The 1959 film,
Suddenly Last Summer, which I've only just watched, is one of those movies that once seen, will never be forgotten. They really don't make movies like this anymore, do they? Not only are the actors all terrific, the film is gripping as well as very, very
drag, so I sat rivetted throughout.
Based on the overwrought
Tennessee Williams play of the same title, it was directed by
Joseph L Mankiewicz, and garnered both the leads
Katharine Hepburn and
Elizabeth Taylor nominations for the 1960
Oscars in the Best Actress category. The troubled,
Montgomery Clift is about to give a hysterical Ms Taylor a lobotomy, is the thrust of the narrative. It's enough to give one an anxiety attack.
There are quite a few scenes where the chubby Ms Taylor runs about the asylum in 'Paris originals' (with the loonies grasping at her fat ankles). And of course that fabulous scene of hers being dragged about the surf in a white swimsuit shows off the sort of figure that would never cut it today (her waist, it must be said is tiny, compared to her heaving bosom). But then, she's all head. Then there's the chilling Ms Hepburn in her feathered hats and a Gothic lift - and that secretary of hers!!!
The 1959 film, Suddenly Last Summer, which I've only just watched, is one of those movies that once seen, will never be forgotten. They really don't make movies like this anymore, do they? Not only are the actors all terrific, the film is gripping as well as very, very drag, so I sat rivetted throughout.
Based on the overwrought Tennessee Williams play of the same title, it was directed by Joseph L Mankiewicz, and garnered both the leads Katharine Hepburn and Elizabeth Taylor nominations for the 1960 Oscars in the Best Actress category. The troubled, Montgomery Clift is about to give a hysterical Ms Taylor a lobotomy, is the thrust of the narrative. It's enough to give one an anxiety attack.
There are quite a few scenes where the chubby Ms Taylor runs about the asylum in 'Paris originals' (with the loonies grasping at her fat ankles). And of course that fabulous scene of hers being dragged about the surf in a white swimsuit shows off the sort of figure that would never cut it today (her waist, it must be said is tiny, compared to her heaving bosom). But then, she's all head. Then there's the chilling Ms Hepburn in her feathered hats and a Gothic lift - and that secretary of hers!!!
This was one of the best movies on all accounts! Ms Hepburn is positively creepy!
ReplyDeleteDear Mr Toms: I'm glad you like it as well as me. It errs on the side of vulgarity, what with the heavy handed (and yet mixed) metaphors but the movie works. I couldn't bear to tear my eyes of the screen. Ms Hepburn was indeed chilling, and Ms Taylor luminous. Worth every scream and cackle!
ReplyDeleteI want to watch it!!!! How????
ReplyDeleteDear Beauty: DVD? It's worth it seriously. There's bits on youtube I think?
ReplyDelete