Review of Suddenly, Last Summer (1959) by Roger G — 16 Aug 2007

"Suddenly, Last Summer" was a 1959 potboiler that a lot of moviegoers ("films" were still called "movies" back then) had no idea of what they had seen other than Liz looking gorgeous in a transparent bathing suit and Kate looking rather creepy sitting in her personal elevator.

This film really stretched the Hays code (and the Catholic League of Decency) to the max with its subject matter that had to be delicately handled because most of the themes and language could only be suggested.

While it may not be one of Tennessee Williams' best works, it's still a touching tale with Gore Vidal doing a great job on the screenplay to make it barely slide past the censors (although a sizeable chunk of the viewing public didn't have a clue what was transpiring on the silver screen).

The acting, directing, and production values are all top notch. Both Liz and Kate were nominated for Oscars, and it was also the last of the three films that Taylor and Clift made together.

This film is a bit dated but definitely a must see for fans of the participants.