Most of this movie is pretty damned good, even if you are constantly reminded of other, better films. The basic Tennessee Williams desperate people in a hotel meme makes it hard not to flash on “Night of the Iguana” or “Sweet Bird of Youth.” And Natalie Wood’s southern gal with exploding sexuality was presented with a little more nuance in Splendor in the Grass. Storywise this is pure soap opera and, alas, the last act just. . .wouldn’t. . .ever. . .end. Still, if you are a fan of 60s sexpot Wood (or Robert Redford, for that matter) or just like movies where women scream at each other (and who doesn’t!??) this is for you.
