Johann Hunt
Gena Rowlands had an uncanny ability to make every role feel like a revelation. With a career marked by unforgettable performances and unflinching authenticity, she had been a true artist who brought out the raw, unspoken aspects of her characters. To celebrate her performances in the industry, here are 15 films that captured Rowlands’ magnetic presence and her gift for turning the ordinary into the extraordinary.
A Woman Under the Influence
If there’s one role that defines Gena, it’s her heart-wrenching turn in “A Woman Under the Influence.” In this 1974 drama, Rowlands brings to life a woman whose erratic behavior challenges her marriage. Her performance is nothing short of mesmerizing, which earned her an Oscar nomination and cemented her place as a cinematic legend.
Opening Night
Imagine an actress so haunted by a fan’s tragic death that her every performance feels like a descent into madness. That’s exactly what Gena Rowlands delivers in “Opening Night” (1977). As Myrtle Gordon, an alcoholic star, spirals into a breakdown, Rowlands captures the torment and fragility of her character with chilling precision.
Love Streams
In “Love Streams” (1984), Gena Rowlands and John Cassavetes tackle the challenging role of siblings struggling with life’s hardships. Playing siblings while being real-life partners must have been a tough feat, but Rowlands gave one of her best performances, which made the movie an intimate exploration of love and loneliness.
Faces
Witness the intense world of “Faces,” where Gena steps into the shoes of a sex worker, caught in the whirlwind of a collapsing marriage. This 1968 film by John Cassavetes captures the messy end of a relationship and Rowlands’ ability to bring authenticity to her role. With five Venice Film Festival awards, it’s an unforgettable watch.
Gloria
Ready for a role where Gena Rowlands kicks it up a notch? For “Gloria,” she trades vulnerability for a fierce, tough-as-nails mobster’s ex-turned-reluctant guardian. The 1980 John Cassavetes movie features Rowlands with a mix of grit and unexpected tenderness, proving she can handle any challenge—pistol in hand, heels high, and attitude intact.
Night on Earth
“Night on Earth” takes you on a global cab ride adventure with Gena Rowlands as a Hollywood casting agent sharing the screen with Winona Ryder’s quirky driver. For Rowlands, it marked her first role after the death of her husband, John Cassavetes, and in spite of the emotional challenge, she brings her trademark vitality to the screen.
Minnie and Moskowitz
Ever wondered how an unlikely romance blossoms? “Minnie and Moskowitz” gives you a front-row seat to that journey. Rowlands’ character, Minnie, finds unexpected love with a parking lot attendant, leading to a charming and heartfelt story. Although it had a modest budget, the film’s fresh take on romance earned great acclaim.
Lonely and the Brave
Set in the stark landscapes around Albuquerque, this 1962 film follows a man’s desperate attempt to connect with his convict friend. It is a classic Western in which Gena Rowlands stepped into the role of Jerry Bondi, the wife of Kirk Douglas’ best friend. She brings subtle strength to this tale of individuality clashing with societal norms.
A Child is Waiting
Though not a very big role like in some of her other films, Gena leaves a lasting impression in “A Child is Waiting” as the mother of a young boy in a mental hospital. The film explores the connections formed between the boy and Judy Garland’s character, as well as the challenges of parenting children with disabilities.
Another Woman
What if overhearing a private conversation made you question everything about yourself? “Another Woman” stars Gena Rowlands as Marion Post, a philosophy professor whose life is turned upside down after she hears a discussion between a psychiatrist and his patient. Her chance eavesdropping leads to a journey of self-discovery and change.
Hysterical Blindness
The 2002 film “Hysterical Blindness” is based on a stage play that highlights Rowlands’ and her co-stars’ extraordinary talents. Gena Rowlands shines as Virginia, the mother of Uma Thurman’s character, Debby. This HBO drama explores their intertwined lives, where Virginia finds renewed passion with a new partner while Debby seeks love.
Unhook the Stars
In a refreshing change of pace, Gena Rowlands stars as Mildred, a widow who befriends her neighbor, Monica (Marisa Tomei). The movie presents a heartfelt look at their growing relationship and Mildred’s role as a caregiver. In this touching drama, despite its simplicity, Rowlands’ performance shines and showcases her talent.
Machine Gun McCain
Gena Rowlands’ role as Rosemary Scott is small but important in this 1969 crime drama. Her powerful interactions with John Cassavetes enrich the film and add depth to their characters’ past relationships. Even though the film only received modest acclaim, the role played by Rowlands significantly boosts its emotional impact.
The Mighty
You’ve seen Gena Rowlands in action-packed dramas and intense crime thrillers, but “The Mighty” is a different kind of treasure. The tale looks into friendship and belonging, with Rowlands and Sharon Stone adding their magic. Additionally, Kieran Culkin and Elden Henson truly shined and delivered a performance that was immensely touching to the viewers.
The Notebook
Last but not least, “The Notebook” features Gena Rowlands in a profoundly moving role. Directed by Nick Cassavetes, it follows an elderly man (James Garner) reading a love story to Rowlands, who plays the elderly version of McAdam’s character. With Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams igniting the screen, Rowlands’ poignant performance adds a powerful twist to the plotline.