How can you not love Thelma Ritter? In just about every movie she was in, she had that brand of "in your face" honesty but you always knew her rough demeanor was not because she was hateful or insulting, but because she truly cared!
@@valve6642 You know their names. They were household names in the past. Us back then knew their work/roles. We watched them celebrated by the film/tv industry. They were not underrated. As Shirley Booth wasn't underrated. Ann & Shirley had tv shows of their own. You got to have lived then to know they were famous thespians.
It is the best scene, because its when Margo finally realises that Eve is not the person she thought and is up to no good. Great acting by all 3 women in this scene.😊 👏
What I love about the relationship between Margot and Birdie is that they aren't delicate or even especially kind to each other but there's obviously deep trust and a grudging respect there. Very much like a marriage.
I think you're wrong bruh. True, they aren't delicate women but in their own way they are VERY kind to each other and love each other as friends very deeply. Who else but a close friend can you "tell it like it is" to without fear of being alienated? Birdie had the love and respect for Margo to tell her what Eve was up to as she recognized it and did not want Margo to get hurt.
@@retroguy9494 I think what WikeddTung means is that they are not above trading the most penetrating wisecracks. They know each other too well. I love when Thelma Ritter says "Oh brother... All a sudden she's playin' Hamlet's mother." Friends can do that. "Bruh."
@@independentfilmchannel1476 You're 100% right. These people insist on "love" and "kindness" without citing any specific moment to back it up. The one "kind" gesture Birdie can be said to make toward Margo in the whole film; at the party where Margo is drunk and sitting with the piano player forcing him to play Liebesträume while feeling sorry for herself, Berdie offers her a cup of coffee to sober up... Margo dumps the olive from her martini in the cup and waves her away! It's a brilliant summation of their relationship. They trust and respect each other but there's no softness to it.
Such great writing. It's obvious that there is a lot of history between Margo and Birdie. Without being told any of the details of their years-long friendship, their "hair down" attitude with each other indicates a strong bond. They need very few words to communicate with one another.
My favorite scene from "All About Eve" -- Thelma Ritter never gave a bad performance, she is always great. And Bette and Thelma looking at each other when Eve leaves the room is a master class in the use of eyes in acting. Thanks for posting this clip.
@@independentfilmchannel1476 True, a much farther edge in its ability to collectively use an enriched vocabulary, crisp wit, biting sarcasm, and shrewd observations to create the most scintillating, dialogue driven story ever filmed, one that cleverly educated us about Eve’s evolution from mouse to monster, unbeknownst to any first time viewer, every character so clearly defined, a literary masterpiece. Casablanca excellent, but less riveting.
As much as I love "Citizen Kane", I've always thought "All About Eve" was the better picture. This scene is one of the reasons why. Thank you for posting this.
I would say All About Eve is the more entertaining picture, for obvious reasons. But Citizen Kane is certainly a more grandeur, magnificent and groundbreaking film, widely considered as THE most influencial film of all time. The cinematography completely innovated cinema, the storytelling pretty much invented film narrative, the broken american dream theme, it's just god's work.
@@sunnygolightly9996 "widely considered"... By the american audiences mind you! It is no doubt a great movie and probably one of the best of american Cinema. That said, other movies from around the world are way superior, both that came before and after Citizen Kane. My pick is 8 1/2 by Fellini for the meta narrative about making a movie, the peculiar use of black and white, photography, iconicity, camera use.
This film is a masterpiece. It makes you see virtues such as kindness and modesty as weapons people use to undermine and destroy others simply because they have everything they want. Brilliant film
This really is a perfect scene in a script of remarkable scenes. Davis and Baxter are flawless, but it's Thelma Ritter who impresses most. She is the voice of truth and reason here--as she is in many of her performances. The entire narrative pivots on this one scene.
This is a great point. And it’s very telling that it’s someone lowly from Margo’s past who talks some sense - Birdie is not yet immersed in the perks of the theater to kid herself the way everyone else (except maybe Bill) does.
That's some damn acting there. Bette just lets out that smoke instead of speaking. Three great performances for three grown women, when they wrote great parts for female stars.
Thelma Ritter was a true classic as a character actor. She stands out even in her short scene as the frazzled Christmas shopper in 'Miracle on 34th Street.'
70 years later this movie holds up. This clip was a great scene, but I would also want to add the party in its entirety--fasten your seat belts................Unforgettable
It's fkn stupendous. I'm an 80s kid and by no means a diligent student of film, but I can say with confidence that they don't write, act, film or make 'em like this anymore.
It is no wonder that this film ranks as the best of all time on the list of so many cinephiles, the writing alone ranks as the very best dialogue driven script in history, matched by performances that did justice to each and every word, so flawless and true to charachter, it almost felt like we were just eavesdropping on real persons. Davis’s best and there never has been anyone or will ever be as perfect as Thelma Ritter, born to play Birdie, as she does here magnificently. When she exits the room and makes eye contact with Margo, she gives us another page of dilaloge expressing everything she is thinking without ever uttering a single word, brilliant!
Thelma Ritter delivered those lines in the way Maggie Smith does now. She was never the star, but she was the most important element in so many films. Today we see great performances in starring roles by actors who are not “beautiful”, but what we don’t see are great performances by actors of this character. No one is writing these intelligent scripts for women.
Man! I love this film! Anne Baxter has a great voice, I remember seeing her in an interview and I'd never realised what a great speaking voice she has. Three great talents, Thelma Ritter, Anne Baxter and Bette Davis. (Must admit, I love Celeste Holm too, she's so good at playing an absolute sweetheart 😸)
@@bkynbiker19 I love her, she always does a great job - I think she would have been great to invite to a dinner party, she'd have great stories and I imagine she'd be a great raconteur 😊
Nobody has...or will...ever perfect 'the look' that davis gave in that scene. Genius acting....smooth and uncontrived...top of her game in this brilliant film. One of my utmost faves!!!!!
One of my all time favorite films...great acting, brilliant screenplay! Bette Davis, Anne Baxter, Thelma Ritter, George Sanders, Celeste Holm, and Marilyn Monroe!
This scene is a mini-masterclass in brilliant acting…Thelma brings the best in honest acting, just as Monty Clift and Marlon Brando did, to the screen. 🎬❤️🎬
That was the toughest year ever, Anne Baxter as Eve was also nominated, Gloria Swanson in Sunseet Boulevard, Eleanor Parker gave a brilliant performance in Caged, but alas, I think the votes got split by all of this talent, making the surprise winner Judy Holliday for her comically genius performance as Billie Dawn in Born Yesterday. It just was impossible to say who was better that year, they all were worthy of an Oscar that year for some of the most iconic performance is film history.
Anne Baxter insisted on being nominated in the Best Actress category instead of Best Supporting so the votes were split and somehow Judy Holliday won. The race was really between Bette and Gloria Swanson.
@@tharold8639 That’s a fascinating new piece of trivia that I never heard before. As hindsight would have it, that was not a very wise decision on her part and one that was maybe too ambitious at that point in her career, but believing it was possible having already won the supporting actress Oscar prior and felt the Academy had certified her as being worthy of a best actress Oscar. With that decision, she created one of the most competitive list of nominees in Oscar history, even multiple nominated Eleanor Parker gave a performance that was equally well lauded that year and she could have easily been the Judy Holiday of the night as well. If she remained in the supporting category, she would have assured herself another win, then the best actress Oscar would have undoubtedly gone to Bette Davis, only possibly upset by Miss Swanson’s over the top Norma Desmond, which maybe some would have found a bit camp to reward, leaving Davis’s flawless, nuanced performances as the one to beat and would be winner, which would have been the perfect tribute to the film for posterity.
@@gsolomonla You have summed it up perfectly and that is exactly what transpired. I understand Baxter's feelings but it was a grave error on her part because she had an awesome chance of another Oscar, albeit in the Supporing Actress category, and then Bette in most probability would have won for her phenomenal and still unforgettable and so authentic performance. Maybe too as Baxter was a Fox contract player and that Darryl Zanuck and Bette weren't exactly buddies had something to do with it too. Really highway robbery, in my opinion, and in this case, for both actresses. Thanks for your great synopsis.
I love love love this movie my favorite movie of all time I actually watched it for the first time when I was about 14 fell in love with Betty Davis what an actress here I am 63 and still love and Betty Davis 💜💜💜
So much could be written about the Psychology going within this film It remains an excellent study of the Narcissistic - Sociopath represented by Margo and Eve, the latter being the most Toxic. What is so scary about the film is that there are indeed Personalities like "Eve' in life. People who are Opportunists, Manipulators, Cold-blooded, Narcissistic. This film helped me to recognize, these kind of people in the workplace and romantic liaisons, and how to distance myself from their skullduggery and to OUT them.
This is one of the greatest films ever made. 4 wonderful female parts, which these great actors devour. Miss D, and Miss R, knock sparks off each other. A classic film.
Loved Thelma Ritter from the first time I saw her in "Miracle of 34th Street." She did more in her two minutes of screen time than other actors could do in two hours!
@@harperstacey9604 I see your comments all over, always ending "From Ms. Harper Stacey." Could you indulge me? I've got a sushi lunch riding on this bet. One of us says you're a woman; one of us says you're a gay male. Which is right?
@@akrenwinkle I am a female. The reason I sign my comments because a lot of people think that Harper is only a man's name when it's also a woman's name, too. From Ms. Harper Stacey 💜.
@@harperstacey9604 It might be easier to use the screen name Ms. Harper Tracey, but as the kids write in fractured English, "To each their own." In my entire long life, I've only heard of one person with the first name Harper, and that is the author Harper Lee. As you know, she wrote "To Kill a Mockingbird" and you might be named for her.
Another brilliant scene is when they run out of gas and Bette delivers Margo’s soliloquy about being a woman, it is raw, in its soul searching truth, coming down from the lofty celebrity in which she lives and see life in a very real way about what’s missing from her life, knowing all of the fluff and fame does not make you happy. She deserved the Oscar.
Many great b&w movies from back in the day. But "All About Eve", "Sunset Boulevard" and ""Casablanca" are near if not perfection. I also just adore "Now Voyager" which I only recently saw!!
Just watching that makes me want to dig out my DVD and start watching ... One of those absolutely perfect movies. Thelma Ritter elevated every film she was in, even if they were average. 'All about Eve' was perfection but Ms Ritter was an integral part of the whole. Brava!
Richard-You will go on, and you'll give the performance of your life..😂..some many wonderful monologues... Birdie-Everything but the bloodhounds nipping at her heels..😂
How do I even rate my favorite scene in my favorite movie?? I'll go with ANY scene with Thelma Ritter is perfection in this (and any film). Birdie is my spirit animal..."Like an agent with only one client"..LOL!!
@@bushwickbaby You mean like their soul leaving their body to communicate with you while they are still alive? Like the stuff people believed in during the 1600's which eventually led to the Salem witch trials? "Spectral evidence" they called it.
This entire movie is my favorite. But if I had to pick one favorite scene, it would be a tie between this one and Bill's birthday party and the line "Fasten your seatbelts. It's going to be a bumpy night." Classic Bette Davis!
One of the GREATEST movies ever!! The dialog alone is exceptional. The casting & acting was perfection. I watch this movie at least once a month just as a reminder of what was but is no more.
The whole film seems like it’s something we are eavesdropping on, the most realistic performances, as if we are not seeing Bette Davis and there really is a Margo Channing and a Birdie.
Me too! My favorite Ritter line is when she looks over Eve's redecoration of Margo's dressing room and says, "It's got everything a dressing room needs except a basketball hoop." LOL!
For my money, Baxter has the hardest role. All sweet and innocent, Anne is acting like she's acting here. It's only much later she drops the act and the claws came out.
LOVE THIS SCENE! (and many scenes in this movie, lol...chocked full of one liners and sarcasm and whit) Birdie knew the deal from the start! Bette and Thelma old pro's of the acting field! Birdie could see thru Eve all the time! Oh please catch the SHADE Birdie gives Eve as Eve approaches the bed to talk to Margo, lol........no eye contact, no acknowledgement....LOVE IT! lol) WAIT...the look from Margo when Eve says: as a matter of fact, I sent him one myself. lol.....Birdie's exit and look......SEE? I told you!
The crucial scene in this great movie. All three actresses do their jobs with perfection in establishing a dynamic. Joseph L. Mankiewicz directs with full, incisive realization of what it all means.
This film is required watching for anyone who wants to know about the unpleasant corners of human nature. I've known a few Eve's in my short life and because of this film I was ALWAYS able to see them coming.
There is a young Eve in our school who is a teacher. She can't do enough for our principal including functioning as the principal's spy. That is how you get promoted in the school system.
I have always considered this movie a”perfect” movie along the lines of Citizen Kane & Gone With the Wind. Script is perfection and everyone sparkles. This is my favorite scene too, thanks!
Thelma Ritter was always so good in any film she was in. She may not have had major roles but she always made her roles memorable. The hallmark of a great character actress.
It’s a terrific scene. It tells a lot about who the characters are, or think they are I still think the staircase scene is the best. Thelma Ritter is the most wonderful and important character actor in movie history she becomes the gold setting holding up the jewel, Bette Davis.
This a _great_ scene, but I wouldn’t say it’s the _best_ scene....that’s purely a matter of opinion. Let’s say it’s your favorite scene. I couldn’t isolate one, bc each is so damned good and the actors are so damned good! The script is just amazing!! I love the “incomplete forward pass” scene, especially Eve’s response after Bill leaves, and the scene between Addison DeWitt and Eve when she tells him _her_ version of hooking up with Lloyd and he tells her he owns her!
The best for each character I think. This was Thelma at her best. George had "you're too short for that move", Anne had "it's my part now", and Bette had "buckle up".
Three GREATS!!! The best part: we are taken in to the bedroom and forget we are watching folks pretending to be fictional characters! Now that details a masterpiece!
Thelma Ritter will always be one of my favorites of all time! So was Bette Davis but to be honest in every single movie Thelma is in she steals the scene. Theres no competition
Oh hell!!!! Bette Davis the greatest actress of all time!!! This specific character was made to be played by her! One of my all time favorites, there no movies like this one made nowadays, could it be that we don’t have the will to make something this good now???? Seems like that to me...🥺
On the subject of best scenes: Let’s not forget the final scene of the film, with Eve and “Phoebe”, where finally the true Eve is revealed. The film could have ended at the awards banquet, with Margot’s line “…where your heart ought to be”. (In fact the radio-play version of the film does end there.) Instead, almost as a bonus, we are given that extraordinary coda in Eve’s apartment.
The acting of Bette and Thelma Ritter in all their scenes together was phenomenal, even without spoken dialog. What a film!!
Thelma ritter was also good in the film, rear window. From Ms. Harper Stacey.
How can you not love Thelma Ritter? In just about every movie she was in, she had that brand of "in your face" honesty but you always knew her rough demeanor was not because she was hateful or insulting, but because she truly cared!
That “I rest my case” look that Birdie has. Beautifully done
@@thegreatestman851 And Margot tacitly admitting she was right.
What a story everything but the bloodhounds snappin at her ASS!
That look at the end of the scene as she's leaving the room! Thelma Ritter was always a gem -- entirely ignored, underrated.
Don't know if I'd say ignored, with something like 6 Oscar nominations. Granted, she should have won at least ONE of them of course ...
She also shared a tony with Gwen Friggn' Verdon
She wasn't ignored. She was a character actor. She worked. She was among the A list. I remember watching all her work in the 1970's.
So TRUE. Thelma Ritter, Agnes Morehead, Ann Southern so underrated
@@valve6642 You know their names. They were household names in the past. Us back then knew their work/roles. We watched them celebrated by the film/tv industry. They were not underrated. As Shirley Booth wasn't underrated. Ann & Shirley had tv shows of their own. You got to have lived then to know they were famous thespians.
Thelma Ritter's look back at Bette tells us what a great actor she was and was why she was cast in so many films.
ONE look is worth a page of dialogue from the script. Thats the sign of a true actress
@@bo2720 And that poor woman(Thelma Ritter ) never won an academy award for Best Supporting Actress, what a horrible shame!!!!!
@@scottmiller6495 some people starve
It is the best scene, because its when Margo finally realises that Eve is not the person she thought and is up to no good. Great acting by all 3 women in this scene.😊 👏
You can hear her saying in her mind “Don’t say I didn’t warn ya!”
What I love about the relationship between Margot and Birdie is that they aren't delicate or even especially kind to each other but there's obviously deep trust and a grudging respect there. Very much like a marriage.
Kindness? I see a deep and abiding love. Margot is the employer but she accepts admonishment and advice from Birdie as one would from a mother.
I think you're wrong bruh. True, they aren't delicate women but in their own way they are VERY kind to each other and love each other as friends very deeply. Who else but a close friend can you "tell it like it is" to without fear of being alienated? Birdie had the love and respect for Margo to tell her what Eve was up to as she recognized it and did not want Margo to get hurt.
@@retroguy9494 I think what WikeddTung means is that they are not above trading the most penetrating wisecracks. They know each other too well. I love when Thelma Ritter says "Oh brother... All a sudden she's playin' Hamlet's mother." Friends can do that. "Bruh."
@@independentfilmchannel1476 You're 100% right. These people insist on "love" and "kindness" without citing any specific moment to back it up.
The one "kind" gesture Birdie can be said to make toward Margo in the whole film; at the party where Margo is drunk and sitting with the piano player forcing him to play Liebesträume while feeling sorry for herself, Berdie offers her a cup of coffee to sober up... Margo dumps the olive from her martini in the cup and waves her away! It's a brilliant summation of their relationship. They trust and respect each other but there's no softness to it.
Such great writing. It's obvious that there is a lot of history between Margo and Birdie. Without being told any of the details of their years-long friendship, their "hair down" attitude with each other indicates a strong bond. They need very few words to communicate with one another.
My favorite scene from "All About Eve" -- Thelma Ritter never gave a bad performance, she is always great. And Bette and Thelma looking at each other when Eve leaves the room is a master class in the use of eyes in acting. Thanks for posting this clip.
Absolutely brilliant acting. One of the best movies ever made. Love the rapport between Bette and Thelma. Class act.
Your comment just nailed it !!!
Your so right !
Thank you
Fabulous
Haha totally! She's leaves that room like, Hmpf... told ya...
👀👀👀👋👏👋👏🇫🇷 Arnuad Bourbon Amaral
There’s not a bad scene in this whole movie. Brilliant.
Well said. It's perfection!
Agreed. A near perfect script with a dream cast!
I don't know the opening scene at the awards ceremony feels slow and drags.
"You want an argument or an answer?" Birdie's so sharp she'd cut herself.
Wow you're good 👍
One of the best scripts ever written for an American film.
Joe Mankiewicz so brilliant as was his work for A Letter to Three Wives, a literary genius,
All About Eve and Casablanca have the greatest dialog ever, with Eve getting the slight edge.
@@independentfilmchannel1476
True, a much farther edge in its ability to collectively use an enriched vocabulary, crisp wit, biting sarcasm, and shrewd observations to create the most scintillating, dialogue driven story ever filmed, one that cleverly educated us about Eve’s evolution from mouse to monster, unbeknownst to any first time viewer, every character so clearly defined, a literary masterpiece. Casablanca excellent, but less riveting.
As much as I love "Citizen Kane", I've always thought "All About Eve" was the better picture. This scene is one of the reasons why. Thank you for posting this.
I would say All About Eve is the more entertaining picture, for obvious reasons. But Citizen Kane is certainly a more grandeur, magnificent and groundbreaking film, widely considered as THE most influencial film of all time. The cinematography completely innovated cinema, the storytelling pretty much invented film narrative, the broken american dream theme, it's just god's work.
@@sunnygolightly9996 "widely considered"... By the american audiences mind you! It is no doubt a great movie and probably one of the best of american Cinema. That said, other movies from around the world are way superior, both that came before and after Citizen Kane. My pick is 8 1/2 by Fellini for the meta narrative about making a movie, the peculiar use of black and white, photography, iconicity, camera use.
This film is a masterpiece. It makes you see virtues such as kindness and modesty as weapons people use to undermine and destroy others simply because they have everything they want. Brilliant film
This really is a perfect scene in a script of remarkable scenes. Davis and Baxter are flawless, but it's Thelma Ritter who impresses most. She is the voice of truth and reason here--as she is in many of her performances. The entire narrative pivots on this one scene.
This is a great point. And it’s very telling that it’s someone lowly from Margo’s past who talks some sense - Birdie is not yet immersed in the perks of the theater to kid herself the way everyone else (except maybe Bill) does.
Spot on
Such a good movie. Can't get tired of it
I love how Eve let's her guard slip just a bit and twists the knife talking about the telegram.
Yes, almost like firing a subtle warning shot, with the arched eyebrow etc
@@bkynbiker19 There was nothing subtle about that warning shot.
That's some damn acting there. Bette just lets out that smoke instead of speaking. Three great performances for three grown women, when they wrote great parts for female stars.
The shadiest dialogue ever! Then, that parting glance as Birdie (Ms. Ritter) closes that door! Brilliant!
Eve showed her true colors in the scene. From Ms. Harper Stacey.
Thelma Ritter was a true classic as a character actor. She stands out even in her short scene as the frazzled Christmas shopper in 'Miracle on 34th Street.'
Haha that is her! The poor mom who has been everywhere looking for the one thing her son wants for Christmas.
The way these women can act using only their eyes - magnificent! It’s easy to see why all three earned Oscar nominations.
I totally agree that this is the best scene - it is a scene that has always stuck with me. It is wonderful writing, character, and great acting.
70 years later this movie holds up. This clip was a great scene, but I would also want to add the party in its entirety--fasten your seat belts................Unforgettable
It's fkn stupendous. I'm an 80s kid and by no means a diligent student of film, but I can say with confidence that they don't write, act, film or make 'em like this anymore.
That look from Thelma Ritter as she exits, pretty much sums up what Eve is all about!
I like how she walks in front of Eve without an excuse me.
@@lindaosika7648 Yes,indeed!💯 Love it!💜
@@sweetbeauty2153 ditto!
It is no wonder that this film ranks as the best of all time on the list of so many cinephiles, the writing alone ranks as the very best dialogue driven script in history, matched by performances that did justice to each and every word, so flawless and true to charachter, it almost felt like we were just eavesdropping on real persons. Davis’s best and there never has been anyone or will ever be as perfect as Thelma Ritter, born to play Birdie, as she does here magnificently. When she exits the room and makes eye contact with Margo, she gives us another page of dilaloge expressing everything she is thinking without ever uttering a single word, brilliant!
I love Thelma Ritter. She always had the best retorts “You want an argument or an answer “”
Someday,I'll use this line..hopefully!..😂
Good thing writers thought of all those retorts for her
Thelma Ritter delivered those lines in the way Maggie Smith does now. She was never the star, but she was the most important element in so many films.
Today we see great performances in starring roles by actors who are not “beautiful”, but what we don’t see are great performances by actors of this character. No one is writing these intelligent scripts for women.
Everything Thelma did in her career was priceless. Love her wit and comic timing. Brilliant character actress.
Man! I love this film!
Anne Baxter has a great voice, I remember seeing her in an interview and I'd never realised what a great speaking voice she has. Three great talents, Thelma Ritter, Anne Baxter and Bette Davis. (Must admit, I love Celeste Holm too, she's so good at playing an absolute sweetheart 😸)
...which showed what a good actress Celeste was lol
@@bkynbiker19 I love her, she always does a great job - I think she would have been great to invite to a dinner party, she'd have great stories and I imagine she'd be a great raconteur 😊
Norma Desmond: "I can say anything with my eyes." This scene proves it.
So sad Thelma Ritter's character disappeared in the second half of the movie...
I always wondered why that happened.
That view from the maid and that view from Bette in the very end of that scene. It says it all. Splendid.
Eve is spinning her web and Thelma's look to Bette is saying " your days are numbered this one wants your crown!"
Utter perfection. EVERY scene, every line...just brilliant. One of the best films ever made.
I AM SURE YOUR WIFE LOVES IT TOO
Nobody has...or will...ever perfect 'the look' that davis gave in that scene. Genius acting....smooth and uncontrived...top of her game in this brilliant film. One of my utmost faves!!!!!
NO
One of my all time favorite films...great acting, brilliant screenplay! Bette Davis, Anne Baxter, Thelma Ritter, George Sanders, Celeste Holm, and Marilyn Monroe!
This scene is a mini-masterclass in brilliant acting…Thelma brings the best in honest acting, just as Monty Clift and Marlon Brando did, to the screen. 🎬❤️🎬
My fave movie and the best scene in a movie full of best scenes. Thanks for posting!
Bette certainly should have gotten her third Oscar for this.
Totally - although Gloria Swanson in "Sunset Blvd." that same year was also amazing.
That was the toughest year ever, Anne Baxter as Eve was also nominated, Gloria Swanson in Sunseet Boulevard, Eleanor Parker gave a brilliant performance in Caged, but alas, I think the votes got split by all of this talent, making the surprise winner Judy Holliday for her comically genius performance as Billie Dawn in Born Yesterday.
It just was impossible to say who was better that year, they all were worthy of an Oscar that year for some of the most iconic performance is film history.
Anne Baxter insisted on being nominated in the Best Actress category instead of Best Supporting so the votes were split and somehow Judy Holliday won. The race was really between Bette and Gloria Swanson.
@@tharold8639
That’s a fascinating new piece of trivia that I never heard before. As hindsight would have it, that was not a very wise decision on her part and one that was maybe too ambitious at that point in her career, but believing it was possible having already won the supporting actress Oscar prior and felt the Academy had certified her as being worthy of a best actress Oscar.
With that decision, she created one of the most competitive list of nominees in Oscar history, even multiple nominated Eleanor Parker gave a performance that was equally well lauded that year and she could have easily been the Judy Holiday of the night as well.
If she remained in the supporting category, she would have assured herself another win, then the best actress Oscar would have undoubtedly gone to Bette Davis, only possibly upset by Miss Swanson’s over the top Norma Desmond, which maybe some would have found a bit camp to reward, leaving Davis’s flawless, nuanced performances as the one to beat and would be winner, which would have been the perfect tribute to the film for posterity.
@@gsolomonla You have summed it up perfectly and that is exactly what transpired. I understand Baxter's feelings but it was a grave error on her part because she had an awesome chance of another Oscar, albeit in the Supporing Actress category, and then Bette in most probability would have won for her phenomenal and still unforgettable and so authentic performance. Maybe too as Baxter was a Fox contract player and that Darryl Zanuck and Bette weren't exactly buddies had something to do with it too. Really highway robbery, in my opinion, and in this case, for both actresses.
Thanks for your great synopsis.
I love love love this movie my favorite movie of all time I actually watched it for the first time when I was about 14 fell in love with Betty Davis what an actress here I am 63 and still love and Betty Davis 💜💜💜
So nice and so agree, but perhaps spell her name correctly. Not a dig, just saying.
2:37 the way no words need to be said. The way Bette flicks her eyes over, it's subtle yet striking. I adore this kind of acting
So much could be written about the Psychology going within this film It remains an excellent study of the Narcissistic - Sociopath represented by Margo and Eve, the latter being the most Toxic. What is so scary about the film is that there are indeed Personalities like "Eve' in life. People who are Opportunists, Manipulators, Cold-blooded, Narcissistic. This film helped me to recognize, these kind of people in the workplace and romantic liaisons, and how to distance myself from their skullduggery and to OUT them.
Thelma Ritter is indeed always wonderful to see!
This is one of the greatest films ever made. 4 wonderful female parts, which these great actors devour. Miss D, and Miss R, knock sparks off each other. A classic film.
"it looks much better on you than it did on me" "I can image! All it needed was to be taken in" biiittttccchhh!!! lol
Yes! If you want to be a mean girl just tell another girl how you would need to take the dress in if you were to borrow it.
One of the best films ever made!
Loved Thelma Ritter from the first time I saw her in "Miracle of 34th Street." She did more in her two minutes of screen time than other actors could do in two hours!
Thelma ritter was also in the movie, the misfits with Clark gable and Marilyn Monroe. From Ms. Harper Stacey.
Rear Window…
@@harperstacey9604 I see your comments all over, always ending "From Ms. Harper Stacey." Could you indulge me? I've got a sushi lunch riding on this bet. One of us says you're a woman; one of us says you're a gay male. Which is right?
@@akrenwinkle I am a female. The reason I sign my comments because a lot of people think that Harper is only a man's name when it's also a woman's name, too. From Ms. Harper Stacey 💜.
@@harperstacey9604 It might be easier to use the screen name Ms. Harper Tracey, but as the kids write in fractured English, "To each their own." In my entire long life, I've only heard of one person with the first name Harper, and that is the author Harper Lee. As you know, she wrote "To Kill a Mockingbird" and you might be named for her.
Great movie great cast I must have seen it 50 or more times over the years,never get tired of it Love Thelma Ritter in any thing she is in
When Thelma Ritter tells you her suspicions... believe it!
Another brilliant scene is when they run out of gas and Bette delivers Margo’s soliloquy about being a woman, it is raw, in its soul searching truth, coming down from the lofty celebrity in which she lives and see life in a very real way about what’s missing from her life, knowing all of the fluff and fame does not make you happy. She deserved the Oscar.
Best line... "Do you want an argument or an answer?". I say this to my mom quite often.
I loves me some Thelma. Rear Window was a favorite, too.
She was great in the 1953 Titanic, too, especially when she exposes the guy who dressed like a woman to get in the lifeboat.
AMEN! Thelma Ritter...always great.
...and as Doris Day's housekeeper in "Pillow Talk". 😂
Many great b&w movies from back in the day. But "All About Eve", "Sunset Boulevard" and ""Casablanca" are near if not perfection. I also just adore "Now Voyager" which I only recently saw!!
Just watching that makes me want to dig out my DVD and start watching ...
One of those absolutely perfect movies.
Thelma Ritter elevated every film she was in, even if they were average.
'All about Eve' was perfection but Ms Ritter was an integral part of the whole.
Brava!
The moment Birdie storms by, and Eve takes one step back...I love when Adensen smacks Eve, and reveals her secrets...The dialogue holds up so well..
I love that too. Also how Birdie stands in the corner not taking her eyes off Margo the whole time Eve is talking.
Richard your too short for that jester 😜 . 🇫🇷 Arnuad Bourbon Amaral
Richard-You will go on, and you'll give the performance of your life..😂..some many wonderful monologues... Birdie-Everything but the bloodhounds nipping at her heels..😂
How do I even rate my favorite scene in my favorite movie?? I'll go with ANY scene with Thelma Ritter is perfection in this (and any film). Birdie is my spirit animal..."Like an agent with only one client"..LOL!!
What the hell is a "spirit animal?"
@@retroguy9494 When the energy or personality of a person or animal resonates with you…or in this case, me…
@@bushwickbaby You mean like their soul leaving their body to communicate with you while they are still alive? Like the stuff people believed in during the 1600's which eventually led to the Salem witch trials? "Spectral evidence" they called it.
@@retroguy9494 “Adorable”….
@@bushwickbaby What is THAT supposed to mean? I was asking a legitimate question!
Yes great acting and writing. Just a wonderful movie.
This entire movie is my favorite. But if I had to pick one favorite scene, it would be a tie between this one and Bill's birthday party and the line "Fasten your seatbelts. It's going to be a bumpy night." Classic Bette Davis!
One of the GREATEST movies ever!! The dialog alone is exceptional. The casting & acting was perfection. I watch this movie at least once a month just as a reminder of what was but is no more.
The whole film seems like it’s something we are eavesdropping on, the most realistic performances, as if we are not seeing Bette Davis and there really is a Margo Channing and a Birdie.
Gawd I love Thelma Ritter!!
Me too! My favorite Ritter line is when she looks over Eve's redecoration of Margo's dressing room and says, "It's got everything a dressing room needs except a basketball hoop." LOL!
Stellar Acting from a time that we will never ever see again Ever PERIOD!!!!!
God, I love this movie!!! I owned on VHS in the 90s and I used to watch it, rewind, watching again, rewind etc.
Great film. Saw it 4 times. Never got tired of it. Superb performances too!!.👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
It was at that moment when Margo realizes that Eve isn’t on the level.
Bette Davis and Thelma Ritter - the best of the best.
Bette Davis & Thelma Ritter's eyes said it all!
2 fantastic looks at the end!
It's all in the eyes as face expression follows. What a lost art.
For my money, Baxter has the hardest role. All sweet and innocent, Anne is acting like she's acting here. It's only much later she drops the act and the claws came out.
LOVE THIS SCENE! (and many scenes in this movie, lol...chocked full of one liners and sarcasm and whit) Birdie knew the deal from the start! Bette and Thelma old pro's of the acting field! Birdie could see thru Eve all the time! Oh please catch the SHADE Birdie gives Eve as Eve approaches the bed to talk to Margo, lol........no eye contact, no acknowledgement....LOVE IT! lol) WAIT...the look from Margo when Eve says: as a matter of fact, I sent him one myself. lol.....Birdie's exit and look......SEE? I told you!
If you want to improve a scene in a movie, just add Thelma Ritter to it. Any scene she is in is made better simply by her presence.
The crucial scene in this great movie. All three actresses do their jobs with perfection in establishing a dynamic. Joseph L. Mankiewicz directs with full, incisive realization of what it all means.
This film is required watching for anyone who wants to know about the unpleasant corners of human nature. I've known a few Eve's in my short life and because of this film I was ALWAYS able to see them coming.
Good for you. A discerning person can see a narcissist a mile away.
There is a young Eve in our school who is a teacher. She can't do enough for our principal including functioning as the principal's spy. That is how you get promoted in the school system.
I have always considered this movie a”perfect” movie along the lines of Citizen Kane & Gone With the Wind. Script is perfection and everyone sparkles. This is my favorite scene too, thanks!
One of my all-time favorite movies. Love the look she gives Birdie at the end.
Thelma Ritter was always so good in any film she was in. She may not have had major roles but she always made her roles memorable. The hallmark of a great character actress.
How can one say any scene is the best in a film that is nothing *but* best scenes!
Yes, a great scene of many in this film.
This was just one of the many outstanding scenes from this classic film. Too many excellent scenes to even start to count.
Superb! There is also the scene between Eve and Addison in the hotel room where he calls out all of her bullshit. Also superb!
Anne Baxter and George Sanders gave memorable performances in this classic film
Marilyn monroe had a small role in the movie. From Ms. Harper Stacey.
Such a great film. The first time I saw it, it was on late night tv (WAY back in the day). They actually flipped two reels and it was STILL amazing!
It’s a terrific scene. It tells a lot about who the characters are, or think they are I still think the staircase scene is the best.
Thelma Ritter is the most wonderful and important character actor in movie history she becomes the gold setting holding up the jewel, Bette Davis.
🚬 never left that woman’s mouth
That's the turning point in the movie.
This a _great_ scene, but I wouldn’t say it’s the _best_ scene....that’s purely a matter of opinion. Let’s say it’s your favorite scene. I couldn’t isolate one, bc each is so damned good and the actors are so damned good! The script is just amazing!! I love the “incomplete forward pass” scene, especially Eve’s response after Bill leaves, and the scene between Addison DeWitt and Eve when she tells him _her_ version of hooking up with Lloyd and he tells her he owns her!
The best for each character I think. This was Thelma at her best. George had "you're too short for that move", Anne had "it's my part now", and Bette had "buckle up".
Delicious... perfect piece of cinematic scene...
Three GREATS!!! The best part: we are taken in to the bedroom and forget we are watching folks pretending to be fictional characters! Now that details a masterpiece!
Truly a terrific scene about women and how they feel towards each other.
This scene summarizes the entire movie
They do not make films like this anymore. Rest in Power Ms. Bette Davis.
I adore Anne Baxter, very very gorgeous and check her out in Columbo Beautiful eyes and so stylish xx
Great actors!
That eye flash to Birdy as Eve leaves. She knew. She understood.
And perhaps just a touch of "That's all" for Eve!
Here because of Mariah and Toni.
The signs were there.
The look they exchanged,, Perfection! Timeless Perfection! 74 years later it is still perfection!
Thelma Ritter will always be one of my favorites of all time! So was Bette Davis but to be honest in every single movie Thelma is in she steals the scene. Theres no competition
My favorite film of all time. 💕
Thelma and Bette had solid chemistry.
And that ,little girls, is how you are a real mean girl. 👏
This is the last time we see Birdie …Ritter is amazing in this film
Oh hell!!!! Bette Davis the greatest actress of all time!!! This specific character was made to be played by her! One of my all time favorites, there no movies like this one made nowadays, could it be that we don’t have the will to make something this good now???? Seems like that to me...🥺
On the subject of best scenes: Let’s not forget the final scene of the film, with Eve and “Phoebe”, where finally the true Eve is revealed. The film could have ended at the awards banquet, with Margot’s line “…where your heart ought to be”. (In fact the radio-play version of the film does end there.) Instead, almost as a bonus, we are given that extraordinary coda in Eve’s apartment.