As a cinephile with a deep appreciation for the art of acting, I find myself utterly captivated by the mesmerizing performances of Gena Rowlands throughout her illustrious career. Her portrayal of Jerry Bondi in “Lonely Are the Brave” not only showcased her exceptional talent but also served as a testament to her versatility, playing a supportive role that was pivotal to the story’s unfolding.
Legendary actress Gena Rowlands, a two-time Golden Globe winner, had an illustrious and long-lasting career in Hollywood, lasting for several decades. Known for her exceptional acting abilities, she became a regular on the silver screen with her captivating performances. Notably, Rowlands was married to renowned actor and director John Cassavetes, and together they collaborated on an impressive ten critically acclaimed films that garnered them two Academy Award nominations for Rowlands’ outstanding acting. Their relationship, both personal and professional, was a remarkable one and played a significant role in solidifying their status as some of Hollywood’s most admired figures.
As a devoted cinephile, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing Gena Rowlands’ remarkable career unfold over the years. She graced our screens in numerous critically acclaimed films such as “A Woman Under the Influence,” “Gloria,” “Another Woman,” “Love Streams,” and even “The Notebook.” Remarkably, this talented actress continued to captivate audiences right through the ’80s, cementing her status as a true cinematic icon.
With great sadness, Gena Rowlands passed away at the age of 94 due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease. Her remarkable body of work is unlikely to be surpassed. Here are ten exceptional films starring Gena Rowlands.
10 A Woman Under the Influence (1974)
1974 found me captivated by the raw, poignant drama “A Woman Under the Influence“, directed by my husband John Cassavetes. I, Gena Rowlands, took on the powerful role of Mabel Longhetti, a Los Angeles housewife and mother to three. Mabel’s life was a complex dance between her inner turmoil – mental illness and alcoholism – and her desperate attempts to project a semblance of normalcy to the world around her. It was an unforgettable journey that left me, and I believe viewers everywhere, deeply moved.
Due to Mabel’s unstable behavior, her construction worker husband Nick (played by Peter Falk), who was deeply worried, ultimately chose to admit her to a healthcare facility temporarily, so that he could care for their kids on his own and wait for her recovery.
An Oscar-Worthy Independent Endeavor
Cassavetes wrote the movie “A Woman Under the Influence” tailored for Rowlands, as she deeply yearned to perform in a drama that explored the everyday challenges modern women encounter. They decided to adapt the script into a film to provide a more comprehensive portrayal of the complex protagonist.
As a passionate admirer, I can share that despite Hollywood’s indifference, Cassavetes personally financed the project and even approached movie theaters to screen our drama when no distributor was found. The labor of love eventually bore fruit, as A Woman Under the Influence brought my wife, Pia Rowlands, an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress and a Golden Globe win. Moreover, I, John Cassavetes, was also recognized with a Best Director nomination.
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9 Opening Night (1977)
In the 1977 psychological drama “Opening Night,” Rowlands masterfully demonstrated her versatility as a performer by portraying a stage actress undergoing a nervous breakdown. This film revolves around Myrtle Gordon, a fading star and chronic drinker, who embarks on a significant spiritual journey following the death of an overly devoted adolescent admirer.
As I gear up for my leading role in an off-Broadway production, I’m thrown off balance and deeply affected by this harrowing experience. Now, it’s about finding the strength within me to overcome this trauma and carry on with my passion for acting.
Rowlands’ Award-Winning Performance
Looking back, contemporary critics classify Opening Night as an art horror film. Unfortunately, it didn’t hold the attention of American moviegoers during its initial release in the U.S., but it resonated strongly with European audiences. In fact, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association recognized actress Rowlands for her powerful performance by nominating her for a Golden Globe Award.
The photograph was submitted and showcased at the Berlin International Film Festival, where it received exceptional praise. Subsequently, Rowlands earned the esteemed Silver Bear for Best Actress at this prestigious event. Since its debut, the film’s reputation has continued to grow, with Rowland’s acting performance being particularly acknowledged as one of her best.
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8 Gloria (1980)
In the 1980 film titled Gloria, Rowlands played the strong and determined lead character, Gloria Swenson. She was once the girlfriend of a ruthless New York mobster. After a gangster hit squad killed a young orphan’s family because the father had been an informant for the FBI, Gloria took pity on him.
In this scenario, Gloria unexpectedly takes charge as the hesitant caretaker for a troubled young boy. After discovering a damaging financial record book belonging to the mob, they find themselves forced into hiding and on the run from these dangerous individuals.
Gloria Dazzles & Wins the Golden Lion
At first, John Cassavetes wasn’t keen on directing the thriller; instead, he aimed to merely sell the story to a production company. However, when his wife, Gena Rowlands, was offered the lead part, he agreed to take up the director’s role as a gesture of support for her.
I was truly captivated when I first saw the extraordinary film, “Gloria,” which made a stunning debut at the Venice International Film Festival and claimed the prestigious Golden Lion award. For her outstanding performance, Julianne Moore, who played the title role, was once again recognized with an Academy Award and Golden Globe nomination. Remarkably, her character from “Gloria” also found a place on the American Film Institute’s AFI’s 100 Years… 100 Heroes & Villains list.
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7 Another Woman (1988)
Gena Reynolds collaborated with renowned director Woody Allen on his 1988 drama titled “Another Woman.” This film narrates the tale of Marion Post, a New York philosophy professor, who decides to take a sabbatical from work to focus on her ambition of writing a book and fulfilling her dream of becoming an author.
In a rental apartment she uses for writing, Marion listens unintentionally to deep and personal discussions between her psychiatrist neighbor and a patient, which makes her reflect on and reassess her own life.
Allen’s Drama Becomes a Retrospective Hit
Starring acting talents such as Mia Farrow, Gene Hackman, and Blythe Danner, the film Another Woman was a modest hit, both critically and commercially. Woody Allen’s narrative and direction were heavily influenced by his admiration for Ingmar Bergman and his film Wild Strawberries.
Contemporary reviewers have shown significant appreciation for the play “Another Woman,” often ranking it among Woody Allen’s finest works. The Daily Telegraph, in particular, praised its exceptional balance of tone and highlighted Mia Farrow’s performance as one of the best acting feats in any film directed by Allen.
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6 The Notebook (2004)
Acclaimed as one of the most memorable romantic films ever projected onto the big screen, the popular 2004 blockbuster The Notebook boasts a talented cast including Ryan Gosling, Rachel McAdams, James Garner, and Gena Reynolds. It narrates the moving and impactful love story between Allie Hamilton, a wealthy heiress, and Noah Calhoun, a lumber mill worker, set in 1940s South Carolina. Their intense connection transcends time, enduring separation, war, and rival suitors throughout the years.
A Bona Fide Romantic Cult Classic
In the adaptation based on Nicholas Spark’s work, the actors Garner and Rowlands portrayed mature versions of Noah and Allie, beautifully depicting their profound love story and relationship.
The movie “The Notebook” turned out to be an unexpected blockbuster at the cinema, earning over $117 million globally. It received acclaim for its compelling acting and deep narrative theme. In the ensuing two decades since its release, “The Notebook” has evolved into a beloved cult film that consistently moves viewers with its emotional impact. Rachel McAdams won Best Supporting Actress at the Golden Satellite Awards for her role in this tear-jerking production.
5 Love Streams (1984)
Rowlands acted alongside her husband John Cassavetes once more in his near-final film, titled “Love Streams“, a 1984 drama that delves into the tumultuous bond between siblings Robert Harmon and Sarah Lawson. As they grapple with their emotional burdens and deep-seated personal issues, they strive to heal and grow.
When Sarah, a woman recently divorced and dealing with mental instability, pays a visit to her troubled brother Robert, an alcoholic writer prone to self-destruction, they both find themselves confronting their individual struggles. This encounter triggers a series of events resulting in intense outcomes.
Cassavates & Rowlands Make Movie Magic
Drawing inspiration from Ted Allan’s play, the movie “Love Streams” deviated from Cassavetes’ usual directorial style, as it lacked his trademark hand-held camera shots despite being filmed in their Los Angeles residence (much like many of his projects). Cassavetes assumed the role of Robert Harmon, a character originally played by Jon Voight in the stage production. “Love Streams” garnered widespread critical praise for its compelling portrayal of characters and exceptional scriptwriting.
In me, there’s an unbridled enthusiasm for a film that has captivated the prestigious Berlin International Film Festival with its Golden Bear award. This movie is also a recipient of the ultimate accolade in the world of cinema – a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes!
4 Faces (1968)
In his 1968 drama titled “Faces“, filmmaker John Cassavetes relied on the skills of his frequent collaborators such as Gena Rowlands, Seymour Cassel, John Marley, Fred Draper, and Lynn Carlin to portray the tumultuous end of Richard and Maria Forst’s marriage, and show how their separation affected those around them deeply.
In the unveiled image, Rowlands can be seen as Jeannie Rapp, a woman noticeably younger than him, whom he develops a romantic interest in. Meanwhile, his separated spouse Maria is found to be entertaining her own advances from a younger man named Cassel.
A Revealing & Intimate Production
The movie “Faces” was funded solely by Cassavetes and Rowlands themselves, using a budget of only $275,000. Instead of paying the actors in advance, they agreed to share profits with them later on.
For eight months, filming occurred at the residence of a renowned Hollywood duo, under the guidance of Cassavetes who directed the movie, Faces, in a documentary-like manner using black and white cinematography to emphasize the genuine anguish and feelings portrayed by the characters. This powerful production was recognized with three Academy Award nominations, particularly for Best Original Screenplay, and it garnered the Pasinetti Prize at the Venice International Film Festival.
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3 Unhook the Stars (1996)
In 1996, Rowlands collaborated with her director son Nick Cassavetes on the film “Unhook the Stars.” This moving drama portrays the heartwarming bond between Mildred, a caring widow played by Rowlands, and her neighbor Monica (Tomei), a free-spirited woman struggling to care for her young son J.J. while trying to support her family after leaving an abusive husband. As Mildred offers sanctuary to Monica and J.J., she too finds solace in rediscovering her personal identity and purpose in life.
Rowlands Steals the Show
Despite not quite setting the box office alight, “Unhook the Stars” undeniably showcased Julianne Moore’s effortless charisma and commanding on-screen presence. Her charming chemistry with Marisa Tomei left audiences smitten. Critics widely agreed that Moore elevated the drama and transcended its somewhat ordinary screenplay, masterfully portraying the internal turmoil of her character. As a fan, I was captivated by her nuanced performance.
In their glowing review, Time Out wrote,
A heartfelt, truthful exploration of the apparent restrictions confronting a woman, whose spirit and zest for life outshine her actual years, allowing her to revel in joy whenever the chance arises.
2 Lonely Are the Brave (1962)
In her initial film appearance, the talented actress Gena Rowlands played opposite the esteemed Kirk Douglas in the 1962 Western movie “Lonely Are the Brave,” which was based on the Edward Abbey novel “The Brave Cowboy.” The story revolves around Korean War veteran John W. “Jack” Burns, portrayed by Douglas, who prefers working on a ranch and avoiding contemporary society. To help his close friend Paul Bondi (played by Michael Kane), Burns intentionally gets arrested.
Rowlands’ Showcases Her Stellar Acting Prowess
In this scenario, Paul Bondi’s spouse, Jerry (played by Rowlands), steps in to aid Jack when he manages to break out of prison alone, as Paul refuses to assist him. Subsequently, a widespread manhunt commences following Jack’s escape, with Sheriff Morey Johnson (portrayed by Walter Matthau) pursuing the cunning fugitive with unwavering determination and persistence.
The film “Lonely Are the Brave” earned praise for Douglas’ compelling performance as a determined character overwhelmed by contemporary marvels, along with its visually stunning cinematography and profound theme. Later, Douglas himself acknowledged this critically acclaimed Western as one of his most cherished roles.
1 Minnie and Moskowitz (1971)
Regular teammates Rowlands and Seymour Cassel truly shone in their roles for John Cassavetes’ 1971 romantic comedy-drama titled “Minnie and Moskowitz“. The film revolves around the life of Minnie Moore, a museum curator who is struggling to move on after ending an abusive relationship with a married man.
When Minnie encounters the unconventional, bearded parking attendant named Seymour Moskowitz, a noticeable attraction ignites between them, even though they appear to be an unusual pair due to their significant differences.
A Fictional Relationship Mirrors Real Life
As a passionate movie enthusiast, I found myself engrossed in the offbeat charm of “Minnie and Moskowitz,” a low-budget production backed by Universal Studios, aiming to rekindle the unparalleled success of the 1969 indie road drama, “Easy Rider.” With John Cassavetes at the helm, he turned to his trusted troupe – Seymour Cassel and Gena Rowlands – to breathe life into this eccentric film. Each brought their distinct flair to their characters, perfectly encapsulating the peculiar and improbable romance unfolding on screen.
Spectrum Culture pointed out the resemblance between the romantic dynamics of the fictional duo and those of Cassavetes and Rowlands, expressing this observation in their analysis.
“In a realistic and poignant way, John Cassavetes based the unusual romance between Minnie and Moskowitz on aspects of his own relationship with Gena Rowlands. Although their compatibility appears questionable, their eventual bond feels authentic and moving.”
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2024-08-20 03:02