Review of Grey Gardens (2009) by Michael F — 30 Jan 2010

An unforgettable and uncomprimising look into the life of two women trapped somewhere in between the boundaries of their social standings and their personal desires. Seemingly forgotten by the wealthy and reknowned Beauvier family in what was once the sparkling gem of the finest East Hampton homes, the Beale women live in abject squalor with nothing more to entertain them than their gaggle of unkempt cats, the occassional handyman visit, their memories and most importantly, each other.

The relationship between this mother and daughter is often tense as the Maysles brothers dig as deep as they are allowed into the history of these two fascinating women, but although it occassionally explodes, the intense love between them never diminishes for long.

We feel the pain of time lost as both women recount their failed attempts to leave the monotony of life as a kept socialite in the 1940's to become famous performers. We see the damage seclusion has wrought as they argue without end and stray further and further from social and even psycological norms in the wake of their more than 30 years alone together.

A thought-provoking and sometimes painful look at how resistant a person can be to the idea of change for fear that it might limit their freedom. Highly-quotable and absolutely one of a kind, this award-winning documentary will guarantee that you never forget the time you've spent with these two women in their summer home in the Hamptons.