Writer / director John Cassavetes wrote Gloria as a gift to his wife, Gena. She excelled as the tough-as-nails gangster’s moll who shelters a macho six-year-old when the mob murders his family.

A very New York broad, Gloria strides through the movie in silk Emmanuel Ungari skirts, but when she’s riled her top lip curls into an Edward G Robinson snarl: “Go ahead, punks…”

Rowlands was rewarded with a second Oscar nomination. “Gloria was an amazing power trip,” she said. “Taking on the mafia in 4in heels with a child slung over your shoulder. It was a lot of fun.”

Greatest Moment: Blowing away four mobsters in the street, just like that.

Also See: Minnie Moore (Minnie And Moskowitz), Mabel Longhetti (A Woman Under The Influence).