Opening Night

Colour, 35 mm
USA, 1977, 144 min
Section: John Cassavetes

Synopsis

Although the subtext of all of John Cassavetes’ work deals with the notion of playing roles, this is his only film that takes acting as its primary subject. While in New Haven for previews of a new play she finds dull and depressing, aging star Myrtle Gordon (Gena Rowlands) is traumatized when she witnesses the accidental death of a teenage fan. During the rehearsal process, she must come to grips with her role in the production and her own inner demons. “Opening Night is the other side of A Woman Under the Influence… Myrtle is alone and in desperate fear of losing the vulnerability she feels she needs as an actress, [as] a woman unable any longer to be regarded as young. Sex is no longer a viable weapon. . . . Although she resists, Myrtle must finally accept and resolve the dilemmas which lie not only at the core of the play she is doing, but which reflect the basic realities of her own existence, from which she has heretofore fled, aided by alcohol, men, professional indulgence – and fantasy! The character is left in conflict, but she fights the terrifying battle to recapture hope. And wins! In and out of life the theme of the play haunts the actress until she kills the young girl in herself.” – John Cassavetes

About the director

see Tribute to John Cassavetes