Maggie Smith (1934 - 2024)

First encountered at the drive-in when I was 5

in the V.I.P.s (1963, Anthony Asquith)

as Rod Taylor's lovestruck secretary.

Always charming, insightful and moving. RIP.

I'm Dangerous Tonight (1990)

Watched this last night.

Out of admiration for Hooper of course. 

Also, for Madchen Amick. Not disappointed. 

It's mild for Hooper, but something he was invested in. 

Minor but not bad. Has elements of Cinderella early on. 

Amy making the dress for her drunken Aunt and 

reminded repeatedly of her place in the household. 

And her penniless state. Natilie Schafer, as grandma, 

with her ancient, masklike, features is pure Hooper. 

 An extratextual element in Lovey Howell 

being reduced to an estate of $400 and a wedding ring. 

Hooper's work was never about gore anyway.

 Few of his usual flourishes, but visually 

accomplished as always. Well-cast as well.

One wonders what Professor Anthony Perkins

has planned for the remnants he digs up at story's end.

Imagine a sequel where he remakes it as red loincloth.

Luring virile young Mexican men to his sacrificial altar.