Review of What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? (1962) by Michael F — 24 Apr 2008
A stunning Grand Guignol triumph featuring astounding performances from Bette Davis and Joan Crawford. Paranoia and instability run amok throughout What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?, reaching frenzied and hysteric heights.
Davis is perfect as the unhinged and megalomaniacal Baby Jane, while Crawford is staggering in her poignant portrayal. Maidie Norman and Victor Buono give some terrific supporting performances. Director Robert Aldrich accents the proceedings with stylistic panache, including sumptuous, occasionally nightmarish cinematography and some disquieting editing.
The film frequently flirts with camp, but never strays too far to weaken its disturbing core. In turns gothic and claustrophobic, What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? is gradual yet macabre and mind-searing decent into dementia.
This review of What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? (1962) was written by Michael F on 24 Apr 2008.
What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? has generally received very positive reviews.
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