Frank &amp; AvaFrank &amp; Ava Frank & Ava Frank & Ava is a 2018 American biographical drama film directed by Michael Oblowitz and starring Rico Simonini as Frank Sinatra and Emily Elicia Low as Ava Gardner. It is based on the play of the same name by Willard Manus. This marked the final film appearances of Harry Dean Stanton and Katherine Helmond before their passing in 2017 and 2019 respectively. Reception. Stephen Farber of "The Hollywood Reporter" gave the film a negative review and wrote "Bargain-basement treatment of Hollywood royalty." Frank & Ava Frank & Ava is a 2018 American biographical drama film directed by Michael Oblowitz and