Klute (1971)
Directed by Alan J. Pakula
I realize it’s a controversial statement, but here goes: this film is perfect. This is a film firing on all cylinders. Jane Fonda is a force of nature. The scene I chose is remarkable for so many reasons, but her performance is one to be studied. Apparently, she planned to play scared for the scene, but when she heard the tape recording of the call girl about to be murdered and the fear in her voice, she unexpectedly started crying. By this point in the film you’ve likely already grown to care for Fonda’s character, Bree. To watch her break down like this, knowing something is about to happen, is absolutely gut-wrenching. Strong recommend.