Joey Lauren Adams took what could have been a disposable character in Chasing Amy — Alyssa Jones, a lesbian whose involvement both gratifies and confuses Ben Affleck — and turned it into a layered portrait of the messiness of relationships. She’s great in the role, and received a well-deserved Golden Globe nomination.

Later, she also proved to be a top-notch director with the 2006 Ashley Judd vehicle Come Early Morning. Hollywood deserved more of her.

This article is part of a special year-long series of anecdotes, reflections and thoughts about the Academy Awards.