All About Eve
Synopsis
Eve Harrington (Anne Baxter) is waiting backstage to meet her idol, talented but aging Broadway star Margo Channing (Bette Davis). It seems innocent enough as Eve explains that she has seen Margo in EVERY performance of her current play. Margo and her friends take Eve under their wing but only theatre critic Addison DeWitt (George Sanders) sees through Eve's evil plan, which is to take Margo's parts and her fiancé, Bill Simpson (Gary Merrill) too.
Critical Acclaim
Upon its release in 1950, All About Eve was met with widespread critical acclaim, quickly establishing itself as a classic. Critics hailed Joseph L. Mankiewicz's sharp screenplay and adept direction, as well as the exceptional performances by its lead actors, particularly Bette Davis. The film was lauded for its incisive and witty exploration of ambition and betrayal within the theatre world. Contemporary reviews recognized the film's unique narrative structure and sharp dialogue, cementing its status as an innovative work in Hollywood cinema.
Bosley Crowther of The New York Times praised the film as "a fine show, a remarkable picture," emphasizing its "brilliant" screenplay and Bette Davis's "superb" performance. Roger Ebert later described the film as "cynical and sophisticated," highlighting its enduring appeal. All About Eve holds a 99% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, indicative of its lasting admiration among critics. Modern reviews continue to commend the film's biting humor and the complexities of its characters, which contribute to its status as an enduring classic.
The film's success was reflected in its 14 Academy Award nominations, a record it held for decades, and its six wins, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Supporting Actor for George Sanders. Its influence extends beyond its immediate success, inspiring countless films and television shows that explore the darker sides of ambition and fame. The American Film Institute ranked All About Eve highly on its list of the greatest American films, ensuring its legacy as a quintessential study of the human condition within the ruthless world of show business.
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