Still from “Opening Night” (1977) by John Cassavetes
About the Film
John Cassavetes’ Opening Night is an ode to his own ardent, chaotic creative process. The film follows Myrtle – a capricious, aging actress played by Gena Rowlands – who is thrust into a downward spiral when cast in a role that forces her to confront her age and perceived obsolescence.
Cassavetes’ swirling, forceful directorial approach is penetrated by Rowland’s devastating and raw performance as a woman facing her professional and literal mortality. Critically panned at the time of its release, Opening Night has since been reevaluated as one of Cassavetes’ most impactful and poignant works.
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