Gena Rowlands in an unceasing harrowing role is the greatest performance I've ever seen in A Woman Under the Influence. It's a level of devastating intensity I've never since seen equaled.

Unlike many similar compiled performances, I don't punish beautiful women from making my list; that seems to be the M.O., a woman has to be ugly and suffer to be taken seriously for her greatness.

Next 15+: Catherine Denueve, Tristana; Kathleen Turner, The War of the Roses; Geena Davis, Thelma & Louise; Susan Sarandon, Thelma & Lousie; Meryl Streep, Sophie's Choice; Delphine Seyrig, Jeanne Dielman, 23 Quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles; Anne Hathaway, Rachel Getting Married; Ashley Judd, Ruby in Paradise; Piper Laurie, Carrie; Pam Grier, Jackie Brown; Gene Tierney, Leave Her to Heaven; Eihi Shiina, Audition; Taraji P. Henson, Hidden Figures; Mo'Nique, Precious; Julie Andrews, The Sound of Music; Ronit Elkabetz, Gett: The Trial of Viviane Amsalem; Shelley Duvall, 3 Women.