What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? (1962)

 What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? (1962)

Synopsis:

*What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?* is a psychological horror thriller centered on the dysfunctional relationship between two aging sisters, Jane and Blanche Hudson, both former stars in show business. Jane, a former child star, is now mentally unstable and holds a deep resentment toward Blanche, who was once a successful actress before a mysterious car accident left her paralyzed. The film follows Jane's increasingly erratic behavior as she holds Blanche captive in their decaying Hollywood mansion, leading to shocking and chilling outcomes.

Notable Actors:

- **Bette Davis** as Baby Jane Hudson

- **Joan Crawford** as Blanche Hudson

- **Victor Buono** as Edwin Flagg

- **Maidie Norman** as Elvira Stitt

Trivia:

- The real-life rivalry between Bette Davis and Joan Crawford added a layer of tension to their performances. Their feud became one of Hollywood's most infamous off-screen dramas.

- Bette Davis was nominated for an Academy Award for her role as Jane Hudson. The makeup for her character was deliberately grotesque, with Davis insisting on applying the makeup herself to create an unsettling, decaying look for Jane.

- The film revitalized both actresses' careers and is considered a landmark in the "Grande Dame Guignol" subgenre, where older actresses play roles in psychological horror films.

- Victor Buono, who played Edwin Flagg, was also nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

Director:

- **Robert Aldrich**, known for his work in various genres, including westerns, war films, and thrillers. His direction of *What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?* is one of his most acclaimed projects, cementing his legacy in the psychological horror genre.

Rating: 

4.5/5 stars

    *What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?* is indeed a classic of psychological horror, and this is largely due to its skillful blending of psychological tension, eerie atmosphere, and unforgettable performances by Bette Davis and Joan Crawford. The film thrives on the tension between the two sisters, both victims of their own insecurities and long-standing grudges. The decaying mansion they live in becomes a metaphor for their crumbling mental states, especially Jane's, whose behavior spirals further into madness as the story progresses.

The horror in *Baby Jane* is not based on gore or jump scares but rather on the deeply unsettling psychological torment Jane inflicts on Blanche. Jane’s grotesque appearance—her garish makeup, doll-like outfits, and erratic behavior—mirrors the decay of her mind. The film's atmosphere of dread builds gradually, as Jane's actions become more disturbing, trapping both Blanche and the audience in a claustrophobic nightmare. The sight of Jane serving Blanche a "special meal" of dead pets or performing a grotesque vaudeville routine adds a layer of dark, twisted humor that only heightens the sense of unease.

At its core, the movie is a character study of two women grappling with lost fame, envy, and bitterness. Jane's inability to let go of her past glory leads her to resent Blanche, who once eclipsed her as an actress, while Blanche, immobilized and vulnerable, becomes a tragic figure whose guilt and passivity render her powerless against her sister’s cruelty.

The performances of Davis and Crawford are central to the film’s lasting impact. Davis, in particular, delivers a fearless portrayal of Jane, embracing the character's grotesqueness and instability, while Crawford plays Blanche with a subtle dignity that contrasts with Jane's mania. The tension between the two actresses in real life infuses their scenes with a raw energy that makes their interactions all the more intense and uncomfortable.

The film's sense of "decay" extends beyond just Jane’s mental state and physical appearance. The mansion they live in is a crumbling relic of Hollywood's golden age, much like the sisters themselves. This physical and emotional decay creates a haunting backdrop for the unraveling of Jane’s fragile psyche, making the house feel as though it, too, is a living part of their tragic downfall.

In the tradition of psychological horror, *What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?* stands out for its emphasis on the internal horrors of guilt, jealousy, and the passage of time, making it a deeply unsettling experience that lingers long after the credits roll. The film’s ability to disturb lies not in what it shows but in what it implies, making it a masterclass in sustained tension, psychological manipulation, and emotional decay.

Comparison:

If you enjoyed *What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?*, you might find similarities in **Ryan Murphy's TV series *Feud: Bette and Joan* (2017)**, which dramatizes the behind-the-scenes rivalry between Bette Davis and Joan Crawford during the making of this very film. The series explores the complicated dynamics between the actresses, echoing the themes of jealousy and faded fame seen in *Baby Jane* itself.

The Blue Gardenia 1953

Blue Gardenia 1953

  "Blue Gardenia" (1953) is a film noir directed by Fritz Lang, revolving around the story of Norah Larkin, portrayed by Anne Baxter. After receiving a heartbreaking letter from her boyfriend, Norah goes to a jazz club to escape her troubles. There, she meets a charming but dangerous man, which leads to a night filled with unexpected twists.

    The next morning, Norah wakes up to find herself implicated in a murder she can’t fully remember. As the police investigate, she becomes entangled in a web of deception and intrigue, struggling to prove her innocence. With the help of a sympathetic newspaper reporter, played by Raymond Burr, Norah navigates the complexities of her situation while grappling with her own fears and moral dilemmas.

    The film captures the themes of identity, guilt, and the quest for redemption, all set against the atmospheric backdrop of 1950s Los Angeles. "Blue Gardenia" skillfully blends suspense with character-driven drama, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats.

Starring:

Anne Baxter as Norah Larkin

Richard Conte as Joe Macdonald

Ann Sothern as Cathleen "Kitty" West

Directed by:

Fritz Lang

    Using a 5-star rating system, I would rate "Blue Gardenia" around 3.5 stars. It effectively captures the essence of film noir with strong performances, especially from Anne Baxter, and a gripping atmosphere. While it may have some plot conveniences, its exploration of themes like guilt and redemption keeps it engaging for fans of the genre.

Blue Gardenia sang by Nat King Cole

    In "Blue Gardenia," the special musical guest appearance is by the legendary jazz musician Nat King Cole. He performs several songs throughout the film, contributing to the atmospheric and emotional depth of the narrative. His smooth vocals and elegant piano playing enhance key moments, particularly during scenes at the jazz club where the protagonist seeks solace. Cole's presence adds a layer of authenticity to the film's setting and underscores the themes of longing and introspection, making his performance a memorable highlight. His music beautifully complements the film's noir aesthetic and helps establish the mood, reinforcing the emotional turmoil of the characters.

   In the 1956 film "Blue Gardenia," the following music is featured:

1. "Blue Gardenia" - Performed by Nat King Cole; this song serves as the film's central theme.
2. "Ain't She Sweet" - Performed in a scene at the jazz club.
3. "My Heart Stood Still" - Featured in the film.
4. "The Girl I Love" - Sung by Nat King Cole.
5. "The Daring Young Man on the Flying Trapeze" - Played in the jazz club setting.

    These songs help to create the film's moody atmosphere and enhance its themes of love and longing. If you need more details about specific scenes or context, feel free to ask!

    A fitting comparison for "Blue Gardenia" would be the 2021 film "Last Night in Soho." Both films are steeped in atmospheric tension and explore themes of identity, memory, and the darker sides of urban life.

    In "Blue Gardenia," Norah Larkin becomes embroiled in a murder investigation that forces her to confront her own past and choices, reflecting the noir genre's classic elements of guilt and moral ambiguity. "Last Night in Soho," directed by Edgar Wright, follows Eloise, a young woman who finds herself transported back to the 1960s, where she uncovers the tragic fate of a rising singer. This journey leads her to grapple with the consequences of dreams and the realities of the past.

    Both films use rich visual styles and a strong sense of place to enhance their narratives. While "Blue Gardenia" relies on its jazz-infused noir atmosphere, "Last Night in Soho" combines psychological horror with stylish retro aesthetics. Each film portrays its protagonist’s struggle against the weight of their experiences, showcasing how the past can haunt the present in both thrilling and tragic ways.