A buried treasure if ever there was one. This movie, released in 1969, is residing in the "where is it now?" file and that's unfortunate because it's an excellent, uncompromising look at the life of an ugly duckling and how she manages to "make it" in the world. It also features Patty Duke's best acting. She's great as a self deprecating social outcast who takes a long time to come to terms with herself. Donning buck teeth and a permanent scowl, Duke carries this film. There's no false notes in the script and Fred Coe's direction is great. Nancy Marchand, Martin Balsam, Salome Jens (unexpectedly cast as a stripper) and James Farentino are in the supporting cast. Elsa Lanchester has a cameo as Duke's daffy landlady. Al Pacino made his film debut as a creep who rejects Duke at a school dance. The songs are by Rod McKuen & Henry Mancini and the NYC location photography is by Arthur J. Ornitz.
Review of Me, Natalie
