As a teenager, Barbra Streisand envisioned herself as an actress while lounging on her bed in Brooklyn with a pint of coffee ice cream, and a movie magazine.
After school, she frequently escaped to New York’s Astor Theatre, known for screening black-and-white international films. On another occasion, she spontaneously attended a showing of “Guys and Dolls” at the Loew’s King’s Theatre in her neighborhood.
“Everything was so beautiful up on that screen,” Streisand said.
That’s while opening her acceptance speech upon receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award during Saturday’s Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles.
“That make-believe world was much more pleasant than anything I was experiencing. I didn’t like reality. I wanted to be in the movies, even though I knew I didn’t look like the other women on the screen. My mother said, ‘You better learn to type,’ but I didn’t listen. Somehow, some way, thank you, God, it all came true.”
Streisand’s impact extends far beyond mere legend status, boasting a multifaceted career spanning decades.
From singing to directing, she has left an indelible mark on Hollywood culture. Crediting “two brilliant men” for her start in the industry, Streisand praised director William Wyler and cinematographer Harry Stradling Sr. for their openness to a young woman with opinions.
Their collaborative spirit, allowing her to suggest scene ideas and lighting effects, laid the foundation for her illustrious career.
For the iconic Streisand, one presenter wasn’t sufficient, as she was honored by two esteemed figures: Jennifer Aniston and Bradley Cooper.
As the 81-year-old approached center stage at L.A’s Shrine Auditorium, a poignant and prolonged standing ovation ensued, captured live on Netflix. Cameras captured tearful reactions from actors like Anne Hathaway and Hannah Waddingham, underscoring the emotional resonance of the moment.
“It’s really a privilege to be part of this profession,” Streisand continued. “For a couple of hours, people can sit in a theater and escape their own troubles. What an idea — moving pictures on a screen.”
Streisand then said that she “can’t help but think back” to those who built the industry, men like Samuel Gelbfisz, who became Samuel Goldwyn; Lazar Meir, who became Louis B. Mayer; and the four Eichelbaum brothers, who became Warner Bros.
“They were all fleeing the prejudice they faced in Eastern Europe simply because of their religion,” she said, nodding to the current fraught times amid a rise in antisemitism.
“They were dreamers too, like all of us here tonight. And now I dream of a world where such prejudice is a thing of the past.”
In a recent statement, Streisand shared her experience watching a “wonderful French film” titled Une Belle Course with her husband, James Brolin, who attended the ceremony. Directed by Christian Carion and released in 2022, the film stars Line Renaud, Dany Boon, and Alice Isaaz.
The storyline follows an elderly woman who enlists the help of a “grumpy taxi driver” to transport her to a nursing home. However, their journey takes an unexpected turn as they revisit significant places from the woman’s past in Paris.
Streisand recounted how the film deeply moved her and her companions, evoking tears as it portrayed the profound connections formed through honesty.
This experience reignited Streisand’s love for cinema and reaffirmed the importance of striving to create impactful films.
Streisand gracefully exited the stage following heartfelt embraces with Aniston and Cooper. Earlier, the duo had lauded Streisand’s myriad talents and her pioneering spirit throughout her career.
Aniston began her tribute simply with, “Barbra, that’s all you have to say.”
She emphasized Streisand’s unmistakable presence, voice, and unparalleled talent, labeling it a “once-in-a-lifetime talent” and expressing gratitude for experiencing it in their lifetime.
Aniston remarked on the poetic significance of SAG-AFTRA honoring Streisand at the Shrine Auditorium, the very venue where Streisand held her inaugural major concert in 1963.
Reflecting on her personal connection to Streisand’s music, Aniston recalled the profound impact Streisand’s voice had on her during her childhood. She vividly described the overwhelming sensation she felt upon first hearing Streisand’s voice, a moment that ignited her lifelong admiration for the iconic artist.
Aniston emphasized that Streisand’s talent extended beyond music, expressing awe at Streisand’s acting prowess, particularly evident in her debut role in Funny Girl. She highlighted Streisand’s mesmerizing portrayal of Fanny Brice, noting the undeniable allure of her performance.
Aniston praised Streisand for her groundbreaking achievements, notably becoming the first woman to write, produce, direct, and star in a major studio film with Yentl.
She emphasized Streisand’s trailblazing impact, describing her as a pioneer who not only paved the way for women but also cleared a path for them. Beyond her unparalleled talent, Aniston highlighted Streisand’s philanthropic efforts through the Streisand Foundation, which has provided substantial support to over 800 organizations championing causes such as women’s health, civil rights, environmental issues, and gun control.
Although Aniston hasn’t had the opportunity to collaborate professionally with Streisand, she cherished the moments spent with her over the years, including a memorable New Year’s Eve where she shared a midnight kiss with the legendary artist. Aniston concluded her tribute with a heartfelt declaration of love for Streisand.
Aniston then invited Bradley Cooper to join her on stage. Cooper, both an actor and filmmaker who remade the Streisand-starring classic A Star Is Born, commended Streisand for her unwavering commitment to her artistic vision.
He cited an example from the 1973 film The Way We Were, where Streisand felt unsatisfied with the original ending.
Despite the passage of time, Streisand refused to let go of her desire to enhance the film. Instead, she advocated for the inclusion of previously unused scenes, demonstrating her determination to realize her creative vision.
Cooper praised Streisand’s relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to witness her extraordinary career being honored.
