I've never understood how the ridiculously compelling 1975 documentary Grey Gardens ended up as a Broadway musical. (Given, I haven't seen it, but the whole concept seems wrong somehow.) But now that the trailer is out, I'm getting used to — maybe even fond of — the idea of Grey Gardens as an HBO movie starring Jessica Lange and Drew Barrymore.
Debuting on April 18, Grey Gardens reinterprets the raw slice-of-life captured so gracefully by the Maysles brothers, the documentarians behind Gimme Shelter. Like the documentary, the movie follows the funny, sad, bizarre, and baffling daily lives of "Big Edie" and "Little Edie" Bouvier Beale, aunt and first cousin to Jackie Onassis.
But while the documentary was haunting for its lack of background, explanation, or even captions, the movie offers glimpses into the women's past, so that we might actually learn how they ended up living in squalor in a decaying Hamptons mansion surrounded by countless cats. The Beales' story is so intriguing that after seeing the documentary, I wanted to know much more, so I'm encouraged that the movie might offer that. Also intrigued? Then watch the trailer when you read more.
Vince
Prada
Replay
Every time I see a story about this I just think of Gilmore Girls.
1lol - i didn't think about GG exactly - but ok. i just love to see the different projects that Drew works on since she really likes to mix things up
2I did a double take with the photo. I didn't realize that was Drew.
3I was skeptical at first, but after seeing Drew Barrymore do a dead-on Little Edie, I now can't wait to see this.
4I can't stand Drew Barrymore. They should have left the documentary well enough alone.
5I loved the documentary and am VERY skeptical about this new movie. The only thing that intrigues me is the back story of how they got there.
6Drew should do more films set in this time period; the look really suits her
7The Broadway musical was amazing, and very true to the legacy of both Edies... I think they both would have been proud and thrilled.
8Is Drew wearing a prostetic nose in this pic? The bridge of her nose looks bigger.
9This looks good, I'm going to watch!
BTW this trailer looks great! Can't wait for the movie.
10Is Drew wearing a prostetic nose in this pic? The bridge of her nose looks bigger.
11This looks good, I'm going to watch!
Sorry, double post!
12I'm so much more intrigued now. It looks good. I can't wait!
13I absolutely worship the documentary, the Maysles, and everything about Big and Little Edie. I was veery skeptical when I first heard that Drew would be playing Little Edie. But everything I've seen/read about this movie has me so intrigued and on the edge of my seat. I can't wait. I've heard they both did such a phenomenal job getting into character, and the sets look exactly like the real thing. The production even contacted an old friend-of-a-family-friend who is now in possession of a gold ring that Big Edie gave to her musical friend, Gould, just so that the actor playing Gould could wear the real thing for the film. I am so excited for this.
14I'm very interested...I just love Drew.
15Though I never saw the Broadway production, my friends who did said it was wonderful. I'm really looking forward to seeing this film.
16I've always felt that the documentary exploited the "Edies" a bit, turning their eccentricities into entertainment, and I wonder if the movie will do the same thing.
17To the first poster, it's because Gilmore Girls (of course) cited Grey Gardens once on twice on the series.
18I meant *once OR twice (not on, lol)
19since they are known for the witty pop culture references and all.
HBO is my Favriot
20This looks compelling, I'm interested to see it!
21I can't wait to see this movie. Been waiting a long time. Glad HBO picked it up.
22Post New Comment
Please share your opinion with our community, but make sure it is on topic and follows our Community Rules. We moderate comments and prohibit personal attacks, threats, spam, lewd images, or the promotion of your personal website.