5 Pauline Collins classics to re-watch as Oscar nominated star passes away

Pauline Collins in The Time of Their Lives | Image via Live for Films
Pauline Collins in The Time of Their Lives | Image via Universal Pictures

The world got a shock when everyone found out that Pauline Collins was no more. She passed away on November 6, 2025, at the age of 85, and left a void in the arts world. The British actress had a long career in theatre, film, and television and had been awarded numerous accolades. Impressing critics as well as audiences, Collins took home awards like the BAFTA, Tony, Laurence Olivier, and Evening Standard British Film Award. Not to mention an Oscar nomination.

One of the best ways to remember her would be to revisit some of her classics. So just sit back as we curate five films of hers that you can re-watch to celebrate and honour her career in the arts!


5 Pauline Collins classics that you can enjoy

1) Shirley Valentine (1989)

No Pauline Collins movie list would be complete without the mention of Shirley Valentine. This 1989 British romcom is an adaptation of Willy Russell's one-character play, also starring Collins three years prior.

The actress played the titular girl who rekindles her childhood dreams. The role earned her an Oscar nomination in the Best Actress category. It can be watched on Prime Video.


2) Quartet (2012)

Quartet is a film in the comedy-drama genre, and it's based on Ronald Harwood's namesake play. Directed by actor Dustin Hoffman, the film features Pauline Collins as a retired opera singer who lives in the Beecham home. It remains a watchable film from her entire body of work.

In addition to Pauline Collins, it stars Maggie Smith, Tom Courtenay, Billy Connolly, and Michael Gambon. The film is available to watch on Prime Video.


3) City of Joy (1992)

City of Joy is a film adapted from Dominique Lapierre's eponymous novel and takes place in Kolkata, India. A title that often slips under the radar in Collins' career, in this film, she played the role of a nun named Joan Bethel.

City of Joy stars Patrick Swayze, Om Puri, Shabana Azmi, and Art Malik. The film can be rented on Prime Video.


4) Paradise Road (1997)

Paradise Road is yet another gem from her filmography that is worth engaging with. Released in 1997, this Australian war film focuses on several women from different nationalities who have been imprisoned by the Japanese during the Second World War. Inside the Sumatran jail, all these women form an unlikely bond with each other.

Collins played the role of Daisy Drummond, aka Margaret, a character based on English teacher-missionary Margaret Dryburgh. It can be watched on Netflix.


5) The Time of Their Lives (2017)

It's one of the last films Collins did in her life. Released in 2017, this British road comedy flick should be on your watchlist if you are planning to watch something light while paying tribute to Pauline Collins.

It features her as a yesteryear actress who decides to attend the funeral of her ex. This is done in an attempt to make a comeback to film. Collins is witty and funny in this overall feel-good film. The Time of Their Lives is available to watch on Prime Video.

Besides films, there are some television shows also which Collins' fans can watch. These include Mount Pleasant and Forever Green.


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Edited by IRMA