I think these were certainly well deserved wins for Patty Duke and Anne Bancroft. The energy level they must have had to have to do this type of acting with all the takes etc. must really have been something. I personally don't usually like watching a topic like this - I find it too sad, but this movie is hard to stop watching. I haven't seen it many many years and I still find it compelling? comments?
shareIt is difficult to imagine two performers who seem more 'out there alone, having to depend on each other', and succeeding so brilliantly; to use both actors from the stage version was probably essential to the success of the film
"In your eyes, the light, the heat; in your eyes, I am complete"- Peter Gabriel
The use of Anne Bancroft and Patty Duke in the movie was the best thing that could have happened. Because they had starred on stage they had a trust of one another that is helpful, especially when doing physically demanding thing such as the kitchen scene. Besides, it would have been unfortunate if those performances were not caught on film for those of us who were not able to see the stage version.
What I recall from adult conversation at the time was that there was never any doubt that Ann Bancroft would win. It was one of those years they could have given out the Oscar early. Patty Duke was awfully young to win but the performance couldn't be denied. Time has certainly vindicated that Oscar. Duke is one of the best actresses alive.
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