In memory of Karl-Heinz Teuber (Tuesday, February 2, 1937 ~ Thursday, November 14, 2024) seen here, in his film debut, playing the wig salesperson opposite Tom Hulce’s Mozart in the iconic “three heads” scene* from ‘Amadeus’ (1984).
Interestingly, on set Karl in his true capacity, was in fact, the assistant hair and makeup person for the production (his “bending hair” helping to snag the Academy Award-sweeping feature yet another win). This bit part, apropos to Karl’s then profession, was director Milo’s Forman’s onscreen reward to Karl for all his intensive labor.
Having earned it, Karl could rightly take pride, ‘Amadeus’arguably being the quintessential exploit crowning his stellar career.** The role was an honor.
And for nearly four decades, this notable person was also an intimate acquaintance of mine till we eventually went our separate ways. Nevertheless, I am profoundly surprised and sadden by the news of my former friend’s unfortunate and untimely demise .
That said, he has at last attained his one, driving desire and become, in effect, a star - a luminary now solely comprised of light, shadow, and sound, removed and remote, forever reaching down to us from the past - the final, heavenly curtain having lowered on his person, his vocation, and calling.
Karl was eighty seven.
Rest in Peace.
*Scene 44
**Karl often use to speak of ‘Amadeus’ “living on” for him long after he was gone, taking comfort in that knowledge and prospect. His would be a celluloid immortality, Karl assured himself.
That there now exists, only the celluloid memory, I for one, find it bitter at best; a cold comfort and solace alas.
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