Born in Tokyo to British parents, sisters Olivia de Havilland and Joan Fontaine became two of classic Hollywood’s most successful actresses. Only one year apart, Joan Fontaine once remarked that their legendary feud began the day she was born. Both won Oscars and had careers that spanned decades. This course will track their individual careers, their private lives (including a combined six husbands), and the sibling rivalry that fueled their ambitions. We’ll discuss their unique contributions to cinema—including Olivia’s upending of the studio system when she successfully sued Warner Brothers—and treat ourselves to a bit of backstage gossip. Each week we’ll discuss two films—one featuring each actress. Students will view the films on their own prior to class. Study leaders will apprise students of streaming apps for each film prior to the first class.
((Melanie Novak - Wednesday - In-Person))
