Released in the same year as Sunset Boulevard, the plot of which also hinged on the ordeals of an aging actress, All About Eve revolves around the world of theatre, opening at a ceremony where Anne Baxter’s scheming Eve Harrington is being honoured for her recent achievements, while venerable Broadway star Margo Channing (Davis, in one of her most iconic performances) looks on with disdain.

As we learn in subsequent flashbacks, Eve, initially no more than an adoring fan, has insinuated herself into Margo’s life; as Eve’s star rises, Margo’s begin to wane, precipitating a bitter and destructive rivalry.

Screening as part of Fasten Your Seatbelts: The Films of Bette Davis.

Notes by David O’Mahony