|
|
|
|
A Slice of Life
by Francine Brokaw
Auntie Mame
This wonderful story of a woman who marches to the beat of her own drum has survived the test of time and is now available on DVD in a widescreen version. Rosalind Russell stars as Mame, a party-giving, fun-loving, freethinking woman who is entrusted with the care of her nephew Patrick after her brother dies. She takes it on herself to broaden his mind and expose him to things he never dreamed of.
She starts by enrolling him in an experimental school. This school has no uniform code. In fact, the students don't wear anything. When Patrick's conservative executor finds out, he immediately sends him off to boarding school, and away from Mame's influence. But that doesn't stop her. They are together on holidays and in the summers, and Mame manages to impart on Patrick all her enthusiasm and the wonders of the world. Her philosophy is, "Life is a banquet and most poor suckers are starving to death." With her delightful zest for life, she and Patrick form a bond and share a deep love.
The story follows them through the 1920's, the good times, and the bad. The depression hits hard and Mame is forced to take a job. She is not suited to do much, but she tries her hardest and puts her special stamp on everything she undertakes. Then she meets and marries a Southern oil millionaire and all her financial troubles disappear. Unfortunately, after a few short but blissful years, she is once again alone. But the incomparable Mame again meets life head on and combats all her problems with her special verve. Mame is one of a kind, and Rosalind Russell plays her to perfection.
The DVD includes some special features. There is a unique music-only audio track where the viewer can watch the film hearing only the fabulous musical score by Bronislaw Kaper without any dialogue. The music is enchanting, to go right along with the main character. Other features are the theatrical trailers of this film as well as the musical remake, which had Lucille Ball in the starring role.
This timeless film will delight viewers of all ages. It runs 143 Minutes.
© 2002 Francine Brokaw
Let's Talk About It!
Issues newsgroup
Join us to talk about this article!
|
|
|
