A Magnificent Film Classic What more can be said about this greatly cherished account of backstage life in the world of theatre? A brilliantly acted film with a superlative screenplay, ingeniously cast with fine direction & a memorable music score, this movie really couldn't miss - and it didn't. It is very doubtful that there will ever be another film which will equal (or even rival) this incisively cynical & sophisticated comedy/drama masterpiece from 195O. Bette Davis - as a replacement for the assigned Claudette Colbert who hurt her back - gives what many believe to be her finest, flashiest performance as Margo Channing, the insecure 4O year-old diva of the theatre. Davis plays her role with such assured relish that it's practically unthinkable that another actress could be more effective in the part. During the production, Davis strained her vocal chords, which gave Margo that distinctive husky voice a'la Tallulah Bankhead: it was an ironically lucky stroke of timing! So much has been written about this film, so I will try to shed some rarer light on it. It was noted that Claudette Colbert deeply resented Davis due to the fact that felt helplessly "robbed" of this prime dream role: she alternately envied and despised Davis for taking Margo away from her and playing her with such brilliance. George Sanders was perfection personified as poison pen critic Addison DeWitt: he won the Best Supporting Actor AA. Months later, at a cocktail party, Sanders recalled that Davis spat at him after he remarked "What's wrong, Bette? Sour grapes"?. Davis intimidated Marilyn Monroe, bluntly stating that her "baby talk" voice was atrociously ridiculous. When Celeste Holm would appear on the set and spread a cheery "Good morning", Davis would disgustedly respond "Oh, these TER-RI-BLE good mannahs!" Holm was cool to "the Queen Bee of Warners" as she referred to Davis ever after. Most fans know that Davis coveted the New York Film Critics Award for her playing of Margo and that she and Gary Merrill fell into a rather lusty love affair during production. As Margo's loyal companion, Birdie Coonan, Thelma Ritter is tops & Celeste Holm is perfect as the kindly humble Karen: she and Margo have a most interesting contrast in personalities, which is best showcased in the classic scene in the car while Lloyd is out fetching some emergency gasoline. For years, the film held the record for being nominated for the most Academy Awards: 14. If you want to see this gem in all its glory, invest in the DVD version: it's crisp, sharp & clear. My favourite goof? Look at the clock on Margo's bedside table: time stands still!