Much of the reason Bette Davis did this movie was because it was apparently a movie based, in part, on the life of Joan Crawford. While this was never announced by the studio for fear of legal action, Bette apparently delighted in doing the part because she loathed Joan so much! Oddly, the movie also COULD have been based on Davis' life as well, as there were also many parallels, but I doubt if Miss Davis noticed this.
The star in the title refers to a down and out and faded movie star who is all but forgotten and given to getting drunk and screwing up her life. As a result, it is a very tough film to watch, as your skin crawls in embarrassment at just how low this actress has fallen. However, despite this, it is an excellent and "in your face" melodrama about the dark side of stardom. Davis' performance is excellent and just plain creepy!
The star in the title refers to a down and out and faded movie star who is all but forgotten and given to getting drunk and screwing up her life. As a result, it is a very tough film to watch, as your skin crawls in embarrassment at just how low this actress has fallen. However, despite this, it is an excellent and "in your face" melodrama about the dark side of stardom. Davis' performance is excellent and just plain creepy!