Mildred Pierce

"Mildred Pierce" (1945) is a film noir drama that follows the life of a strong-willed woman named Mildred Pierce who struggles to make ends meet and provide for her two daughters. The central conflict revolves around Mildred's relationships with her daughters, her difficult ex-husband, and an ambitious playboy named Monte Beragon. As Mildred navigates love, betrayal, and ambition, the movie explores themes of class, motherhood, and sacrifice. Joan Crawford's powerful performance earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress.