Looking at this film sixty years after its release, I think it's somewhat fitting that the subject matter for All About Eve can be applied to the movie itself. In today's age of forward motion, it seems like everyone is looking ahead for the next big thing, whether it's the newest technology, the trendiest fashions or the latest media to consume. But it is perhaps the human element that is most telling. Everyone dreads getting older, not necessarily out of fear of one's mortality but rather out of fear of being replaced or forgotten, the fear that your star has shone and that you're no longer needed. This is especially poignant in the world of entertainment, where actors and actresses always have to look over their shoulders for the next big thing, that person who might one day take the roles they're desperately trying to hold on to. This or course raises the question, is newer actually better? Or more importantly, is aging really that big of a deal?
Bette Davis plays the role of aging but still highly regarded Broadway star, Margo Channing. Anne Baxter plays Eve Harrington, a young and adoring fan, who manages to cajole her way into Margo's inner circle, becoming her faithful secretary, friend, understudy and eventually bitter rival. In a way you might consider Margo as All About Eve itself, each day getting older and deeper into the recesses of cinematic history in the face of modern movies. But just because Margo is getting older does it make her any less relevant? I'm always befuddled when I hear people say that they hate black and white movies, or to get at what they're really saying, they hate old movies. They would deprive themselves of some of the best films ever made out of spite and plain ignorance in favor of the latest B-rate Hollywood release.
While the picture may not be in color or high definition, one thing that does not age is great acting. Bette Davis is marvelous as Margo, fiery, funny, intelligent, and absolutely demanding your attention. She makes no qualms about playing an older woman, even if her character Margo does. It is fitting that towards the end, Margo decides she doesn't want to play 20-somethings anymore, she matures enough in the film to realize she doesn't have to prove anything to anybody. It is more fitting, however, that she is pitted against Anne Baxter in the film, who all due respect, doesn't hold a candle to Davis.
All About Eve is sharply written and superbly acted throughout. The scene that first grabbed my attention is Davis' heated argument with her fiance, showing her growing suspicions and paranoia about Eve. She gets to have more tantrums later, being a total bitch yet having an air of dignified class at the same time. Above all else, this film is downright nasty, showing the ruthless ambition required to succeed. Margo begins as cold, jealous, and pompous while Eve has an aw-shucks humility and a faithful admiration of Margo. You start out by rooting for Eve, but by the end you can't believe what a conniving weasel she is. Eve does end up with the success she dreamed of, but at what costs? This isn't meant to be an old is good, new is evil argument, but there is a lot to be said about respecting and appreciating the past.
Grade: A
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