Diane Keaton: A Legendary Actress and Her Most Iconic Roles
Diane Keaton, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 79, was a cinematic icon who left an indelible mark on the film industry. With a career spanning over five decades, Keaton played some of the most recognizable roles of the late 20th century, paving the way for generations of women to come. Her contributions to cinema are immeasurable, and her legacy will continue to inspire and influence actors and filmmakers for years to come.
Annie Hall: A Defining Role
One of Keaton’s most iconic roles was in Woody Allen’s 1977 romantic comedy “Annie Hall.” The film was written specifically for Keaton, and her portrayal of the feisty, eccentric, and charming title character would define her as an actress for the rest of her career. Her signature bowler hat and ties became a fashion staple, and fans still can’t think of the song “Seems Like Old Times” without sobbing. The film about the bittersweet nature of lost love was a critical success, and Keaton won her only Academy Award for her work in it.
Woody Allen and Diane Keaton in a scene from the movie “Annie Hall” from MGM / UA Home Video.
(MGM / UA Home Video)
Crimes of the Heart: A Dark Comedy
Keaton played Lenny McGrath, the oldest of three sisters, in the 1986 black comedy “Crimes of the Heart,” also starring Jessica Lange and Sissy Spacek. The actresses were at the height of their powers in the film, which finds a trio of siblings reuniting at their family home in Mississippi after Babe (Spacek) shoots and seriously injures her abusive husband. Spacek won a Golden Globe for her work and was nominated for an Oscar, but Keaton shines as the less ostentatious of the sisters, an unassuming, terminally single woman who believes a shrunken ovary is the reason for her failure to launch.
The Godfather: Parts I and II
Keaton played Kay Adams Corleone in Francis Ford Coppola’s epic crime family trilogy. As Michael Corleone’s second wife and the mother of his children, Kay is one of the few fully realized women in the films. Many fans love Keaton’s performance in the second film best because Kay is the only one to stand up to Michael. When the ruthless mafia boss confronts her about an abortion she has had, Kay lets loose and tears into him about his vicious nature and many lies, vowing to never bring another Corleone into the world.
Looking for Mr. Goodbar: A Tragic Role
