Review of Auntie Mame (1958) by Forrest P — 04 Sep 2010

I loved it. I loved the performances all around, best of which being Rosalind Russell?s portrayal of Mame herself. I loved the characters, all of whom were treated extremely intelligently and inventively. I loved the dialogue. I loved the laughs. I loved the beautiful and colorful sets. I loved the costumes. I loved the jokes. I loved just about every part of this picture.

Auntie Mame is a story of elegance and a touchingly uplifting story. From the words ?Life is a banquet and most poor suckers are starving to death!? come the true gut force behind this movie. Director Morton DaCosta treats would could have remained a simple run-of-the-mill comedy like it?s Gone with the Wind with its art decoration, set design, and fun and inviting characters. This is one of the films from the fifties that define the era.

Auntie Mame herself never stops surprising audiences for any one of its 143 minutes. Comedy ensues around every corner as Auntie Mame tries to bring up her nephew, Patrick, and spread her message of ?Live! Live! Live!? Auntie Mame is one for the ages, a surprisingly fun and heart-felt movie that does what every movie should try to do and move its audience with its sincerity.

I would also peg Rosalind Russell?s performance as one of the best female performances I have ever seen on film. She exciting, eccentric, energetic, and just plain fun to watch. Without a doubt, Auntie Mame is a motion picture that is sure to inspire laughs and cheers and heart every step of the way.

10/10.