**Lauren Bacall** (born Betty Joan Perske, 1924-2014) was an iconic American actress, known for her husky voice, intense gaze dubbed "The Look," and sophisticated presence.

She made a triumphant debut in *To Have and Have Not* (1944), where her chemistry with Humphrey Bogart, her future husband, became legendary. Together, they formed one of cinema's most celebrated couples, starring in classic noirs such as *The Big Sleep* (1946), *Dark Passage* (1947), and *Key Largo* (1948).

Bacall excelled at portraying strong, independent, sensual, and quick-witted women, often with a hint of cynicism. Her career continued successfully across various film genres, from comedies like *How to Marry a Millionaire* (1953) to dramas such as *Written on the Wind* (1956), and later in more mature roles like in *Murder on the Orient Express* (1974) and *Dogville* (2003). Awarded an Honorary Oscar in 2009, Bacall remains a symbol of Hollywood elegance and charisma.