A Streetcar Named Desire: Beauty and the Beautiful Beast

Going Hollywood - Movies and Television from the Golden Age to Today

S01 E14 Ever wonder how a single film could change Hollywood forever with one titanic screen performance? Well, one did, and it's called "A Streetcar Named Desire". Join us as we dissect Marlon Brando's unforgettable performance as the animalistic Stanley Kowalski and his seismic impact on the acting world and on film itself, reshaping it with his raw, naturalistic approach. Besides his magnetic presence in those skin-tight t-shirts, we debate whether or not Vivien Leigh was the right choice to cast as Blanche DuBois, and what inevitable comparisons with her other great screen belle, Scarlett O'Hara, brought to her performance, as well as celebrating the incredible contributions of Kim Hunter, Karl Malden, and the visionary direction of Elia Kazan. Brad and Tony also share their personal experiences with this timeless piece that forever altered the landscape of cinema and theatre.
They dive into the complicated plot structure and the cast's electrifying performances. The challenges of translating the play into film under the watchful eyes of the production code are explored, as well as Kazan's efforts to protect Tennessee Williams' vision while rebalancing the narrative.
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You can find transcripts, a link to Tony's website, and a link to Brad's website at www.goinghollywoodpodcast.com
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