Torch Song [VHS]
MGM released this Joan Crawford film in 1953, it was her return to the screen after a 10-year layoff and what a comeback it is. Crawford plays America's sweetheart, Jenny Stewart, to her fans she's a song-and-dance legend with sensational gams and a sparkling personality and a heart of gold. But to the Broadway insiders that really know Jenny, she is disagreeable, hard-hearted, mean-spirited, domineering star, who won't let anything or anyone sidetrack her career. Crawford plays this role to perfection and is chillingly convincing. This is one of the great forgotten movies, a musial-filled melodrama about a domineering star who finds love and learns humility in the arms of a blind pianist. A glossy production that only Hollywood could do in the 1940s/50s, highlighted by dazzling costumes and splashy production numbers with some really good tunes, this role fits the leading lady's bigger-than-life persona like fishnet hose. And Crawford proves her footwork hadn't slowed down since she broke into movies back in the 1920s as a Charleston dancers. Great supporting cast with Michael Wilding as the blind pianist, Gig Young as her agent, and Marjorie Rambeau, who was nominated for an Oscar as Joan's mother in the film. Director Charles Walters appeared briefly as Joan's dance partner and the subject of Joan's fiery wrath. Entertaining film with good music & good drama, a very convincing, likeable film.