MovieChat Forums > Flamingo Road (1949) Discussion > Joan makes this one a classic

Joan makes this one a classic

posted 14 years ago by markedjuan
3 replies | jump to latest

Slick direction, a tight script and Joan Crawford and Sidney Greenstreet make this one a winner -- even if I think Joan was a bit too mature to play the lead role. I can picture younger actresses like Susan Hayward, Ava Gardner, Lauren Bacall, Eleanor Parker or Rita Hayworth in the part. And still, thanks to Joan's legendary charisma and sheer acting talent, she makes the role all her own. Flamingo Road is one of the best movies of 1949. I even like it better than Mildred Pierce.

[–] 14 years ago

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[–] FilmNoirOnline 14 years ago

Flamingo Road is a classic - no question. I agree with you about Joan Crawford, too, a stunning performance that is underrated in my opinion. I also wondered about the part going to Crawford at her age, but when I thought about it, I couldn't see one of the younger actresses having the same authenticity. That role required a woman you could actually believe standing up to Titus Semple, someone who has been around the block and couldn't be intimidated. Joan Crawford fit the bill and, as you said, she made that role all her own. Great film.

[–] 14 years ago

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