Lansbury in NIGHT MUSIC - what's so special? — Page 2

When I wrote "cuteness," I was was commenting generally. Of course she wasn't playing Mrs. Potts at the Walter Kerr. But .. like EVERY actor.. there are certain default colors to a character one can focus on. "Cuteness" is only ONE such default that Lansbury SOMETIMES - even if momentarily - falls back on.

...

I think the others have understood the humor in what is essentially a prostitute now living the life of Grand Dame "almost" minor royalty.

Armfeldt didn't achieve her security, social position, and grand lifestyle by inheritance, conquering a nation or marriage. She was just an exceptionally skillful lay. She was practical about her sexual talents used them to seduce and satisfy some of the worlds most powerful men.

There is a great line in the film SMILES OF A SUMMER NIGHT where Desiree suggest that her mother write her memoirs, Armfeldt respond with " darling, I got this chateau and all its trappings by promising NOT to write my memoirs."

I don't get that fun sense of sexual history from Lansbury. I get many other wonderful warm and touching colors... but not the hint of crimson past.

---

Updated On: 5/3/10 at 07:33 PM

Updated On: 5/3/10 at 10:42 PM

Almira,
Well written post above.