Diane Keaton’s legendary career was filled with unforgettable performances, but one movie stood above them all in her heart. The beloved actress, who passed away at 79, had an impressive résumé that included Annie Hall, The Godfather trilogy, and The First Wives Club. Yet, she revealed that among all the titles in her extraordinary Diane Keaton filmography, it was Something’s Gotta Give that remained closest to her heart.
According to People, Keaton once admitted that the 2003 romantic comedy starring Jack Nicholson and Keanu Reeves was “my favorite film.” The revelation came years after its release, in her 2011 memoir, Then Again. Despite initially doubting the film’s success, she later reflected on its emotional and professional rewards—both on and off the screen.
Diane Keaton Found Joy And Generosity In ‘Something’s Gotta Give’
In Something’s Gotta Give, Keaton played Erica Barry, a divorced playwright who finds unexpected love later in life. The role earned her a fourth Oscar nomination and became one of the defining highlights of her career. She shared that filming a romantic scene with Nicholson became one of her fondest memories—not only because of the on-screen chemistry but also for what came afterward.
Keaton revealed that she received a surprise check “with a lot of zeros” after production wrapped. She later discovered that Nicholson had quietly gifted her a portion of his earnings from the movie’s profits. The touching gesture, coupled with the film’s enduring popularity, solidified Something’s Gotta Give as the one project that meant the most to her—a sentiment that fans of Diane Keaton’s filmography often echo today.
Reflecting On A Life Of Iconic Roles
Though Something’s Gotta Give remained her personal favorite, Keaton’s admiration for her work stretched far beyond that romantic comedy. She told Vulture in 2020 that she also cherished the Father of the Bride movies, calling them “so touching” and timeless. Revisiting those roles, she said, reminded her of the warmth and humor that defined much of her screen life.
From her early Broadway beginnings to her Oscar-winning turn in Annie Hall, Keaton’s career embodied both range and grace. Whether she was tackling comedy, romance, or drama, she left behind a cinematic legacy that will continue to inspire future generations. Her love for Something’s Gotta Give was not just about a single film—it was a reflection of the joy and connection she found in storytelling itself.