“Intentional Cinema” Film Series: Mildred Pierce

Based on a novel by James M. Cain, this 1945 film noir, melodrama was directed by Michael Curtiz and stars Joan Crawford, who won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of a doting mother who rises from waitress to restaurant-chain owner, but her spoiled daughter’s selfishness results in heartbreak. The black and white film runs 111 minutes, and will be followed by a lively conversation led by Norma Austin and  Khari Austin-Rawls. Free.