Sunday, November 27, 2022
Wanda
- Commentary: Under construction.
Just a note, here, to remind me to talk about this later, when I "officially" write-up this movie: this movie is about the aimlessness and despair that plagues many women's lives here in the U.S. (and other places, and times, for that matter) but that we not only don't want to talk about, we don't even want to acknowledge. Why? I suspect our reticence (and obliviousness) is because still, still, today, in this still men-ruled world, women aren't really recognized as human, yet; we are relegated to the roles of unacknowledged robo-people, here to serve children and men. Even women who seem to have "accomplished", according to men (of course), are quick to point out if they are wives and mothers, as well, and how "successful" they are in pulling off this three or four pronged life stint, and quick to hide their lack of such roles. Can you believe we're still living under these overwhelming societal strictures???
One last, hmmm, should I say "rant"? Of all the bylined reviews I was able to find about this movie (and there weren't that many), most were written by men. Take note of the rundown of critics and their reviews listed in Rotten Tomatoes: Wanda Reviews - All Critics.
You might be thinking, "Well, good! Men need to see this film." I think, though, women need to see it, more. It is devastating to watch if you're a woman, especially a woman under the influence of U.S. culture, take it from me. Even if, as a woman, you can't relate to Wanda's specific journey in this movie, you'll find something about her womanhood (the real mise en scène of this movie) that will draw a gasp of recognition from you.
And, of course, more women movie reviewers are needed. Good luck with that.
In addition to the review of this film attached to the title of this post, check out Glenn Erickson's (DVD Savant) review of this film.
Actor Role Actor Role Actor Role Actor Role Barbara Loden Wanda Goronski Michael Higgins Norman Dennis Frank Jourdano The Soldier Valerie Manches Girl in Roadhouse Dorothy Shupenes Wanda's Sister Peter Shupenes Wanda's Brother-in-Law Jerome Thier Wanda's Husband Marian Thier Miss Godek Anthony Rotell Tony M. L. Kennedy Judge Gerald Grippo Court Clerk Milton Gittleman Factory Owner
Here's a link to the Wikipedia write-up of the film.
Release Date: 1970
Directed by Barbara Loden.
Labels: Criterion5, female-director3, women's-movie2
