craft.
Born on June 30, 1896, in New York City, Raphaelson's early life was shaped by his Jewish heritage and the vibrant cultural landscape of Manhattan's Lower East Side.
As a young man, Raphaelson was drawn to the world of theater, and he began writing plays in his teenage years. His early work was heavily influenced by the works of Henrik Ibsen and the emerging trend of American Realism.
Raphaelson's breakthrough came with the 1936 play "The Jazz Singer," which was adapted into a film by Warner Bros. in 1927. The movie's groundbreaking use of synchronized dialogue and music revolutionized the film industry, and it remains one of the most influential movies of all time.
Throughout his long and distinguished career, Raphaelson wrote numerous plays, screenplays, and novels, often exploring themes of identity, community, and the human condition.
Raphaelson's work was widely acclaimed, and he was awarded numerous honors and accolades, including an Academy Award nomination for his screenplay for the 1945 film "The Razor's Edge."
Despite his many successes, Raphaelson remained humble and dedicated to his craft, continuing to write until his passing on December 20, 1987.
Throughout his life, Raphaelson was deeply committed to his Jewish heritage and the cultural traditions of his childhood. His work often reflected this heritage, and he was a vocal advocate for the preservation of Jewish culture and identity.
In recognition of his contributions to American literature and film, Raphaelson was posthumously awarded the Jewish Heritage Award in 1993.
Today, Raphaelson's work continues to be celebrated and studied by scholars and artists around the world, and his legacy serves as a testament to the power of art to transcend time and touch the human heart.
