Classic film stars of the 30's-50's set standards for other actresses of the sound age to follow them. Many of them came from the stage, few came from the silent era, and many more were just young starlets pulled from thousands to give pictures a go.

Scroll over the star to find out more about each actress that has obtained "honorary reeljewels" status. Please note that the "essential films" are my favorites and couldn't get any more subjective.