WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO BABY JANE? (1962)
Film of the Day #150
WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO BABY JANE?
1962 • Robert AldrichScreenplay: Lukas Heller; Based on What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? 1960 novel by Henry Farrell
Producer: Robert Aldrich
Cast: Bette Davis, Joan Crawford, Victor Buono, Wesley Addy, Anne Barton, Debbie Burton, Gina Gillespie, Julie Allred, Marjorie Bennett, Bert Freed, Anna Lee, Maidie Norman, Dave Willock
Cinematography: Ernest Haller
Music: Frank De VolWarner Bros. Pictures
- You wouldn't be able to do these awful things to me if I weren't still in this chair.
- But you are, Blanche! You are in that chair!
In the golden age of Hollywood, where glamour and stardom were paramount, two grand actresses, Bette Davis and Joan Crawford, come together for their final screen showdown in this 1962 thriller. They play retired showbiz siblings, Baby Jane Hudson and Blanche Hudson, respectively. The story revolves around the vaudeville star Baby Jane, and her sister Blanche. But as time marches one, Jane’s brand of entertainment falls out of favor and whule Blanche becomes a major success in Hollywood. The shifting of the spotlight from Jane to Blanche sends Baby Jane into a deep depression, fueling her ruthless resentment, and ultimately revealing the depths of sibling jealousy, rivalry, and malevolence. One night, after the two sisters get in a tragic car accident, Blanche is left paralyzed from the waist down, effectively destroying her promising Hollywood career. Jane’s alcoholism is blamed, and she ultimatley becomes Jane’s caretaker. Living together in a decaying mansion, their relationship is marred by resentment and jealousy. As Blanche becomes increasingly dependent on Jane, the latter's cruelty escalates, leading to a series of sinister events that delve into the depths of their twisted sisterly bond. The film is a gripping exploration of fame, mental instability, and the dark side of sibling rivalry, fueled by outstanding performances from Davis and Crawford.
The story is a grim reminder of how the relentless pursuit of fame can damage anyone, especially a child. It delves into the disturbing consequences of fame and parental ambition. Beneath the facade of Baby Jane's public innocence lies a spoiled, rotten evil child, whose intoxication with stardom and her father's pampering ultimately transforms her into a monster. Bette Davis delivers a top-notch performance as the aged former star, with her grotesque appearance and manic portrayal. It is a performance that is both haunting and mesmerizing. Joan Crawford, too, delivers a powerhouse performance as the ailing Blanche, creating a perfect foil to Davis's Baby Jane.
What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? is more than just a film; it's a testament to the enduring talents of these two grand actresses. Behind the scenes, their well-documented public loathing for each other added an electrifying layer to the film's narrative. Aldrich's direction brilliantly captures the essence of their mutual animosity, crafting a tale of has-been performers who are forced to live together with their memories, their problems, and their mutual hatreds.
Despite their differences, Bette Davis and Joan Crawford recognized the advantage of teaming up in this bizarre thriller, which would breathe new life into their careers. Davis's willingness to look as unattractive as needed for the role—overweight, dressed like a child, with grotesque pancake makeup and blonde curls—created the image of a twisted Baby Jane doll. As the film progresses, we witness Baby Jane's disturbing realization that she may not have been as talented as she believed and that she was more a product of her father's showmanship.
What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? stands as a testament to the power of collaboration via mutual hatred, showcasing the mesmerizing performances of two screen legends while unraveling a tale of jealousy, rivalry, and insanity that still captivates audiences to this day. Bette Davis's claim that Joan Crawford campaigned against her at Oscar time remains a topic of debate, but what's indisputable is the lasting impact of this film and the unforgettable performances of its leading ladies. It's a classic that reminds us that beneath the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, there are stories of darkness and despair waiting to be told. In the end, the film delivers a surprising plot twist that adds another layer to this disturbing tale of sibling rivalry and malevolence, making it a classic in the horror genre and showcasing the enduring talents of two iconic actresses.
The 2017 mini-series “Feud” was a dramatic retelling of the behind-the-scenes battles between Bette (Susan Sarandon) and Joan (Jessica Lange).
Then, you mean, all this time we could've been friends?
Notable Accomplishments
5 Academy Award Nominations: Best Actress (Davis), Best Supporting Actor (Buono), Best Cinematography – Black-and-White, Best Costume Design – Black-and-White, Best Sound
Academy Award Winner: Best Cinematography – Black-and-White
AFI's 100 Years...100 Heroes & Villains: Baby Jane Hudson #44 Villain
Streaming: Not currently streaming
Digital Rental/Purchase: Available at most digital retailers
Physical Media: Available on Blu-Ray and DVD