What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? (1962) – A Chilling Tale of Sibling Rivalry and Madness
Title: What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?
Director: Robert Aldrich
Release Date: October 31, 1962
Genre: Psychological Thriller, Drama, Horror
Streaming Services: Available on HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, and for rent or purchase on iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu.
Synopsis
“What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?” is a psychological thriller that delves into the dark and twisted dynamics of sibling rivalry. The film stars Bette Davis as Baby Jane Hudson, a former child star whose career faded as she grew older, and Joan Crawford as her sister Blanche Hudson, who became a successful actress before a mysterious accident left her paralyzed. Living together in a decaying Hollywood mansion, Jane’s mental state deteriorates as she torments her disabled sister, leading to a series of harrowing and suspenseful events.
Review
“What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?” is a haunting and compelling film that showcases the talents of two of Hollywood’s most iconic actresses. Directed by Robert Aldrich, the movie is a masterful blend of psychological horror and intense drama, exploring themes of jealousy, regret, and madness.
Bette Davis delivers a tour-de-force performance as Baby Jane Hudson. Her portrayal of the delusional and vindictive former child star is both terrifying and tragic. Davis fully embraces the grotesque aspects of her character, using makeup and mannerisms to enhance Jane’s menacing presence. Her performance is a testament to her ability to portray complex and deeply flawed characters.
Joan Crawford, as Blanche Hudson, provides a compelling counterbalance to Davis’s Baby Jane. Crawford’s depiction of Blanche’s vulnerability and desperation evokes sympathy, making the character’s plight deeply affecting. The tension between the two sisters is palpable, with Crawford’s restrained performance highlighting Blanche’s helplessness and increasing fear.
The film’s direction and cinematography contribute significantly to its eerie and claustrophobic atmosphere. Ernest Haller’s black-and-white cinematography enhances the sense of decay and entrapment within the Hudson mansion. The use of shadows and lighting creates a sense of impending doom, while the tight framing of scenes heightens the feeling of confinement.
The screenplay by Lukas Heller, based on the novel by Henry Farrell, effectively builds suspense and delves into the psychological complexities of the characters. The gradual revelation of the sisters’ backstory and the escalating cruelty of Jane’s actions keep the audience engaged and on edge.
The film’s score, composed by Frank De Vol, adds to the unsettling atmosphere. The music underscores the tension and enhances the emotional impact of key scenes, contributing to the overall sense of dread.
Criticisms
While “What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?” is widely acclaimed, it may not be to everyone’s taste. Some viewers might find the film’s pacing slow, especially given its focus on psychological tension rather than action. Additionally, the intense and disturbing nature of the story, along with the grotesque portrayal of Baby Jane, might be unsettling for some audiences.
Conclusion
“What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?” is a classic psychological thriller that remains impactful and relevant decades after its release. Its exploration of the darker aspects of sibling rivalry, combined with stellar performances by Bette Davis and Joan Crawford, makes it a must-watch for fans of suspenseful and character-driven films. The movie’s haunting atmosphere and intricate storytelling ensure its place as a timeless piece of cinema.
For those interested in a chilling and emotionally charged thriller, “What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?” is available for streaming on HBO Max and Amazon Prime Video, and can also be rented or purchased on platforms like iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu.
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