Frank & Ava 2018

In the year 1949, a disheartened Frank, once the king of swoon who enchanted countless “bobby soxers,” faces a decline in his career due to a faltering voice, a crumbling marriage, and a tainted off-screen reputation. Amidst the chaos, he becomes enamored with the rising star, Ava Gardner, who is widely regarded as the most beautiful woman in Hollywood. Their romance ignites with an intense flame, but the couple struggles under the relentless scrutiny of tabloids, particularly from reporters like Hedda Hopper, who thrive on publicizing their tumultuous relationship.

As rumors swirl, Frank is painted as an adulterer while Ava is labeled a homewrecker, especially since Frank’s wife, Nancy, remains steadfast in denying him a divorce. After finally tying the knot in 1951, the tabloids continue to fan the flames of scandal, often revealing the salacious details of their affairs whenever their careers take them in opposite directions. It is frequently Ava who departs for distant lands like Europe or Africa to film, leaving Frank to cope with his increasing insecurities.

While Frank’s career hangs by a fragile thread, he becomes desperate to secure the role of Private Angelo Maggio in the anticipated Columbia Pictures film, From Here to Eternity. Despite giving it his all to land the coveted “Maggio” role and attempting to keep Ava in check, it becomes painfully clear that they both face long odds. Frank’s reputation as an actor is shaky, as recent projects have not fared well, and he and Ava seem to be two wild, hard-drinking souls spiraling toward self-destruction. Their passionate confrontations often lead to fierce exchanges of insults, with Ava storming off, leaving Frank in despair and resorting to numerous suicide attempts upon hearing of her affairs.

Ultimately, the couple separates, with Ava staying in Spain to film The Barefoot Contessa and becoming involved with famed matador, Luis Miguel Dominion. However, fate takes a turn when Frank, perhaps persuaded by Ava, the mob, or simply his unwavering determination, finally secures the role of Maggio. From Here to Eternity becomes a monumental hit, reviving Frank’s career and earning him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, marking one of the most remarkable comebacks in Hollywood history. Yet, as he stands on the podium accepting his award, the triumph feels bittersweet, echoing the Pyrrhic victory of a heart broken and celebrated alone. The film, Frank and Ava, is enriched by interviews with several notable figures, including Academy Award winner, Shirley Jones, who provide valuable insights and firsthand accounts of the tumultuous events depicted.