Review of The Stripper (1963) by Tara H — 14 Mar 2016
Based on William Inge's downbeat drama, A Loss of Roses, this was originally planned as a vehicle for Marilyn Monroe, who had previously shone in another Inge adaptation, Bus Stop. But she rejected it, and the part went to Joanne Woodward instead.
Woodward, always a fine actress, is miscast here, but does her best as Lila's an aging showgirl who returns to her hometown. The ghost of MM is always apparent, especially in the scene where she 'strips' to Something's Got to Give (the title of Monroe's last, unfinished movie.
) One suspects that the story of Lila's romance with a much younger man was probably toned down by the studio, and hence some of the character development doesn't convince. Also, Inge's brand of realism was losing its edge by the early '60s.
But there are some interesting names in the supporting cast - including Richard Beymer, Claire Trevor, Carol Lynley, and even Gypsy Rose Lee.
This review of The Stripper (1963) was written by Tara H on 14 Mar 2016.
The Stripper has generally received mixed reviews.
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