Review of A Streetcar Named Desire (1951) by Sabrina I — 24 Oct 2010

"A Streetcar Named Desire" ushered in a new era of filmmaking and acting. Brando's electrifying performance is just as powerful today as it was in 1951. Here, we have a different kind of character in Stanley. He's dirty, has bad manners, he's ruthless and indecent. You can't help but despise this man who preys on Blanche's vulnerability. It's such a far cry from the debonair Cary Grant. The grandeur of the typical Hollywood production is replaced by bleak photography, with shadows and darkly lit scenes. The character's are all pretty much unlikeable. This is a difficult film to sit through, neither of them have any redeeming qualities. Though I personally felt sympathy for Blanche. She seemed to be losing grip on reality..even if she has done some awful things, she still deserved to be treated a little better. Stella does express her displeasure with how Stanley treats his sister but she continues to ignore it and keeps going back into his arms. Mitchell, someone who seemed like a nice, warm guy treats Blanche like yesterdays trash and then cries for her at the films end? Each character has its share of flaws that are present in all of us...perhaps this film is a reflection of who we are as people and a society. Overall, truly an important film and one that will be seen for years to come.

Favorite Quote:

"Whoever you are, I have always depended on the kindness of strangers.".