Norma Aleandro, Argentinian actress, director, and screenwriter

Born on May 2, 1936, Norma Aleandro stands as an internationally acclaimed Argentine actress, screenwriter, theatre director, and author. Renowned for her extraordinary talent and extensive body of work, she is widely celebrated as one of Argentina's most prolific and revered actresses, firmly established as a cultural icon within her home country.

A Storied Acting Career: From Local Stages to Global Recognition

Aleandro's profound impact on cinema is perhaps best exemplified by her starring role in the powerful 1985 film The Official Story. This critically acclaimed work, which won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, saw Aleandro deliver a poignant performance that earned her the prestigious Best Actress Award at the Cannes Film Festival. The film itself was groundbreaking, courageously addressing the human rights abuses during Argentina's last military dictatorship, a theme that resonated deeply both domestically and internationally. Her versatility shone through in a diverse array of other successful films, including the poignant The Truce (1974), the captivating Cousins (1989), the introspective Autumn Sun (1996), the evocative The Lighthouse (1998), the beloved comedy-drama Son of the Bride (2001), and the socially observant Cama Adentro (2005). Demonstrating her exceptional range and international appeal, Aleandro also garnered significant recognition for her portrayal of Florencia Sánchez Morales in the 1987 film Gaby: A True Story, a performance that led to both a Golden Globe nomination and an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress, solidifying her status on the global stage.

Beyond the Screen: Stage, Writing, and Direction

Norma Aleandro's artistic contributions extend far beyond her celebrated on-screen performances. A talented screenwriter, she penned the script for the 1970 film The Inheritors, showcasing her narrative prowess. Her dedication to the performing arts also encompasses a distinguished theatre career, where she has captivated audiences in various plays, notably appearing in a production of Tracy Letts' acclaimed drama August: Osage County. Furthermore, Aleandro embraced the evolving landscape of television, starring in En terapia, the highly successful Argentine adaptation of the Israeli series BeTipul (known internationally as *In Treatment*), where her nuanced performance contributed to its critical acclaim.

Frequently Asked Questions About Norma Aleandro

What is Norma Aleandro best known for?
Norma Aleandro is most widely recognized for her starring role in the 1985 Oscar-winning film The Official Story, which also earned her the Best Actress Award at the Cannes Film Festival. She is also celebrated as a leading figure in Argentine cinema and theatre, particularly as a cultural icon.
Has Norma Aleandro received international awards?
Yes, she has received significant international accolades, including the Best Actress Award at the Cannes Film Festival for The Official Story. She also earned nominations for a Golden Globe and an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Gaby: A True Story.
Is Norma Aleandro only an actress?
No, Norma Aleandro is a multi-talented artist. In addition to her prolific acting career in film, television, and theatre, she is also a screenwriter, having written the film The Inheritors, and has worked as a theatre director.
What is her significance in Argentine culture?
Norma Aleandro is considered a cultural icon in Argentina due to her enduring career, her impactful performances in films that often reflect national identity and history (like The Official Story), and her consistent contributions to Argentine arts over several decades, making her a beloved national treasure.
Did she work in television?
Yes, she notably starred in the Argentine television series En terapia, which was an adaptation of the acclaimed Israeli series BeTipul (internationally known as *In Treatment*).