Bette Davis was denied the 1950 Oscar for what’s the majestic performance of her career, as Margo Channing in All About Eve, but she competed against her co-star Anne Baxter in the same category. As I have noted before, this must have split the votes.
In fact, 1950 was a year of extraordinary performances, including Gloria Swanson’s in Sunset Boulevard. The surprise winner was Judy Holliday in Born Yesterday, the only comedic role in a year of heavy dramatic roles; the fifth nominee was Eleanor Parker as the victimized wife in the prison drama Caged.
Best Picture Oscar: All About Eve
N.Y. Film Critics Circle: All About Eve
Golden Globes: Sunset Boulevard
Venice Festival: Justice Is Done
British Awards: All About Eve; The Blue Lamp (UK Best Film)
