"What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?" stands as a significant American psychological horror thriller film from 1962, directed and produced by Robert Aldrich. This cinematic endeavor, starring Bette Davis and Joan Crawford, also marked Victor Buono's major film debut. The movie's screenplay, adapted by Lukas Heller from Henry Farrell's novel of the same name, delves into the unsettling story of an aging former child star who torments her paraplegic sister,
also a former film star, within the confines of a decaying Hollywood mansion. Beyond its compelling narrative, the film achieved notable success both critically and commercially, leaving a lasting impact on the careers of its lead actresses.
The production of "What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?" took place in Los Angeles during the summer of 1962, operating on a budget of approximately $1 million. The film's distribution was handled by Warner Bros. Pictures. Its premiere occurred in Cincinnati on October 31, 1962, followed by a wider release in various U.S. cities the subsequent week. This initial rollout quickly established the film's commercial viability and critical standing, setting the stage for its enduring legacy.
Commercial Triumph and Career Revival
"What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?" proved to be a substantial box-office hit. By November 18, 1962, just weeks after its premiere, the film had already recouped its entire production cost. Its financial success continued to grow, with gross receipts reaching $4 million by February 1963. Ultimately, the film garnered a total of $9 million in theatrical rentals across North America. This impressive performance made it the second-highest earning film release in the United States during the week of November 21, 1962.
This commercial triumph was particularly significant for its stars, Bette Davis and Joan Crawford. The film provided both actresses with their biggest hit in over a decade, effectively reviving their careers. The supposed on-set feuds between Davis and Crawford, though later denied by the actresses, added an intriguing layer to the film's publicity and contributed to its widespread interest, further fueling its success and public discussion.
Critical Acclaim and Academy Recognition
Beyond its financial achievements, "What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?" was met with widespread critical acclaim. This positive reception was underscored by its recognition at the Academy Awards, where it received five nominations. Among these nominations, Bette Davis earned her tenth and final nomination for Best Actress, a testament to her powerful performance in the film.
The film ultimately secured one Academy Award, winning for Best Costume Design, Black-and-White. This accolade, alongside its numerous nominations and positive critical reviews, solidified its place as a respected and impactful work within the psychological horror thriller genre. The combination of critical praise, significant box office returns, and its role in revitalizing the careers of its legendary stars cemented "What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?" as a memorable and important film in cinematic history.
