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What Ever Happened To Baby Jane (2 Disc Special Edition) [1962]


RRP: £15.99
Our Price: £4.98 (subject to change)

Better and better
Review date: 2008-10-03 Rating: 10 out of 10

I first saw this film when I was a kid (it scared the hell out of me then), and I have returned to it several times over the years, each time thinking it better than the time before. Seeing that this nice DVD edition was available, I didn't hesitate. It's a beautifully restored presentation of the film, and the extras cover much interesting ground.

The film itself has a good script based on a brilliant idea, but it's the acting that will get to you, especially Bette Davis' fearless, endlessly varied performance as the grotesque, deteriorating title character. There is no trace of vanity in her looks or acting, and she seizes an already great part with a gusto that makes it A) impossible to picture anyone else in the role, and B) possible to think that this may in fact be her greatest work ever.

Crawford's performance, much more low-key, grows on repeated viewings, and the wonderfully smarmy Victor Buono manages to hold his own against the force of nature that is Davis.

Clever, scary, wild and flawlessly presented, this film is a must have for any DVD collector. Other than some creaky expositionary dialogue in the first reel, it virtually explodes off the screen.

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Reviews


Bette & Joan Battle It Out
Review date: 2008-05-15 Rating: 10 out of 10

This very day, there was a two page article in a national newspaper about the alleged feud between Bette Davis and Joan Crawford. They can say anything now and neither can defend themselves. To an extent, I am interested and fascinated by the feud too. Then again, I wish the millions of people who read that article would watch this movie, and see two of the most compelling and talented actresses ever, make a low budget masterpiece.

Due to the movie's low budget, both stars worked for a peppercorn salary and a share of any profits. This was not a normal deal at that time. The runaway success of the movie made both wommen rich for a while. Both were Accadamy Award winning actresses who had known critical and commercial success and also lean periods. Both had re-invented themselves before. Both were total professionals, and a professional can always make a come-back!

I have little to add to existing reviews of the film. It is a timeless tour-de-force of acting. I have always thought that director Robert Aldrich just let them go, but I may be wrong. His role may have been as crucial as that of his leading ladies.

This two disc edition is packed with extras about both ladies' careers, and ..er yes the feud. Well I suppose they had to. Don't let that take your attention away from this excellent film.

What Ever Happened To Baby Jane
Review date: 2008-04-21 Rating: 10 out of 10

I hadn't seen this film for awhile until I bought it and it did not disappoint me in my memory of it being such a brilliant film.

The acting is superb and the plot rivetting. There are no real villains of the piece, each sister is a victim of their upbringing and circumstance.

It's a cruel reminder of how the young, talented and beautiful can fade and become creatures of revulsion.

A great classic film which benefits from being in black and white for the atmosphere. It is a film that has comedy, suspense and you will be fascinated from start to finish.

Quirky Black Comedy
Review date: 2008-03-03 Rating: 10 out of 10

Joan Crawford and Bette Davis star in this psychological drama/black comedy about a child actress whose career has all but dried up in old age. She then goes completely mad and keeps her disabled sister prisoner at home, hitting her and playing all sort of fiendish tricks on her.

Both actresses are superb, particularly Joan Crawford, whose growing state of panic and concern is impressively acted. There are some very surreal moments here, particularly the final scene on the beach.

A satisfying, well-acted and well-directed drama.

Brilliant film
Review date: 2007-07-27 Rating: 10 out of 10

My brother bought this film for my mother who thinks this is the best film of all time. I myself watched it and thought it was absolutely superb, I'm 18 and I thought it would be corny with it been in black and white but it isn't at all. The acting of Bette Davis is outstanding and the films portrayal of someone 'mad' is very realistic.

Product Details/Specifications


Actor(s):
Joan Crawford
Victor Buono
Bette Davis

Creators:
Bette Davis (Primary Contributor)
Joan Crawford (Primary Contributor)

Director(s):

Recording label: Warner Home Video
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
EAN: 7321900753302
Binding: DVD
Number of items: 2
Format: Black & White, Mono, PAL, Special Edition,
Release date: 2006-07-17
Audience rating: Suitable for 18 years and over
Region code: 2
Running time: 128 minutes
Theatrical release date: 1962
Language: English (Original Language)
Language: Portuguese (Original Language)

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