Auntie Mame, a Must See!

This movie is a must see for everyone (especially gay men). The movie features Rosaland Russell in probably the most memorable performance of her career.  She played the title role, Mame Dennis, an eccentric aunt whose orphan nephew comes to live with her, in the Broadway production for two years and the movie with the same title, Auntie Mame released in 1958 by Warner Brothers.

(Do not confuse this the with the 1974 re-release titled Mame, staring Lucille Ball).

Movie Synopsis:

Remember darlings, “Life’s a banquet, and most suckers are starving to death.” That tag line sums up this exuberant and immensely amusing 1958 comedy that can be seen repeatedly, as it never grows stale. Rosalind Russell plays the flamboyant aunt who takes in poor, orphaned Patrick, played with sophisticated ease by Jan Handzlik. Mame, all glitter and martinis, raises her nephew in a world filled with acceptance and her oddball literati friends. Nothing is too bohemian. This unfolds in colorful episodic segments that allow us to watch Patrick grow as Mame oversees his unusual upbringing while she juggles a few spouses and an extended household. Russell, who created the title role for the stage, simply shines. She is bright and brassy, but never goes too far over the top. Peggy Cass is a comedic delight as her befuddled secretary, and Coral Browne brings class to the production as her best friend. This was based on the exuberant stage play, which in turn was based on Patrick Dennis’s humorous, bittersweet novel. The screen version was written by the clever duo of Betty Comden and Adolph Green.

– Rochelle O’Gorman

I have included a few clips of the film on YouTube, but to truly appreciate this classic I highly recommend you rent, or purchase the complete film. In my humble opinion this is one of the films every gay man (and everyone else for that matter) must see. We could all use someone like Auntie Mame in our lives. The world would be a better more tolerant place.

Some of the words you will come to love from the film:  ”Ghastly”  ”Top Drawer”   “. . .idiotic, cockeyed nincompoopery” to name just a few.

Patrick Learns about Words

I stepped on a Ping Pong Ball

A nicely done montage of Auntie Mame done to music.

Enjoy!  If you have already seen this movie share some thoughts and your experience.