If Dollypop hasn't seen a movie in what, almost 35 years, I don't think she should be judging Barbra Streisand's work based on one movie. Along the same lines, nor should she be judging Channing's work for the performance of one role that she saw about 50 years ago (and subsequently thereafter).
We've all heard good things and bad about many a mega-star. Barbra is an easy target -- but Channing is almost an easier one!
Channing originated an impressive HANDFUL of roles on Broadway -- to great acclaim -- but that's about it. She never really had much of a film career (except for an incredibly undeserved Oscar nomination for THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE and maybe a small role here or there.)
Channing may have received standing ovations, but come on, Dollypop, don't you realize that Streisand is an international star with millions and millions of fans? Something tells me that Barbra has most certainly received her share of standing o's.
Dollypop asks "when was the last time Streisand did 8 shows a week?" Well, since you ask...
When was the last time Channing directed a major motion picture, won Oscars, Emmys, Grammys, wrote music, etc.? To not care for Streisand as a performer is understandable. To take to heart stories of how difficult she is to work with is all based on heresay anyway, unless you, personally, have worked with her. To call Streisand "stupid" and to say that she doesn't have one "iota" of talent is obviously and startlingly ridiculous. A stupid, or untalented person wouldn't have been working for umpteen years in the business, stretching herself, expanding her creativity, etc. Unlike the beloved Channing (whom I do happen to like) who played Dolly over and over and over and over again. Can you say limited?! Granted, she's a great Dolly, but that's about it. There's Lorelei, etc., but those roles have faded into oblivion.
And, just for the record, when you quoted my praise for Michael Crawford in the film HELLO DOLLY, it was the only time I have ever liked him in ANYTHING, so I thought I'd give him the credit where it was due. His Cornelius Hackl is terrific.
Both Channing and Streisand are Broadway legends. Undeniable, Dollypop. Time to face the facts. Additionally, Streisand is ALSO a film legend. The same can't be said for Channing.
I like them both, but if we had to do a "career/talent scorecard" of sorts, I think every reasonable person reading this would know who would get the better grade.
Itty Bitty Geisha?
Toyland?
Gypsy Pasadoble?
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Updated On: 6/26/03 at 11:50 AM