Diane Keaton died over the weekend at the age of 79, leaving behind one of Hollywood’s most prolific careers. Not only because of its durability – more than fifty years of continuous operation – but also because of its variety. Known primarily for her comedies, the performer also ventured into drama. with some of the key roles to understand modern cinema and its contributions.
But beyond that, Diane Keaton embodied a new type of female heroine that marked an era. Halfway between Woody Allen’s neurotic muse and an actress capable of giving life to the most unusual women in the world of cinema, the star charmed. At the same time, she brilliantly reimagined female roles from a more intelligent, insightful, and sometimes darker perspective. What allowed him to successfully master several genres at the same time and pose questions at the same time interesting about the youth and maturity of women, desire and humor.
To remember such a career – rich, varied and unforgettable – we leave you with five films to better understand Diane Keaton’s career. From the production that brought her international fame and made her a comedy icon, to a rare vision of love, loss and life in the big city. All in honor of the actress who He captivated with his charm, but at the same time managed to secure a legacy worthy of memory and respect.
Annie Hall (Filmin)
This 1977 film wowed audiences and critics with its unconventional take on love, coexistence and modern relationships. But in particular, showing Diane Keaton in all her rarity and ability to play a female character that is impossible to categorize, much less understand. The story of two lovers trying to maintain their relationship in the middle of the countryside. undermined by differences in personalities and aspirations, it seems an outdated premise.
In Woody Allen’s hands, however, it becomes a funny, intimate and satirical reflection on adulthood, desire, selfishness and even the simple human condition. And this is thanks to the fact that the brilliant script, which the director also writes, centers on the comedian couple Alvy (Allen) and Annie (Keaton). He is a pessimistic writer, and she is an ambitious singer.
Together, they navigate a relationship full of ups and downs, marked by dark romance, uplifting moments, and others that are just plain fun. Unanimously recognized as one of the best comedies of all time. Annie Hall This is an important film for Diane Keaton to know.
The Godfather (Netflix)
Francis Ford Coppola’s 1972 masterpiece also featured one of Diane Keaton’s greatest performances. On this occasion, he is very far from his usual winks and sense of humor. In fact, Kay Adams, an American girl and later wife of Michael Corleone (Al Pacino), represents a look at the innocence of the time. And all this in the shadow of criminal violence and the dark tentacles of the mafia.
What’s most remarkable about Kay, however, is his ability to capture the more human side of Michael, Vito Corleone’s (Marlon Brando) son and successor. Next to her, heir to the secrets of a criminal family, he is simply a father and husband. And also a man who is capable of love and even feeling vulnerable.
Perhaps this is why one of the greatest scenes of Diane Keaton’s career occurs at the end of the film. During this episode, Kay watches as Michael receives respect from the people surrounding the deceased Vito. And when the door to the office closes, he realizes that behind it lies a secret that makes Michael a killer. A brilliant allegory of evil, which the actress managed to embody with brilliant stoicism.
Father of the Bride (Disney+)
In 1991, the actress starred in one of her funniest comedies, which gave her the opportunity to join forces with Steve Martin and Martin Short. Together they turned the story of the marriage of a middle-aged couple’s beloved daughter into a celebration of hilarious jokes. But they also contributed there’s enough humanity to make the story a touching vision of fatherhood.
More, Father of the bride It shines in the moments when Diane Keaton, who plays Nina, the main bride’s mother, shows all her colors. Uncomplicated, loving, happy and full of maternal wisdom, she is the perfect analogue to Steve Martin, a worried father who wants only happiness for his child. A duet dedicated to the history of cinema, which can now be enjoyed on Disney+.
When You Least Expect It (Prime Video)
In this 2003 film, Nancy Meyer is another magical duo in film history. And all thanks to the fact that the plot managed to reunite Diane Keaton with another acting colossus: Jack Nicholson. Together they form an unlikely pair who reflect on love in old age with satire and vulnerability. And also about the joy of life and even unsatisfied desire.
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But, since it could not be otherwise, this is not an ordinary or dramatic vision. To that end, the script follows Harry (Nicholson), a music entrepreneur who never dates women under 30. And in fact, he has a passionate relationship with Marin (Amanda Peet), who is twice his age.
So when he meets—and in an iconic nude scene—Erica (Keaton), Marin’s mother, the chemistry won’t be immediate. And it will take them a long way to get to know each other and begin to appreciate each other. However, it is this journey – and the love that follows – that will make the love between them extraordinary. And humorous, of course, because this is a delicious comedy on the level of Diane Keaton.
Manhattan (Filmin)
Another novel on the list, also directed by Woody Allen. And of course, in honor of the brightest moments of their history: Manhattan in all its urban glory and Diane Keaton. A film about the misadventures of a married couple. When you try to understand the nature of love, it’s not just fascinating.
It is also a thoughtful and ironic look at love, time and finding your place in the world. Everything from the brilliant scenes showing New York in all its glory, to the camera falling in love with Diane Keaton as a woman capable of embodying the city. A combination of history that you can enjoy on Filmin.
Source: Hiper Textual
