With the passing of Celeste Holm this past weekend, we lost yet another stalwart film, television and stage performer (and Academy Award winner to boot). In honor of her life and body of work, I have decided to feature a few of my favorite performances of hers.
The Snake Pit (1948): This is a favorite film of mine; a groundbreaking film at the time in that it explored mental illness and the facilities and people who are left to care for the mentally indigent. Her role (like so many of her roles) is a supporting one, but you remember her time onscreen.
A Letter to Three Wives (1949); voiceover as “Addie Ross” – while never seen onscreen (and not receiving an official screen credit), her presence looms large over all of the movie’s proceedings. For it is her “letter” that tells us that she has run off with one of our principal players’ (Linda Darnell, Jeanne Crain, Ann Sothern) husbands. Another old-school gem that you must see if you have not already done so.
All About Eve (1950) – yes the film is all about Eve Harrington and Margo Chandler, but Holm, as Karen Richards, Margo’s close friend, who brings the star-struck and plotting Eve into ‘their’ world. She is also there to offer the odd pithy one-liner.
What are some of your favorite Holm’s film performances?
ruth says
July 16, 2012 at 3:16 pmI have only seen her in Gentleman’s Agreement. She’s my fave character after Gregory [natch!], even in her brief role she was outstanding. I REALLY need to see All About Eve!
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iluvcinema says
July 16, 2012 at 11:02 pmAll About Eve is a definite – perfect blend of biting comedy and drama.
Paula says
July 16, 2012 at 9:47 pmHolm’s character really is very pivotal in ALL ABOUT EVE…if you think about it, she pretty much drives the story. I forgot that was her in LETTER TO THREE WIVES. These last couple weeks have been tough for classic movie fans…everything is changing so fast.
Paula recently posted..TCM Week – July 16-22
iluvcinema says
July 16, 2012 at 11:04 pmSo sad and so true, Paula.
As for her role in AAE, you are spot-on. She is third party way into the narrative.