Mame (1974)

Set in the 1920s, a young orphaned boy (Kirby Furlong) is left in the care of his free thinking and high living aunt (Lucille Ball).  Based on the Broadway musical by way of the novel AUNTIE MAME by Patrick Dennis (filmed in 1958 as a non musical) and directed by Gene Saks. This movie is off in so many ways, where does one start? There's the egregious miscasting of Lucille Ball in the title role, for one. The role of Mame doesn't require a great singer, just someone who can keep in tune but Ball's off key flat hoarse vocals have no life in them. The 1958 film sparkled like champagne but this elephant has no fizz. Gene Saks has directed some good films like BAREFOOT IN THE PARK and CACTUS FLOWER but what made them good were the scripts and the performances, not his nondescript direction. Even the wonderful choreographer Onna White (OLIVER!, BYE BYE BIRDIE) seems defeated by the lackadaisical atmosphere. And frankly, Jerry Herman's score is okay and nowhere near inspired as his songs for HELLO DOLLY! Even if Angela Lansbury had been asked to recreate her stage Mame for this film version, it would still be a mediocre movie. The only actor who shines is Bea Arthur who brings some deliciously acid deliveries as Mame's actress sidekick. With Robert Preston, Bruce Davison, Jane Connell, Don Porter, Audrey Christie, John McGiver, Ruth McDevitt and Joyce Van Patten.