Cast
View All
Joan Crawford
as Self (archive footage)
Diane Baker
as Self
Ann Blyth
as Self (archive footage)
Ben Cooper
as Self
Bette Davis
as Self (archive footage)
Douglas Fairbanks Jr.
as Self (archive footage)
Clark Gable
as Self (archive footage)
Greta Garbo
as Self (archive footage)
Walter Huston
as Self (archive footage)
Cindy Jordan
as Self
Herbert Kenwith
as Self
Elva Martien
as Self
Jack Palance
as Self (archive footage)
Cliff Robertson
as Self
Norma Shearer
as Self (archive footage)
Crew
Director
- Suzette Winter
- Gene Feldman
Writer
- Gene Feldman
- Suzette Winter
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Joan Crawford: Always the Star represents a fascinating example of Documentary/TV Movie cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Suzette Winter brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1996, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Joan Crawford: Always the Star took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $0.5 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 50 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 100 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 47 unique compositions.
- The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1996, when this film was released:
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Joan Crawford: Always the Star shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Angano... Angano... Tales from Madagascar, which focuses more on action than character development, Joan Crawford: Always the Star subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like School of Babel and The Acorn People explore similar territory, Joan Crawford: Always the Star stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: September 30, 1996
- Runtime: 50m
- Budget: $500,000
