Review of A Streetcar Named Desire (1951) by Daniel A — 09 Oct 2011

It's a long time since a film has held me as captivated as Elia Kazan's masterful adaptation of Tennessee William's A Streetcar Name Desire. The remarkable story perfectly marries fascinating characters with heart-stopping portrayals of abuse and desperation, pushing the boundaries of the time and allowing the brilliant cast to breathe sparkling life into these soiled characters.

Vivien Leigh is absolutely electric in the lead role, balancing her melodramatic wailing with a multifaceted performance that shows Blanche's soft, flirtatious side as disturbingly as her deeply affecting descent into madness. Meanwhile Brando brings a revolutionary naturalism to the stiff Broadway stylings of the original play, delivering unparalleled realism in his now legendary Stanley. Furthermore the ensemble is terrific (earning both Supporting honours from the Academy Awards) while the storytelling from Kazan, Williams and screenwriter Oscar Saul is flawless. A stunning film.