Jessica Lange 70s

Ed Bradley

2 min read

·

05-12-2024

22

0

Share

Jessica Lange's career, spanning decades, is a testament to her versatility and enduring talent. While her later successes are well-documented, her journey in the 1970s laid the crucial groundwork for her future stardom. This period, though relatively brief compared to her overall career, saw the blossoming of a unique talent, paving the way for iconic roles and critical acclaim.

From Model to Actress: The Early Years

Lange's 1970s story is not one of immediate Hollywood success. Instead, it's a captivating tale of gradual ascent. Initially working as a model in Europe and New York, she was discovered by director Bob Fosse, a pivotal moment that steered her towards acting. This led to a small role in his 1976 film All That Jazz, a glimpse into her potential that went largely unnoticed at the time. This wasn't simply a case of being "discovered," but rather, a moment where a compelling talent found an opportunity to explore a nascent passion.

The Significance of Frances (1982)

While technically released in 1982, the filming of Frances, a pivotal moment in Lange's career, commenced in the late 1970s. This biopic about Frances Farmer, a troubled Hollywood star, showcased Lange's exceptional range and emotional depth. The film garnered substantial critical acclaim, earning Lange her first Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. The fact that this powerful performance started to take shape during the 1970s underscores the hard work and preparation she undertook, setting the stage for the remarkable accolades to come. Although the film's release was delayed, its production within the decade signifies the significant groundwork she was building.

Beyond Frances: Building a Foundation

The 1970s were about more than just securing roles; they were a period of intense learning and growth for Lange. Every role, however small, contributed to the development of her unique approach to acting. She wasn't simply accumulating credits; she was refining her craft, preparing for the commanding presence she would later possess on screen. This dedication, often overlooked in analyses of her career, forms the essential core of her subsequent success.

A Decade of Preparation

While the 1970s may not boast a lengthy list of prominent roles for Jessica Lange, it represents a crucial period of development and preparation. It was a decade dedicated to honing her skills, absorbing the experiences, and building a foundation upon which her extraordinary career was built. Her later achievements in the 1980s and beyond cannot be fully understood without recognizing the importance of these formative years. It was a period of quiet but significant progress—a prelude to a truly remarkable journey in the world of cinema.