Young John Malkovich (not that young) plays Tom Wingfield in the filmed version of Tennessee Williams' famed play, "The Glass Menagerie."Problem is, "Menagerie" isn't that good of a play to begin with (definitely one of Williams' weaker works), and it shows to be true on screen. Joanne Woodward is way over-the-top (and still projecting as if this were on stage) and her Southern dialect is quite factitious. Everything, to a point, including Paul Newman's direction (yes, the actor), and even minorly Malkovich's performance is hugely theatrical. The narration devices fail, and the abstinence from the outside world, or anything away from the chaotic house, is virulent. Karen Allen as the daughter, manages to be unannoyingly mousy, but often feels like an outsider or absentee from the production. Regardless, she had a sweet presence and decently handled her role. The movie has nice, clear photography and several nicely juiced scenes.Final Verdict: C.
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