Sass Mouth Dames Film Club series 38

Megan McGurk introduces two Hollywood gems.

Woman's World (1954)

Screens Wednesday 18 March at 7.00 in Brooks Cinema

Clifton Webb plays an automotive titan who intends to promote one of his men, but before he chooses a top executive, he wants to meet their wives, because in the business world, the woman makes the man. Dowdy June Allyson and ambitious Cornel Wilde are the small-town hayseeds with a large brood. Chic Lauren Bacall is ready for divorce, since Fred MacMurray is an ailing workaholic. Arlene Dahl is the bombshell social climber who drags her husband, Van Heflin, up the corporate ladder. Which wife wins? Director Jean Negulesco's shots of historic Manhattan locations, such as the 21 Club, combined with Charles LeMaire’s mid-century wardrobe, produce a magnificent feast in Technicolor.

BUtterfield 8 (1960)

Screens Thursday 26 March at 7.00 in Brooks Cinema

Elizabeth Taylor, in a fury over a torn dress, gives a man hell to pay. Instead of interpreting the plot about a disillusioned call girl, it’s easy to read Taylor’s anger at a personal level, directed at a clutch of MGM executives who worked her like a dog since she was a child, not to mention the outrage she felt at being called a homewrecker by the press. Taylor’s brilliant performance as Gloria Wandrous embodies a highly stylised portrait of rage done in lipstick, mink, and stiletto heels. Even though Taylor considered the script ‘a piece of shit,’ it still netted her an Oscar for Best Actress. Designs by Helen Rose showcase Taylor’s ability to weaponise glamour. In glorious Metrocolor.

Refunds are available until noon on the day of the screening by request through Eventbrite.

Grab a drink at the bar. Outside food and drink is not permitted.

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Host or Publisher Megan McGurk