Watch Too Rich: The Secret Life of Doris Duke

Too Rich: The Secret Life of Doris Duke is a 1999 made-for-television movie that highlights the intriguing life of the American philanthropist, Doris Duke. The movie stars Lauren Bacall as the older Doris, Richard Chamberlain as James Cromwell, and Mare Winningham as the younger Doris. The film opens up with the elder Doris passing away and leaving behind a fortune worth billions of dollars. It then goes on to chronicle the fascinating life of Doris Duke, from her tumultuous childhood to her many love affairs, and from her love for art to her philanthropic endeavors.

The movie shows how the young Doris Duke suddenly inherited a vast fortune from her father, a tobacco magnate, after his sudden death. This inheritance put her in the public spotlight, making her the wealthiest woman in America. The movie then shows how she dealt with the pressure of her newfound wealth by indulging in a lavish lifestyle, pursuing her passion for travel, and indulging in numerous love affairs.

One of the most significant relationships in her life was James Cromwell, a renowned Islamic scholar who became her close friend and confidant. The film portrays their friendship as complex, as Doris begins to fall in love with James, who is also her butler. James, however, cannot reciprocate her feelings and marries another woman, which triggers Doris's descent into depression.

The film also delves into Doris's love for art and how she used her wealth to promote it. She became a renowned art collector and patron, curating an impressive collection of artworks from around the world, which she housed in her lavish mansion. However, her interest in art soon turns into an obsession, leading her to spend millions on building the Shangri-La estate in Hawaii, a lavish palace where she could showcase her collection.

The final act of the movie focuses on Doris's philanthropic efforts. She established the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation, which still exists today, to support various causes such as the performing arts, environmental conservation, medical research, and social welfare. The film shows how her philanthropic efforts, combined with her extravagant lifestyle, earned her both admiration and criticism.

Overall, Too Rich: The Secret Life of Doris Duke is a fascinating portrait of a woman whose life was full of intrigue and drama. The performances by the cast, especially Bacall's portrayal of the elderly Doris, are top-notch. The film also serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of wealth and privilege, showing how they can lead to excess and disillusionment. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in the life of one of the most mysterious and enigmatic women of the 20th century.