This is ladies night, and the feeling's right ... to look at the handful of performances that made the Academy's cut for Best Supporting Actress! Both 2014 and 1971 boast a strong lineup overall. Can you imagine if these gals paired up, commiserated, found common ground? Just imagine...
Joan Clarke (The Imitation Game) & Lois Farrow (The Last Picture Show)
For a moment, it looked like she would have to settle, something she wasn't too happy about. After all, she was as intelligent as she was beautiful, more aware of her surroundings than many of the men around her. A shrewd observer, she had to make some compromises -- that was just the reality of her situation -- but she was more in control than anyone knew. Well, almost anyone -- there was that one guy who appreciated her for who she was...
Olivia (Boyhood) & Alison Densmore (Who is Harry Kellerman...?)
Life hasn't dealt her an easy hand. She's struggling. But the fact that she is struggling means she's working, she hasn't given up. There's a goal in mind, though as time passes, she's starting to think that maybe it's unattainable -- maybe no one really reaches it at all. Through it all, she's more self-assured and in control than she thinks she is. She's a survivor, but she's not just surviving. And she's going to be just fine.
The Witch (Into the Woods) & Mrs. Maudsley (The Go-Between)
Momma has plans for her daughter -- those plans do not involve the earthy mess outside the walls of the place they call home. She will do whatever it takes to make sure her plans come to fruition, even down to manipulating innocents. The main thorn in her side: That Man her daughter is completely besotted with, but who is clearly No Good For Her. But you know, no matter what you say, children won't listen.
Bobbi (Wild) & Ruth Popper (The Last Picture Show)
A sweet woman, naturally open-hearted and warm, but one who's been ill-used by the men in her life. Continually sacrificing, trying to satisfy everyone but herself -- until, late in life, she finally gets the chance to pursue something that's challenging and freeing and personal. Though tears are shed in the kitchen, in the end, she rolls her shoulders back, reaching out to comfort those around her.
Sam (Birdman) & Bobbie (Carnal Knowledge)
Girl is in a bad place, but she's looking to get out of it. A good start would be to stop pursuing the egomaniac.
The ladies of 1971, plus mine and Oscar's winner, after the jump.
