Spoilt heiress Judith Traherne (Davis) leads the life of a glamorous socialite, but her carefree existence takes a drastic turn when she begins experiencing severe headaches and impaired vision. She receives a devastating diagnosis of a brain tumour, but initially refuses to accept the severity of her condition, and even begins a romantic relationship with her doctor, Frederick Steele (George Brent). However, as her health deteriorates, Judith’s denial gives way to fear and despair.

A poignant exploration of mortality, love, and the human spirit, Dark Victory features one of Davis’s most nuanced, heart-breaking performances.

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

Notes by David O’Mahony