Post by spiderwort on Sept 1, 2017 19:09:39 GMT
Rosalind Russell refused to accept studio (Columbia) consideration for a SUPPORTING Oscar for the film after a 20-year status as a leading lady. Too bad -- her riveting performance as 'Rosemary the Schoolteacher' was certainly a worthy nominee and a possible winner (Jo Van Fleet took that prize for her short but poignant role in EAST OF EDEN). Eileen Heckart played the part on stage.
Hairy-chested Holden had to shave that part of his muscular anatomy for the role (see it in all its glory in the swimming pool scene in SUNSET BLVD). He was probably too old for the role (37, and looked it) while 'Hal Carter' was supposed to be in his mid-to-late 20s (character originator Ralph Meeker didn't look it either). But his image is so indelible in the part that really no one else could have played it -- not even a James Dean.
Holden did not like his character very much, and was petrified making the dance sequence -- because HE COULD NOT DANCE! (but he still managed to fake it beautifully).
Paul Newman played the Cliff Robertson role in the play, and Joanne Woodward was Janice Rule's understudy as 'Madge' -- that's where the eventual long-married celebrity couple first met. Kim Stanley played younger sister 'Millie.' Quite a cast.
The picnic sequences (pure Midwestern mid-50s Americana) were wonderfully created for the film, and do not appear in the play (Hal dismisses the idea of it, telling Madge: "We ain't goin' to no G-D picnic!")
Oh, Matt, thanks for all the wonderful background. I know it all, of course, but I'm glad you're the one to tell it. And I agree with you about the "opening up" of the play - in this case, on location, it worked so beautifully. The picnic scenes were wonderful. And here's something you may or may not know: Independence, Kansas, Inge's hometown, actually has a Neewalah celebration every year (or I believe they still do). And I, too, thought O'Connell's performance was wonderful - he doesn't get mentioned that often. Inge (along with Kazan) was my great inspiration who started me down the road to the theatre and films. And while I was fortunate to get to spend time with and know Kazan, sadly, Inge left before I had a chance. But I did attend his memorial service in Beverly Hills, and when I did I sat next to Arthur O'Connell, who was overwhelmed with sadness. It was heartbreaking to all who were there.
Anyway, so glad to hear your love of this film - and I suspect the play, too. Since you know the picnic didn't happen in it, I'm sure you've read it, or perhaps even seen it. I do love the film, but oh, I would have loved to have seen it on Broadway with that cast.