What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?

"What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?" is a psychological thriller that delves into the toxic relationship between two aging sisters, Jane and Blanche Hudson, who were once celebrated stars in Hollywood. In their decaying mansion, the former child vaudeville sensation, "Baby Jane" (Bette Davis), torments her paraplegic sister, Blanche (Joan Crawford), who had eclipsed her fame as a movie star. The film opens by establishing their dynamic in childhood: Jane as the spoiled star and Blanche as the resentful sister living in her shadow.

Years later, their roles are reversed. Blanche became a successful actress while Jane's career faded into alcoholism and obscurity. A mysterious car accident in 1935 left Blanche paralyzed, with Jane unofficially blamed. By 1962, they live in isolation, with a resentful and mentally unstable Jane as Blanche's reluctant caregiver. Jane's abuse escalates when she learns of Blanche's plan to sell the house, fearing she will be institutionalized. Jane's desperate attempt to revive her childhood act, coupled with her increasing paranoia, leads to a horrifying climax of psychological and physical cruelty.

At its core, "What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?" is a cautionary tale about the destructive nature of jealousy, resentment, and the refusal to let go of the past. The director, Robert Aldrich, explores the dark side of Hollywood fame and how the entertainment industry can chew up and spit out its stars, leaving them emotionally scarred and unable to cope with obscurity. The film serves as a powerful commentary on sibling rivalry, demonstrating how unresolved childhood conflicts can fester and erupt into monstrous behavior in adulthood. It also examines the theme of identity, as Jane is tragically trapped in the persona of her childhood self, unable to accept the reality of her faded stardom. Ultimately, the film suggests that living in the past and harboring hatred can lead to a complete and terrifying loss of sanity.

While the film presents Jane as the clear villain and Blanche as the victim, some interpretations suggest a more nuanced reading of their relationship. One perspective is that Blanche is not entirely innocent and, in fact, may have been a manipulative force in Jane's life long before the events of the film. Her final confession reveals a capacity for malice and deceit, suggesting that she may have subtly tormented Jane for years, contributing to her sister's mental decline.

Another interpretation views the film as a critique of the Hollywood studio system and its treatment of aging actresses. The grotesque and pitiable figures of Jane and Blanche can be seen as products of an industry that values youth and beauty above all else, discarding its stars once they no longer fit a certain mold. From this perspective, the true villain is not Jane or Blanche, but the cruel and unforgiving world of show business.

"What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?" had a profound cultural impact, revitalizing the careers of its two aging stars and spawning a new subgenre of horror known as 'psycho-biddy' or 'hagsploitation'. This genre featured former glamorous actresses in grotesque and terrifying roles, often exploring themes of aging, madness, and female rivalry. The film was a critical and commercial success, proving that films headlined by older women could be box office hits.

The film's influence can be seen in numerous subsequent thrillers and horror films, including Stephen King's "Misery." It has also become a cult classic, celebrated for its camp aesthetic and the legendary performances of Bette Davis and Joan Crawford. The on-screen and off-screen rivalry between the two stars has become a part of Hollywood lore, further cementing the film's place in popular culture. The character of Baby Jane Hudson was ranked #44 on the American Film Institute's list of the 50 greatest movie villains.

Upon its release, "What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?" was a box office success and received generally positive reviews from critics. Audiences were both thrilled and shocked by the film's psychological horror and the no-holds-barred performances of Bette Davis and Joan Crawford. Davis's portrayal of the unhinged Jane was particularly praised, earning her an Academy Award nomination. The film's campy elements and dark humor have also contributed to its enduring popularity, making it a cult classic. While some contemporary viewers may find the pacing slow, the film's suspense and the powerful acting of its leads continue to resonate with audiences.