Binnie Barnes

Charles Laughton, who starred with me in The Private Life of Henry VIII (1933) was my mentor, as was Noel Coward, who really started me off in my career. I came to America in 1934 and had always been involved in the theatre, so I didn't think films were quite up my alley. One of my most memorable experiences was when I made The Last of the Mohicans (1936) with Randolph Scott. In the scene where we are crossing the river, I had high rubber boots on and there were snakes in the water. I was frightened and I didn't have a stunt woman. This was before the Guild had a contract. We did most of it ourselves. Back then I worked all hours of the day and night. Actors today, gosh, they have a good life, just look at what SAG has accomplished for us.