Actress Margaret Elliot is well past her prime but refuses to retire from the acting business. Despite entreaties from both her daughter, Gretchen, and one-time professional colleague Jim Johannsen, Margaret remains convinced that she can regain her former glory. As she sets her sights on a coveted Hollywood role, Johannsen tries doggedly to get his unrequited love to see the folly of her ways.
Acting
Davis channels her own industry battles with terrifying precision.
Writing
Script allegedly based on Joan Crawford; Davis approved.
Costume
Gowns scream former glamour, current desperation.
Director
Stuart Heisler
Bette Davis
Margaret Elliot
Sterling Hayden
Jim Johannsen aka Barry Lester
Natalie Wood
Gretchen
Warner Anderson
Harry Stone
Minor Watson
Joe Morrison
June Travis
Phyllis Stone
Paul Frees
Richard Stanley
Robert Warwick
R.J. an Aging Actor at Party
Barbara Lawrence
Barbara Lawrence
Fay Baker
Faith
Herb Vigran
Roy
Marie Blake
The Stones' Maid Annie (uncredited)
Claire Carleton
Jailbird (uncredited)
Marcia Mae Jones
Waitress (uncredited)
William H. O'Brien
Waiter at Party (uncredited)
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Bette Davis famously said this role let her 'spit out' years of studio battles. She allegedly suggested Joan Crawford as inspiration, then denied it.
Davis hated the final scene's redemption so much she tried to rewrite it. Studio won. She never forgave them.
US
