THE FABULOUS BAKER BOYS (1989)

After 11 years of trying to establish herself in Hollywood, during which time she delivered critically acclaimed performances in films like Scarface (1983) and Dangerous Liaisons (1988), Michelle Pfeiffer finally shot to stardom in this comedy-drama. Her role as Susie Diamond, a former escort and aspiring singer, proved to audiences and critics that she could be funny, sexy, and still very human. Her sensual performance of “Makin’ Whoopee” is considered one of the hottest musical numbers in film history. In their only starring film together, real-life brothers Jeff and Beau Bridges co-star as brothers whose duo piano act is floundering. To improve their bookings, they decide to add a singer, but Pfeiffer’s presence upsets the delicate emotional balance between them. Pfeiffer’s performance brought her awards from the Golden Globes and the four major critics’ associations, along with an Oscar nomination. It helped mold her reputation as one of the finest and most versatile actors of her generation.  

d. Steve Kloves, 114m, DCP

Courtesy of The Walt Disney Studios.