by Ashley Jane “Bette” Davis, Staff Writer

“How do you know who likes you for yourself or for who you are?”

“Terrific question. I sometimes don’t know. I’ve never worried about it. I would rather have a go at something I feel, and be hurt, than always be protecting myself – that way one does not really live.” – Bette Davis

I’ll never forget the first time I saw Bette Davis. I caught a scene from The Watcher in The Woods (1980) on the world’s smallest television and had nightmares about her that very night. And the next one. Also the one after that. I’d like to think that if I could tell her that story, she would shrug and laugh. Bette Davis, born April 5th 1908, is my very favourite actress. To celebrate her birthday, check out my top five fave flick (so far) countdown:

5) Whatever Happened to Baby Jane? (1962)

I first wrote about this story of washed-up Hollywood sisters in the Siblings issue of the Moviejawn zine. I love this movie. Sure, it’s campy and creepy and memorable (especially for the famous feud between the two lead stars). But it’s also very sad. Bette as Baby Jane Hudson is iconic. This movie just floored me as a kid, leading to one of my favourite bits that annoyed everyone, “Whatsa matter? Ya didn’t eat yer din din”. I still haven’t decided which of these sisters is worse, but Jane is just… wow. When Jane puts on her sister’s voice to order from the store as her, it is so good it is actually chilling. Damn, she’s so great; and so awful! And let’s face it, the lady sings like a true angel.

4) Of Human Bondage (1934)

This movie is a brutal look at the way people will use other people and play with them as if they mean nothing. When you tire of someone? Simply throw them away! These characters are atrocious. Everyone except for Norah and Sally – the two women who are in love with Philip, who will not EVER get over Mildred (played by Bette). She is such an amazing performer. I mean, ya, we all know this. But she is special to me because I don’t hate her when she is playing someone awful. I’m not one of those folks who enjoys watching “love to hate them” characters. I am incrediblyyyy sensitive (yes, even regarding fictional characters), but she is different. I’m always in. She shows up and is unforgettable in this role.

3) All About Eve (1950)

This is probably Bette’s most well-known and quoted performance, and it’s easy to see why. It’s like a game of Jenga where the blocks are sociopaths, and each time I view it, I take away something different. Imagine being as dramatic as MARGOT CHANNING! The level of acting she does with her eyes alone was worth that Oscar. You’ve seen this one, right? Go see it! Go, go now.

2) Dark Victory (1939)
Ahh it just wouldn’t be an Ashley Jane list without MELODRAMA. Oof. This one hurts my heart. Timing can be a real bitch, and this movie is a sobering reminder that even a little bit of love is better than none. Unlike my reaction to Of Human Bondage, my heart goes out to pretty well every character in this movie, for different reasons. This was Bette’s own favourite performance and I totally understand why. She goes through it all and finishes her role with bravery and dignity. Fun fact - Bette’s Vermont wardrobe was taken directly out of my very own closet (no seriously, you can check). 

***drum roll***

“I killed him…I killed him this morning. I killed him because I hated him.”

1) Another Man’s Poison (1961)

I have many Bette Davis films yet to see, but this is the one to top for me. Bette plays Janet, a confident and successful mystery novelist living in a secluded country home. Just her and her fireplace, bar, books, and desk. Sounds wonderful. To me, living in this house screams to the world, “leave me alone”. Buttttt wouldn’t you know it, her estranged husband shows up. And well, out comes the poison. Janet is one of my very favourite Bette Davis characters. Not the most well-known or the most memorable, but the one I would most want to be friends with. That ending! Unforgettable. (For more on Another Man’s Poison, I recommend you descend into the Cinematic Crypt.)

There are many other films and performances that I love. I love the heartbreaking romance in The Petrified Forest. Now, Voyager has one of my favourite comedic moments in film (if you know, you know). Storm Center is a movie made for smart and strong women everywhere. Hush… Hush, Sweet Charlotte is bonkers. I could go on and on! But this is a great selection to start with.

In conclusion

*music*
I’ve written a letter to BETTE

Her address is heaaaaaven above (I dunno maybe?)
Instead of a stamp, I put clapping (that’s applause)

And can’t wait for more films to loveeee

(Alright, I’ll stop. Happy birthday, Bette.)