Tags
1960's, Bette Davis, Drama, Joan Crawford, Maidie Norman, Robert Aldrich, Thriller, Victor Buono, What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?
Film Title
What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?
Director
Robert Aldrich
Starring
- Bette Davis as Jane Hudson
- Joan Crawford as Blanche Hudson
- Victor Buono as Edwin Flagg
- Maidie Norman as Elvira
A dramatic thriller of chilling intensity and cruelty, What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? stands as a fine example of a twisted flick about the illusory nature of stardom and the ravages of jealousy. Boasting two stellar performances from legendary screen divas Bette Davis and Joan Crawford( whose off set rivalry allegedly mirrored the barbaric actions in the film), Baby Jane is an unforgettable movie.
As a child, Jane Hudson, who was commonly nicknamed Baby Jane, was the shining star of the vaudeville stage, her younger sister Blanche was the one left out. A reversal of fortune later occurred when Blanche became an acclaimed actress in the movies. This time Jane was the one who was on the end of neglect which subsequently saw her spiral into a drink addiction. All the promise of Blanche’s stardom changed however in a car accident that left her paralyzed; her older sister was the one who was accused of the act that ended her sister’s career. Years later, the two sisters are living together in a decaying, ramshackle mansion in Los Angeles. Blanche is wheelchair bound and must rely on Jane; on the other hand, Jane, caked in clown like make up and still believing she can make a comeback, takes great delight in emotionally and physically torturing her helpless sister. Cutting her off from the outside world, Jane reigns supreme as she abuses her sister. However, when Jane finds out that Blanche intends to sell the house, the fireworks really go off as Jane’s fractured mind completely dissolves into full-on madness. With Blanche attempting to escape with the help of kindly maid Elvira and the deluded Jane enlisting the help of mother’s boy Edwin Flagg to help revive her act, we know we’re in for a Gothic and uncomfortable treat.
Robert Aldrich conjures up a creepy atmosphere of shattered dreams, vicious jealousy and uncontrollable rage within the confines of the crumbling mansion. By choosing to have the film shot in black and white, he cleverly gives What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? menace and startling intensity as we witness Jane’s mind crack and the results of it. Aldrich balances the electric and alarming drama of the piece with the uncomfortable elements of the thriller genre to create a cauldron of bubbling tension. The casting of Bette Davis and Joan Crawford was an inspired stroke of genius. The off set feud that the two had is almost as interesting as the movie itself, which leaves you wondering whether the movie is a heightened variation of the rivalry between the two women. A finicky musical score brings a dark mischief to the movie, as the sounds of twinkling percussion showcase the childlike mind of Jane and slashing strings the utter sadism that she inflicts upon Blanche.
What really gives What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? its grotesque but compelling power is the performances. Bette Davis delightfully sinks her teeth into the part of Jane and emerges as a menacing and damaged character. Yet rather than make her just a monster, the excellent Davis brings a tragedy to Jane as we see how she can’t let go of her childhood stardom and how much it has clouded her mind. Davis gives the role ferocity and uncomfortable traits and this is why it is one of her finest performances. Joan Crawford shades her part as the paralyzed Blanche with vulnerability and terror as she comes to see that her sister is really coming mentally undone. It may be the quieter role of the two, but Crawford still makes it a memorable part. Victor Buono is oily charm and greed personified as the pianist who Jane employs, who really just wants the money and not to help. Maidie Norman brings understatement and sympathy to her role as Elvira, Blanche’s maid who wants to protect her from the terror that Jane inflicts on her.
Uncomfortably compelling, dramatic and quite unnerving, What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? is one memorable film with top-notch direction and electric performances.
Beth said:
“Gothic and uncomfortable treat” indeed. Especially the rat under the silver platter:0)).
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vinnieh said:
That part is one nasty and twisted highlight of this film, complete with Jane’s manic laughter.
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Richard Ankers said:
This is film is a real gem.
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vinnieh said:
That’s a great description of this movie.
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Richard Ankers said:
Even if I did put an extra ‘is’ in there. Must have been good LOL
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vinnieh said:
I always make grammar mistakes mate.
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beetleypete said:
Davis over-acts unashamedly to steal the film from Crawford; but whether or not she succeeds is a matter of opinion. The B+W photography is a delight, and the direction is at the top of its game too. Do I like it though? Never been sure, despite many viewings over the years.
Nice to see this on your blog nonetheless V. More of the same, please.
Best wishes, Pete.
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vinnieh said:
Appreciate you commenting Pete, always nice to hear from you.
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theipc said:
I need to see this – I’ve heard of it but never seen it – nice post Vinnie!
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vinnieh said:
You definitely should see this movie Eric, I highly advise it.
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theipc said:
I’ll do it!
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vinnieh said:
Good to hear, you’re always suggested great stuff, now its my turn to repay the favour.
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vinnieh said:
Gotta sign off now bud, need a nice hot bath.
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theipc said:
See ya!
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vinnieh said:
I’m in need of a relax, but I’ll be back tomorrow mate.
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timneath said:
A classic horror which slips into comedic at times which makes it a fun classic with a lot of memorable scenes both on and off-screen. I read a book about their feud, if you take what Shaun Consindine has found as truth then it really adds depth to the film, and the same for Hush…Hush Sweet Charlotte (1964) which was first billed to have them both in, until Davis undermined Crawford to the point she faked being ill to get out of the film. A first and last by the actress (apparently).
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vinnieh said:
The off screen rumours were so interesting to read about.
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timneath said:
they really add to that film, making it all the richer and darker, it’s not just two sisters fighting, its two established actresses tearing pieces out of each other before your eyes. It’s a horror that becomes parody without looking silly.
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vinnieh said:
Definitely a clash of two icons. Thanks for all your comments, I must sign off now. It’s been great hearing from you. Speak to you soon.
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Movie Maniac said:
Have you seen the TV remake with Vanessa and Lynn Redgrave? It makes you appreciate the original much more. There are rumors of a remake (with Glenn Close and Meryl Streep). Anyhow, the original is a superb exercise in Grand Guignol.
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vinnieh said:
I didn’t even know there was a TV remake, I don’t think it would be able to top the fireworks on show here.
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alexraphael said:
Dark and twisted and glorious
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vinnieh said:
Three perfect words to describe this movie.
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Cindy Bruchman said:
It’s one of my favorites! I love this film. The performances were great.
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vinnieh said:
Cheers Cindy, it’s such an electrifying piece of cinema.
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
Awesome review Vinnie! This movie never fails to creep me out! I never know who scares me more. Bette Davis or Joan Crawford! Shudder.
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vinnieh said:
Much appreciated Kim, the two actresses really go to war on this, wouldn’t have liked to have been in the middle of it.
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
Hmm. I wonder if Bette Davis and Joan Crawford went to battle in real life, who would have won?
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vinnieh said:
Haha, I think Bette Davis, she had a ferocity about her and could verbally joust with the best of them.
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
I think you may be right my friend. As long as Mommy Dearest Joan was kept away from coat hangers!
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vinnieh said:
A very valid point Kim.
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fernandorafael said:
Great review, man! Watched this one many years ago and barely remember it. Guess it’s time for a rewatch!
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vinnieh said:
Thanks buddy, definitely dig this one out for a rewatch.
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emmakwall said:
Brilliant view Vinster! This has been on my watch list FOREVER! I need to see it. It looks so dark and twisted and delicious š
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vinnieh said:
Dark twisted and delicious are excellent words to describe this movie. Hope you do see it Emma.
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emmakwall said:
I promise I will!!! I have wanted to see it for ages. Just laziness to blame I suppose š
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vinnieh said:
I’m just as bad Emma, so many movies I have yet to watch.
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Jordan Dodd said:
I have this on DVD but have never watched it. This write up has me convinced – I need to watch this ASAP!!
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vinnieh said:
Definitely watch this dude. I must sign off for a bit, but talk to you later buddy.
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KittNoir said:
Still terrifies me!
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vinnieh said:
I can definitely see why, some of it is very intense and unsettling.
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KittNoir said:
Poor little birdie too šÆ
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vinnieh said:
I know, such a develish and disturbing thing to do.
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Mel @ The Creative Fox Den said:
I’ve actually never seen this buy I keep meaning too. Looks great. Thanks for the wonderful (as always) review!
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vinnieh said:
You’re so sweet Mel, thanks for the compliments. You’re a gem.
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Mel @ The Creative Fox Den said:
Thanks! Anytime! You deserve it š
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vinnieh said:
As I said to Emma earlier today, all of this praise is really boosting my ego. But fear not, I’m gonna remained as grounded as I can.
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poetry and chocolate and books said:
Going to be my next watch. š
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vinnieh said:
Thanks, I’m happy to hear that. Hope you do enjoy it.
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poetry and chocolate and books said:
Hey! I just nominated you for the Creative Blogger Award. š For details check this link: https://poetryandchocolateandbooks.wordpress.com/2015/04/30/creative-blogger-award/
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vinnieh said:
Thank you very much, really appreciate that.
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HusbandAndHusband said:
Oh, wow! This movie just took me way back. I forgot how great it was!
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vinnieh said:
Glad my review could do that for you.
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Laura said:
Great review, Vinnie. This is a true classic. Bette is on vicious, scenery-chewing top form throughout.
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vinnieh said:
Thanks Laura, Davis just gives her all here and is amazing.
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