Saw this on TCM a week ago. Strange but could not help watching it. I have a few questions about the end scene: So Ms. Farrow really took the pills? Was Ms. Taylor instrumental in this? The whole film unfolded as if it was a dream, reminded me so much of Altman. Is it safe to say that Ms. Farrow's character is mentally ill?
shareI think Ms. Farrow's character was emotionally ill. In the end, Ms. Taylor's character wanted to keep up the pretense but Farrow's character was in her 'adult' mode and wasn't receptive. So Taylor exited a bit too soon for Farrow was ready to accept her but too late. The characters were always too late: Taylor couldn't catch her daughter before she drowned, Farrow couldn't resolve with her mother before her sickness.
shareNever thought of it that way. Interesting take.
So Ms. Taylor's character also 'used' Farrow's. The two elderly ladies used (and stole) from Farrow as well. Not to mention the lout played by Mitchum. Or is it the other way around? Did Farrow play all of them?
<< ...Did Farrow play all of them? >>
Just saw this little-known (to the general public) film for the first time...the whole thing could have been twice as good as it was with some more psychological clarity!
Very interesting, Pinter-esque premise and great production values...obviously a lot of work went into it. Ultimately, though, the plot stays kind of skeletal.
The ending is flat to me, because....Yes, what the HELL is going on with the Mia Farrow character?? It seems to me she's revealed to be a rich little brat who indulges herself by playing games with people.....but then suddenly she's "sick" again as she's calling for help on the stairs after Taylor leaves?? Very wishy-washy, unclear resolution.
This could be really interesting if the plot were cleaned up, and it were cast with strong, cunning actors, like Judi Davis as Leonora.
It would be good to read the short story it's based on, which might provide some clarity re: the actual story, and who's really doing what.
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Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! This film also reminds me of Robert Altman's work, particularly an early film of his called "That Cold Day in the Park." Please tell me you've seen it! If you haven't I highly recommend it. Yes, I believe Cenci was psychologically and emotionally disturbed, and unfortunately I believe Leonora's abrupt entrance and exit from Cenci's life did contribute to her demise. This was such a thought-provoking film.
shareSaw this film again a week ago. It is thought-provoking and I hope would get a DVD release someday. Maybe Criterion?
shareGood movie, and a good recommendation.
shareLeonora blamed Albert for Cenci's suicide. The incest was probably what made her retreat into childhood, a typical repression reaction to early abuse---total denial and lack of recollection, but acting out. That's why she killed him.
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