In the old-Hollywood studio system, casting was more clerical than creative; people drew up long lists of names, often culled from a studio’s contract players. Still, I have to shout out one of the best assemblages of actors ever put onscreen, five of whom were nominated for Oscars: Bette Davis, Anne Baxter, Celeste Holm, Thelma Ritter, and George Sanders. (Only Sanders won.) This cast is so stacked—particularly with women—that a pre-iconic Marilyn Monroe even shows up in a bit part.