The Glass Menagerie

Stagey but handsome version of the Williams classic directed by Paul Newman. Fluid camera-work and beautiful lighting, an evocative score, and nice (if leisurely) pacing help immensely. The high school classes I showed this to didn't respond to Woodward's Amanda, though she certainly nails the comedy of the piece; however, it's a very animated performance, with flutey vocal mannerisms that can grate on one. (I've not seen the Hepburn performance, but she often gets criticized for the same thing; however, I'd love to see her tackle the dramatic stuff.) James Naughton is solid, if a bit stolid, as the gentleman caller. Malkovich etches a remarkable portrayal of Tom--defiantly unafraid of the character's possible gay subtext--that grows in poignancy to a heartbreaking final monologue. But it's Karen Allen's Laura that is the heart of this piece--if you've only seen her in "Raiders of the Lost Ark" or "Scrooged," you'll be astounded at her ability to cut straight to your heart with just her eyes. She's truly unforgettable.

I just viewed this movie and have to agree fully with jslack-2 from Granstburg, Illinois. I've played Tennessee Williams myself (Laura in THE GLASS MENAGERIE and later in my career Blanche in A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE) and I think Newman really got to the "core" of Williams with this production. The acting is superb and touching...it draws you into the story as Williams intended. This isn't for the "faint of heart" who only seeks "light entertainment"...this is raw and very real. I lived in the South at a time when the old conventions were struggling against giving way to the new. I met many "Amanda Wingfields" and know just how "true" this really is. Kudos to Newman and his cast...and yes, where WERE the Oscar nominations that year for this production?!

I don't usually watch movies like this ... you know ... which is more on the artistic side. I could've just not watched ... but somewhere through it ... I was captivated. I don't know about the other things ... like directing... So I can't say much about that ... but technical stuff apart, I can say ... it is excellent. The theme of three different characters trapped in their different visions... and yet so connected ... We don't have to question Tennessee Williams gift for writing. Aside from that, the characters are played out beautifully. Karen Allen was effective as Laura, subtle and quiet and fragile ...... And John Malkovich ... he makes it so GOOD ... And I'm entirely willing to believe he IS Tom Wingfield himself, regardless of what I've read of critics. He intrigues and captures through every word and action... Or just his presence ... After watching this movie, I actually WANTED to read the play ... out of my own free will. Which is really something! Just watch this movie and let the story and characters overwhelm you.

I read this play in my high school English class, and I love it. I think John Malkovich did an amazing job as Tom. His monologues at the beginning of every scene were especially well done. He gave the movie a really dream-like quality. For once, a movie does the written material justice.

Under-rated beautifully realized version of a famous play - everything is just right and Karen Allen's work as the tragic Laura is deeply moving - one of the best screen performances never to have been nominated for an Academy Award.