Mr. Skeffington

This movie is so cool. The music, the photography, and the fabulous Ms. Davis all bring so much emotion to this film. I love how they did the makeup to make her look so old!

Bette Davis was one of the most courageous actresses of her time. She wasn't afraid to play ugly or old for a part. To her, it was more important to be an 'actress' rather than just a 'star'. Her range is especially evident in this film, where we follow her character throughout the years. First, she easily portrays a spoiled beauty with many admirers; and then, convincingly portrays a sickened, aging woman searching for her soul. Especially great is the wonderful Claude Rains, who plays her duped husband, forever loving her despite her many faults. This is a beautifully acted film with a lovely message about love, forgiveness and true (inner) beauty.

I am trying to think of what to say to introduce this wonderful old movie to a new audience. The story covers about 35 years or so of the lives involved and was considered political at the time of its release. It delivers quiet objections to Nazism and antisemitism in the course of the story but they are more subtle than movies considered political today. I have mixed feelings about some of the old movies I like because they show attitudes that are hard to relate to ...Bette Davis is 'a pretty girl" in this movie and to a disturbing extent that is all she is, you see such casual and unthinking racism taught to a child by the same father who knows she will endure hardship as a Jew.... but these are all issues to think about and explore as you watch these lives unfold, and I suppose that's the point. Its historical fiction, interesting characters expertly played, and old ways of being. Enjoy!