1. Five Easy Pieces (1970)
Black’s performance in this movie is arguably one of her finest. She portrayed the character of Rayette Dipesto, a working-class woman who is hopelessly in love with a musician (Jack Nicholson). Her passionate yet vulnerable portrayal of Rayette earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.
2. Trilogy of Terror (1975)
In this made-for-television horror film, Karen Black showcased her exceptional range as an actress by portraying three different characters in three different horror stories. Her performance in the final segment of the film, in which she battled a possessed African Zuni fetish doll, is particularly memorable.
3. Nashville (1975)
Robert Altman’s masterpiece featured a star-studded cast, which included Karen Black. She portrayed the character of Connie White, a country singer who is struggling to make a name for herself in Nashville’s music scene. Black’s performance in this film earned her critical acclaim, as she was praised for her ability to balance vulnerability and strength in her character.
4. Day of the Locust (1975)
In this film, Karen Black played the role of Faye Greener, a young aspiring actress who will do anything to make it in Hollywood. Her performance was both poignant and haunting, and it earned her a Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actress.
5. Airport 1975 (1974)
Karen Black’s performance as stewardess Nancy Pryor in this disaster film was nothing short of remarkable. Her character’s calm, composed demeanor in the face of danger was a standout moment in the film, and it solidified Black’s reputation as a versatile actress who could handle any genre.
6. The Great Gatsby (1974)
Black’s performance as Myrtle Wilson in this cinematic adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel was both seductive and tragic. Her chemistry with co-star Robert Redford was palpable, and her portrayal of a woman caught in a love affair with a wealthy man was both nuanced and sympathetic.
7. House of 1000 Corpses (2003)
In a departure from her usual roles, Karen Black played the character of Mother Firefly in this horror film directed by Rob Zombie. Her performance as a sadistic matriarch of a family of killers was chilling and unforgettable.
Karen Black may have passed away in 2013, but her legacy lives on through her impressive body of work. The range and depth of her performances are a testament to her talent and her contribution to the world of cinema. Whether she was playing a vulnerable country singer or a sadistic matriarch of a murderous family, Black always managed to deliver a performance that was authentic and memorable.