There are two major motion pictures based on Patrick Dennis’s beloved novel, Auntie Mame: An Irreverent Escapade. The first, released in 1958, starred Rosalind Russell. The second, titled Mame, came out in 1974 and starred Lucille Ball, and was based on the Broadway musical adaptation of the same name.
A Deep Dive into the World of Mame
Auntie Mame isn’t just a character; she’s a cultural icon. Her exuberant embrace of life, her unconventional spirit, and her unwavering love for her orphaned nephew have resonated with audiences for generations. The various adaptations of Patrick Dennis’s novel have brought this larger-than-life personality to the stage and screen, each with its own unique interpretation. This article explores the history of Auntie Mame in film, answering key questions about its adaptations and impact.
The Two Film Adaptations
While the story of Auntie Mame has graced the stage in the form of a successful Broadway musical, only two feature films have been produced directly adapting or drawing significantly from Patrick Dennis’s original novel and subsequent musical adaptation.
Auntie Mame (1958): The Rosalind Russell Classic
This black-and-white cinematic masterpiece, directed by Morton DaCosta, is arguably the most well-known and critically acclaimed adaptation. Rosalind Russell’s portrayal of Mame Dennis Burnside is considered iconic. The film captures the wit and charm of the novel, showcasing Mame’s whirlwind adventures through the Jazz Age and beyond. It received six Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Best Actress for Russell.
Mame (1974): Lucille Ball’s Musical Rendition
Based on the Broadway musical, this Technicolor extravaganza stars Lucille Ball as Mame. While it retains the core plot points and some of the book’s characteristic humor, the film emphasizes the musical numbers and the glamour of the era. Directed by Gene Saks, it attempts to capture the spirit of the Broadway hit but received mixed reviews and wasn’t as commercially successful as its predecessor. The shift from straight comedy-drama to a full-fledged musical altered the dynamic and reception of the story.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Auntie Mame in Film
To further illuminate the world of Auntie Mame and its cinematic adaptations, here are some frequently asked questions:
FAQ 1: Is Auntie Mame (1958) available on Blu-ray?
Yes, Auntie Mame (1958) has been released on Blu-ray, offering a digitally remastered viewing experience of this classic film. The quality is significantly improved compared to older DVD releases.
FAQ 2: What is the difference between Auntie Mame (1958) and Mame (1974)?
The primary difference lies in their genre. Auntie Mame (1958) is a straight comedy-drama, focused on dialogue, character development, and plot progression. Mame (1974) is a musical film, incorporating musical numbers into the narrative. The 1974 film is based directly on the Broadway adaptation rather than the book.
FAQ 3: Which film adaptation is considered the “better” one?
Critical consensus generally favors Auntie Mame (1958) starring Rosalind Russell. Many consider her performance definitive and the film a more faithful and nuanced adaptation of the novel. However, some appreciate Mame (1974) for its musical spectacle and Lucille Ball’s energetic performance, although opinions on her portrayal are often divided.
FAQ 4: Were there any other attempted movie adaptations of Auntie Mame that were never made?
While various stage productions and television specials have been created, there are no widely documented, significant attempts to produce other major motion picture adaptations of Auntie Mame. The Rosalind Russell and Lucille Ball versions remain the only two notable cinematic iterations.
FAQ 5: Is the Broadway musical Mame available on film?
The 1974 film Mame is the filmed version of the Broadway musical. There is no separate, direct recording of a live Broadway performance of Mame widely available in commercial film format.
FAQ 6: Where can I watch Auntie Mame (1958) and Mame (1974)?
Both films are often available for rent or purchase on various streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, and Google Play Movies. They are also sometimes shown on classic movie channels. Physical copies (DVDs and Blu-rays) are also available for purchase online and in stores.
FAQ 7: Did Rosalind Russell win an Oscar for her role in Auntie Mame?
While Rosalind Russell received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for her role in Auntie Mame, she did not win. She lost to Susan Hayward for her performance in I Want to Live!.
FAQ 8: What is the plot of Auntie Mame about?
The story revolves around Mame Dennis, a wealthy and eccentric socialite in 1920s New York City, who becomes the guardian of her orphaned nephew, Patrick. Mame exposes Patrick to her bohemian lifestyle, teaching him to embrace life to the fullest. The story follows their adventures through various trials and tribulations, including financial setbacks and societal pressures.
FAQ 9: Who wrote the novel Auntie Mame?
The novel Auntie Mame: An Irreverent Escapade was written by Patrick Dennis, published in 1955. He also wrote the sequel, Around the World with Auntie Mame.
FAQ 10: Is Auntie Mame considered a LGBTQ+ icon?
While not explicitly stated in the original novel or film adaptations, Auntie Mame is often interpreted as an LGBTQ+ icon. Her embrace of individuality, her flamboyant lifestyle, and her acceptance of people from all walks of life resonate with many in the LGBTQ+ community.
FAQ 11: Are the films Auntie Mame suitable for children?
While the films generally contain no explicit content, some of the themes and humor might be better appreciated by older children and teenagers. Parental guidance is recommended. The 1958 version is considered more family-friendly than the 1974 version, which contains some suggestive dancing and costumes appropriate for an adult audience.
FAQ 12: What makes Auntie Mame such an enduring character?
Auntie Mame’s enduring appeal lies in her unwavering optimism, her embrace of life’s absurdities, and her deep love and loyalty to those around her. She embodies the spirit of living life to the fullest, challenging societal norms, and celebrating individuality. Her story is a timeless reminder to find joy and meaning in every moment, regardless of circumstance. She is a symbol of resilience, acceptance, and the importance of unconventional family.