Much like a classic romantic comedy, Lauren Bacall didn’t much like Humphrey Bogart when she met him in 1943. A drama student and fashion model, Bacall was just 19 when she landed in Hollywood to star in “To Have and Have Not” opposite a 43-year-old Bogart.
At first, the prospect of working with the famed “Casablanca” star was a disappointment. After all, Bogart was an older established talent who was known more for his hardboiled detective roles and etched-in-stone face than for his warm demeanor. Bacall felt no spark between her and her costar, and her nerves overwhelmed her on set. But Bogart was an encouraging presence for the young actress, offering helpful tips for her in her debut role. Bacall’s signature gaze — a chin down, eyes up glance soon known as “The Look” — blossomed from a little technique she used to hide her nervous tremors.
