Summer Under the Stars: Anne Bancroft

Movie Dearest continues our daily previews of Turner Classic Movies' month long "Summer Under the Stars" celebration:

Now Playing Star Profile for Anne Bancroft - Stardates: Born September 17, 1931, Bronx, New York; died 2005. Star Sign: Virgo. Star Qualities: Rich voice, dramatic intensity, unexpected flair for comedy. Star definition: "A beautiful and talented woman who can lift your spirits just by looking at you." -- Mel Brooks. Galaxy of Characters: Annie Sullivan in The Miracle Worker, Jo Armitage in The Pumpkin Eater, Mrs. Robinson in The Graduate, Mother Miriam Ruth in Agnes of God.

Here's to you, Mrs. Robinson. Bancroft boldly embodied middle class ennui in this controversial classic, and wore perhaps the most famous lingerie on film while doing so. In her various ensembles of seduction, ranging from predatory leopard prints to basic black, Dustin Hoffman's hapless Benjamin Braddock didn't stand a chance. Koo-koo-ka-choo, indeed.

The Graduate airs tomorrow on TCM at 10:00 PM EST.