Gloria (1980)

She's an ex-gun moll and showgirl suddenly forced to protect a kid whose parents have been rubbed out by the mob. Now the mob wants the kid dead too - but first they'll have to deal with Gloria (Gena Rowlands in an Oscar -nominated performance, Best Actress, 1980.) Director John Cassavetes, known for his unique approach to filmmaking, creates a powerful, tension-filled story. An accountant (Buck Henry) is in possession of a ledger which could put a number of mob bosses behind bars for a long time. Before he is killed, however, he manages to entrust the ledger and his son to a neighbor, Gloria, for protection. Gloria reluctantly takes the kid on the run while keeping the mob at bay, sometimes at the point of a gun. Finally, tired of running, she decides to confront them head on!

• crime/drama