Introduction to Diane Keaton
Diane Keaton was a talented actress who left a lasting impact on the film industry. Her iconic role in the 1977 movie Annie Hall is still widely recognized today, and her influence on fashion and popular culture is undeniable. In the movie, Keaton’s character sparked a wave of gender-neutral clothing, making men’s shirts, wide ties, slouchy trousers, and oversized jackets a fashion trend.
Breaking Gender Norms
Keaton’s character in Annie Hall was a true original, and her style was eccentric yet feminine. She made her character appear confident even at her most insecure moments. The costumes in the movie were largely from men’s fashion stores, but they were also a reflection of Keaton’s personal style. Her performance in the movie was so impactful that it earned her an Oscar for Best Actress in 1977, beating out other talented actresses like Anne Bancroft, Jane Fonda, and Shirley MacLaine.
Redefining the Screwball Heroine
Keaton’s performance in Annie Hall was more than just a synthesis of her on- and off-screen personalities. She reinvented the classic screwball heroine for a more socially developed age. Her character, Annie, was smart, funny, talented, and a confident voice for her own independence. Keaton emerged in the 1970s and 1980s with a wave of actresses who defied traditional standards of screen glamor through their naturalness, including Karen Allen, Brooke Adams, JoBeth Williams, Jill Clayburgh, and Margot Kidder.
A Legacy of Outstanding Film Work
The announcement of Keaton’s death at the age of 79 marks a painful loss for the pantheon of New Hollywood. Her films with Woody Allen, including Annie Hall and Manhattan, remain some of her most outstanding work. Keaton’s characters were amused by Allen’s clever verbosity and understated neuroses, but she was never intimidated or outdone by them. She challenged her writer, director, and co-star in a way that few other women in his films ever have.
Dramatic Roles and Awards
Keaton’s innate charisma and panache made her a comedian, but she was also a gifted dramatic actress. Her role as Kay Adams-Corleone in The Godfather trilogy was a moral link to the outside world, beyond the vicious criminal enterprise of the Mafia dynasty. She took on risky roles, such as in Looking for Mr. Goodbar, where she played a dedicated teacher whose repressive Catholic upbringing and childhood illnesses fuel her defiant sexuality. Keaton’s performance in Shoot the Moon was also widely praised, with critic Pauline Kael describing her character as being torn from within.
Later Career and Legacy
In the later years of her six-decade career, Keaton was often typecast and relied on her characteristic quirks and mannerisms. However, she could still shine in dull material, and there are gems among the many sweet comedies she made. Movies like The First Wives Club and Something’s Gotta Give showcased her talent and wit. With her sheer, undiminished appeal, Keaton remained a forceful rebuke to ageism in Hollywood. Her vitality was indelible, and we are lucky to have shared so much of her life.
Conclusion
Diane Keaton was a true original, a talented actress who left a lasting impact on the film industry. Her iconic roles, fashion sense, and dramatic performances continue to inspire and influence new generations of actors and actresses. Her legacy is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and passion for her craft.
