Robert Aldrich’s 1962 psychological horror-thriller, What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?, isn’t simply a movie; it’s a masterclass in suspense, a study of sibling rivalry fueled by delusion, and a showcase for the powerhouse performances of two Hollywood icons: Bette Davis and Joan Crawford. The film, produced by Warner Bros., centers on the twisted relationship between two sisters, former child star Jane Hudson (Davis) and her disabled sister Blanche (Crawford), confined to a decaying mansion in old Hollywood.
Jane, once a celebrated vaudeville performer known as “Baby Jane,” fades into obscurity as she ages, her career eclipsed by the rising stardom of her sister, Blanche. However, Blanche’s career is tragically cut short after an accident that leaves her wheelchair-bound, and Jane becomes her caretaker, a role she bitterly resents. As the years pass, Jane’s mental state deteriorates, fueled by alcohol and resentment. She holds Blanche captive, subjecting her to psychological and physical torment while clinging to the fading memory of her childhood fame.
The genius of What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? lies not only in its macabre plot but in the performances of its leads. Davis, with heavy makeup and exaggerated mannerisms, crafts a truly terrifying portrayal of a woman spiraling into madness. Her performance is both grotesque and pitiable, revealing the deep-seated insecurities and desperate yearning for attention that drive Jane’s cruelty. Crawford, as Blanche, plays the role of a victim with remarkable nuance. Though physically weakened, Blanche possesses a quiet strength and resilience, attempting to maintain her dignity amidst the escalating horror.
Aldrich masterfully uses the setting to enhance the film’s unsettling atmosphere. The dilapidated mansion, filled with shadows and decaying grandeur, mirrors the sisters’ fractured lives and fading memories. The oppressive atmosphere is heightened by the film’s stark black-and-white cinematography, which casts long, ominous shadows and accentuates the grotesque details of Jane’s appearance. The film’s score, composed by Frank De Vol, further amplifies the sense of unease, with its dissonant melodies and jarring sound effects.
Beyond its horror elements, What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? is a commentary on the dark side of Hollywood fame and the devastating effects of aging in an industry that values youth and beauty above all else. Jane’s desperate attempts to revive her career are both tragic and disturbing, a reflection of the cutthroat nature of show business and the lengths to which people will go to stay relevant. The film also explores the theme of sibling rivalry, portraying the destructive power of jealousy and resentment within a family. The dynamic between Jane and Blanche is complex and multifaceted, fueled by years of competition, resentment, and unacknowledged affection.
What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? was a critical and commercial success upon its release, earning five Academy Award nominations, including Best Actress for Bette Davis. The film revitalized the careers of both Davis and Crawford and ushered in a subgenre of psychological horror films featuring older actresses in macabre roles, often referred to as “hagsploitation.” Though controversial at the time for its depiction of violence and mental illness, the film is now regarded as a classic of the horror genre and a significant work in the careers of its stars and director. With performances from other notable cast members such as Victor Buono as the wonderfully greasy and conniving Edwin Flagg, Anna Lee as Mrs. Bates and Maidie Norman as Elvira Stitt adding richness to the tale.
Ultimately, What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? is a disturbing but unforgettable examination of the human condition. It exposes the fragility of the human psyche and the darkness that can fester within families when fueled by envy, resentment, and the relentless pursuit of fame.
What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? is a Warner Bros. production.
Release Date: 1962
Director: Robert Aldrich
Cast: Bette Davis, Joan Crawford, Victor Buono, Anna Lee, Maidie Norman
