Watch Mae West
- 1982
- 1 hr 35 min
-
6.4 (300)
Mae West is a biographical film that was released in 1982 and stars Ann Jillian as the iconic performer and sex symbol, Mae West. The movie traces West's rise to fame, beginning with her early years as a child growing up in Brooklyn. The film explores her early career as a performer, her rise to stardom, and her controversial image as a woman who was known for her sexual appeal.
Mae West was a groundbreaking figure in Hollywood, and the movie does an excellent job of capturing her spirit and essence. Ann Jillian is remarkable in her portrayal of West, capturing her unique blend of wit, charm, and seductiveness. The actress embodies Mae West's distinct voice and mannerisms, bringing West's larger-than-life personality to life on the screen.
The movie is set in the early 1900s, and the production design is impressive, recreating the era with authenticity and style. The costumes are also noteworthy, reflecting the style and trends of the time, and Ann Jillian looks stunning in every one of her outfits.
The supporting cast is also exceptional, with James Brolin playing West's love interest, Jim Timony. Brolin is charming and charismatic, and his chemistry with Jillian is palpable, adding to the film's romantic subplot. Piper Laurie is another standout, playing West's mother, Matilda Doelger. Laurie delivers a powerful performance, portraying a woman who is deeply religious and disapproving of her daughter's behavior.
The film is directed by Lee Philips, who does an excellent job of creating a well-paced and engaging story. The movie covers a lot of ground, but Philips manages to keep the plot moving smoothly, never allowing the story to drag or become too convoluted. He also captures West's humor and wit, infusing the film with a light-hearted tone that balances the more serious moments.
One of the most compelling aspects of the movie is the way it examines West's unique position in the entertainment industry. Mae West was a woman who refused to be objectified or silenced, and the film addresses the challenges she faced as a performer who was openly sexual and outspoken. The movie also does a great job of exploring the way West's image and persona influenced society's attitudes towards women and sexuality.
Overall, Mae West is a fascinating and engaging biopic that captures the essence of this iconic performer. The movie's strong performances, excellent production design, and well-crafted script make it a must-see for fans of Mae West and anyone interested in the history of Hollywood.
Mae West is a 1982 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 35 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4.