Exceptional screen performances often push the boundaries of cinematic art, offering new perspectives and innovative approaches for future actors to explore. Among those who have profoundly reshaped the craft are Orson Welles in Citizen Kane, Marlon Brando in On the Waterfront, Toshiro Mifune in Rashomon, and Gena Rowlands in A Woman Under the Influence.
Rowlands, who passed away at 94 on Wednesday, leaves behind a legacy that extends beyond her final role. Her contributions to modern cinema began with A Woman Under the Influence, which premiered in 1974, and she was among the last of a pioneering group of actors that included Peter Falk, Seymour Cassel, Ben Gazzara, and her late husband, John Cassavetes.
While younger audiences might remember Rowlands from her roles in The Notebook or Hysterical Blindness, her most pivotal performances include Faces, Opening Night, and Gloria. Particularly noteworthy is Minnie and Moskowitz (1971), where her performance alongside Cassel captures the purpose of relatable human struggle.
Rowlands was instrumental in the early days of American independent cinema, a movement closely associated with Cassavetes. Despite being involved in Shadows—a 1957 film shot for just $40,000 that introduced a new realism to screen acting—Rowlands’ impact was important in the numerous projects she undertook with her husband. Cassavetes, known for his improvisational style, relied on Rowlands’ ability to bring depth to her roles, reflecting his trust in her artistic instincts.
The film A Woman Under the Influence showcases Rowlands’ exceptional range. As Mabel Longhetti, a housewife struggling with societal expectations and personal demons, Rowlands delivered a raw, unfiltered portrayal that challenged conventional norms.
Her performance stands out for its unflinching depiction of psychological unraveling and her desperate attempts to meet her husband’s expectations, despite the overwhelming pressures of her role.
In A Woman Under the Influence, Mabel’s struggles are exacerbated by societal and personal challenges, including her battle with mental health and alcohol abuse. The film critiques the idealized image of the “perfect wife,” as popularized by Hollywood and advertising. Rowlands’ portrayal is especially impactful, offering a visceral and profound exploration of a woman’s internal struggles that few had dared to depict so candidly before.
Rowlands’ ability to convey complex emotional states with authenticity set a new benchmark for screen acting. Her performances, especially in A Woman Under the Influence, reveal a depth of character and a commitment to realism that has left an indelible mark on the craft of acting.