In Memoriam: Gena Rowland's Best Roles

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Gena Rowlands in 'A Woman Under the Influence'

Rowlands’ portrayal of "Mabel Longhetti" in 'A Woman Under the Influence' (1974) is arguably her most iconic role. As a woman battling mental illness, she delivered a performance that was both heart-wrenching and intensely real, earning her an Academy Award nomination and a lasting legacy in independent cinema.

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Gena Rowlands in 'Gloria'

In 'Gloria' (1980), Rowlands played a tough, street-smart former mob girlfriend who protects a young boy from assassins. Her fierce and dynamic performance earned her another Academy Award nomination, showcasing her versatility and strength as a leading actress.

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Gena Rowlands, John Cassavetes in 'Opening Night'

Rowlands captivated audiences in 'Opening Night' (1977) as "Myrtle Gordon," an aging actress grappling with the loss of youth and the pressures of stardom. Her nuanced portrayal of the character’s emotional unraveling remains one of her most haunting and profound roles.

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Gena Rowlands in 'Love Streams'

In 'Love Streams' (1984), Rowlands starred alongside Cassavetes in this poignant story of a brother and sister who struggle with love and connection. Her performance as "Sarah Lawson," a woman going through a divorce and seeking solace, was both tender and deeply emotional.

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James Garner, Gena Rowlands in 'The Notebook'

As the older "Allie Hamilton" in 'The Notebook' (2004), Rowlands brought warmth and grace to this modern classic. Her portrayal of a woman suffering from Alzheimer’s added an emotional depth to the love story, marking her as a beloved figure for a new generation of moviegoers.

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Gena Rowlands in 'Faces'

In one of her earlier collaborations with Cassavetes, Rowlands shone in 'Faces' (1968) as "Jeannie Rapp," a vibrant woman caught in the middle of a crumbling marriage. Her performance was both raw and electrifying, establishing her as a force in the world of indie film.

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Gena Rowlands in 'Lonely Are the Brave'

In 'Lonely Are the Brave' (1962), Rowlands played "Jerry Bondi," the wife of a jailed man and the friend of a renegade cowboy. Her presence added depth to the emotional heart of the film, proving her ability to stand out even in supporting roles.

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Gena Rowlands in 'Another Woman'

Rowlands starred as "Marion Post" in Woody Allen’s 'Another Woman' (1988), portraying a woman reflecting on her life’s choices after overhearing a stranger’s therapy session. Her understated and poignant performance was praised for its emotional subtlety and introspective depth.

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Gena Rowlands, Marisa Tomei in 'Unhook the Stars'

In 'Unhook the Stars' (1996), Rowlands played "Mildred," a widow who forms an unexpected bond with her troubled neighbor. Her touching performance earned her a Screen Actors Guild nomination, showing that her talent continued to shine in her later years.

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Gérard Depardieu, Gena Rowlands in 'Paris, je t’aime'

In the segment directed by Gérard Depardieu for 'Paris, je t’aime' (2006), Rowlands brought a quiet elegance to her role as an older woman meeting her ex-husband. Her brief but powerful performance added a touch of sophistication to this ensemble film.

Gena Rowlands, the iconic actress known for her incredible range and powerful performances, sadly passed away recently at 94, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished for generations. A frequent collaborator with her husband, filmmaker John Cassavetes, she crafted unforgettable characters that often embodied raw emotion, strength, and vulnerability.

In honour of her remarkable career, here’s a look back at ten of her most memorable roles that cemented her place as one of the greatest actresses of her time.

Remembering Gena Rowlands: 10 Best Roles from an Iconic Career

Gena Rowlands' career spanned decades, and her ability to bring complex, multifaceted characters to life left an indelible mark on cinema. Her legacy lives on through these unforgettable roles, each of which highlighted her extraordinary talent and emotional depth.