Top 100 Movies All About Eve and Backstage Betrayal. Greetings, THiNC. movie readers. Buckle up because we’re about to take a charming trip down the memory lane of cinema with a classic that’s so old it’s practically a vintage wine – “All About Eve.” Sure, we normally only talk about modern movies here – and this film is in black and white? Wait, what? Trust me, this film is older than my grandpa’s collection of dad jokes, but it’s got more drama than a family reunion during the holidays.
Plot Twist Central: An Age-Old Tale of Broadway Shenanigans
One thing we do love here at THiNC. is plot twists that make us stay on our toes… and I’m betting you are too. Speaking of betting, I recently discovered this NBA sports betting website which is much better than random bets as to whether you’ll like a movie or not! Check them out to get all your sports betting needs met. Regardless, All About Eve is an original drama that fills its plot-line with all manner of backstage drama and twists. The story follows Eve Harrington (Anne Baxter), an ambitious fan, turned assistant, as she manipulates her way into the glamorous world of Broadway. Forget cat-fights; this film is a full-blown lioness roar of jealousy and betrayal. And Bette Davis, who stars as Margo Channing, is a theater icon who’s practically worshiped by everyone. But when Eve enters the scene, Margo might as well be wearing a bullseye. From the jump we are given backstage alliances, sharp-witted dialogue, and enough tension to forget the fact that you are watching a movie from the neolithic era.
All About Eve Movie Walkthrough
The film opens with the seemingly innocent Eve Harrington (Anne Baxter) being introduced to the glamorous world of theater. A devoted fan, she soon becomes the assistant to the renowned but aging Broadway star, Margo Channing (Bette Davis). However, as Eve becomes more deeply ingrained in Margo’s life, it becomes evident that her intentions are far from pure.
The plot thickens as Eve’s calculated maneuvers and manipulations are revealed. She weasels her way into Margo’s inner circle, exploiting the vulnerabilities of those around her. Margo’s close friend, Karen Richards (Celeste Holm), and the sharp-witted critic Addison DeWitt (George Sanders) become entangled in Eve’s web of deceit. As Eve’s star rises, Margo’s begins to dim, and the backstage drama reaches its climax during a grand party thrown by Margo. The tension comes to a head with a confrontation that exposes Eve’s true nature and intentions.
The movie culminates in a dramatic revelation during an awards ceremony, where Eve is recognized for her supposed talent and achievements. However, in a brilliant twist, Addison DeWitt exposes Eve’s devious actions and ambitions in a scathing exposé. The film concludes with Eve’s true character laid bare, her reputation shattered, and Margo, despite the personal losses, emerging as the resilient and enduring star. The final scenes leave viewers with a sense of poetic justice as the manipulator is unmasked, and the world of theater reverts to a semblance of normalcy, though forever changed by the events that transpired. And while I had issues with the classic style pacing, the acting style, and the overall effect of the film, I did absolutely adore this screenplay. I have to admit that All About Eve a timeless exploration of the price of ambition and the consequences of ruthless ambition in the world of showbiz.
Exploding Super Nova or Dimming Into Obscurity?
Let me take a moment to dive into the characters of Karen and Addison. I found these two characters more interesting and filled with more intrigue than the rest of the movie combined. The backstage politics coming from these two was the real fun of the film, I thought. These two were constantly there, ready to shake things up throughout the film. Addison’s dialogue was so tight, and the quips so sharp that you’d think the guy invented sarcasm!
Bette Davis: Slaying Before It Was a Thing
Let’s take a moment to talk about Bette Davis. She doesn’t just act; she dominates the screen like it owes her money. Margo Channing is a complex character – a mix of vulnerability, strength, and just the right touch of diva. Davis gives a performance that’s so good; I’m convinced the Oscars created a category just for her. And I literally laughed out loud with the line, “Fasten your seat-belts. It’s going to be a bumpy night.” If that’s not the most glamorous way to warn your guests about a turbulent evening, I don’t know what is.
Behind the Scenes of “All About Eve”: Where Drama Wasn’t Just Onscreen
After watching the movie, I became intrigued about the stories the swirled around the making of this particular film. There were so many huge personalities here, there had to be stories. And sure enough, the rivalry between Davis and co-star Anne Baxter was as intense as anything you’d find in the script. Rumor has it they didn’t exchange Christmas Cards afterwards… which, apparently was a big deal back in the day? hahah.
In a Nutshell: Time to Bow or Take a Bow?
So, is “All About Eve” worth the black-and-white detour in your movie marathon? Absolutely. It’s like sipping vintage wine; it might be that you won’t fully grasp it the first time around? But I’m hearing it gets better and better with every viewing. The performances, the dialogue, and the backstage melodrama are the stuff legends are made of. Plus, it’s a masterclass in how real shade is thrown.
Now, excuse me while I dust off my old Hollywood hat and prepare for the next classic… which will be? The Big Lebowski! hahah. Talk about whiplash! Can’t wait to talk about that one! Interested in reading more of my Top 100 movies of all time posts? You can find them all right here.
Edited by: CY
