One of the great high camp performances in the history of cinema, right up there with Faye Dunaway in MOMMIE DEAREST. How hysterically funny was Perkins in this movie? From his inability to get it up while attempting to make love to Tracy to his sick come on to Brian with the gun and his grossly hilarious suicide in the speeding car while he took pictures of Tracy because he "wanted to see death." Perkins was a riot in this movie.
shareI agree. The infamous gun scene comes totally out of left field in this film. If Mahogany hasn't "jumped the shark" for you by the time the gun scene comes around, then you're not paying attention.
That scene just oozes with homoeroticism. Firearms being used to symbolize male genitalia is nothing new in cinema. Even in 1975. But in the overheard shot right before Billy Dee Williams pulls the trigger on the gun, Perkins is on his back with his legs spread wide open while Williams is on top. When the camera goes to a side shot, Perkins' legs are together. Not very subtle!
As over the top as Anthony Perkins was in this role, he is still totally believable! I know because he gave me the creeps! Nobody could do that as well as he.
Why Tracy decides to drip hot candle wax on herself after her fight with Williams is beyond me? Was into Masochism? Was she a cutter too? Sheesh!