A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE

Superb dialogue defines the renowned film version of Tennessee Williams’ classic play, A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE. Vivien Leigh as Blanche DuBois and Marlon Brando as Stanley create a brilliant and volatile screen relationship. Blanche is visiting her sister Stella (Kim Hunter), Stanley’s wife. Blanche is living in her memories of her past in Belle Reve, the DuBois family home. She is desperately self absorbed, a tragic, pathetic figure. Unlike her sister, Stella thinks not on herself, but on her violent, yet virile husband, Stanley. Stella has adapted to her present poverty in New Orleans because of her love for her husband. Stanley’s character is complex for many reasons. He clearly loves his wife, yet physically threatens her on a regular basis. Their marriage is a roller coaster of mania, anger and passion.

STREETCAR was a controversial film when it was released in 1951. The Catholic Legion of Decency requested that four minutes be cut from the film so that Stanley’s abuse would not be seen as sexually attractive to Stella (the Legion didn’t want the abuse rewarded). In 1985, the footage was edited back into the film. Whether or not you agree with the addition of the edited scene, you will surely appreciate this excellent film version of one of America’s most memorable plays. It is rewarding just to see this film on the big screen. Each performance is remarkable.