Jeanne Eagels (film)

Jeanne Eagels is a 1957 American biographical drama film directed by George Sidney and starring Kim Novak as the titular actress. The film tells a fictionalized account of the life and career of Jeanne Eagels, a celebrated stage and silent film star known for her talent and tumultuous personal life, which ultimately led to her premature death.

The film chronicles Eagels' rise to fame through various theatrical productions, culminating in her breakthrough role in "Rain." It portrays her struggles with substance abuse, difficult relationships, and professional setbacks, all contributing to her tragic downfall. Despite the fictionalized nature of the narrative, the film attempts to capture the essence of Eagels' complex personality and the pressures she faced as a woman in the entertainment industry during the early 20th century.

While the film features performances by Novak, Jeff Chandler, and Agnes Moorehead, it has faced criticism for its historical inaccuracies and sensationalized portrayal of Eagels' life. Despite these criticisms, Jeanne Eagels offers a glimpse into the world of early Hollywood and Broadway, and explores themes of ambition, addiction, and the human cost of fame.