Max Meridius

Personally, I grew up with Shirley and I know her style when it comes to acting. This role could not have been done by anyone else. That's a fact. Only Shirley had the street cred to do this role. And at 82? That's saying something. She was impeccable in this role. Seyfried on the other hand had issues. She was not comfortable doing this role. Shirley may have intimidated her to a large degree which is what I felt as I watched her. She tried, she really did and she did acceptable in the role, but I think they probably could have found someone else to bring a little more believability to the role. Anne Heche? Please. I am so glad that she didn't have any more screen time than she did. She's obnoxious enough to be able to stand up to Shirley, but talent? Not even a consideration. Heche made what little rep she has on her obnoxious behavior, nothing more. The little black girl - Brenda. This little girl stole every scene she was in basically. Strong, energetic, confident and outrageous. Very enjoyable watch. Wonder how she will shape up as an adult actress if she stays in the business? The combination of the 3 (Shirley, Brenda & Seyfried) actually worked as a nice trio. Brenda took up the slack for Seyfried. Shirley owned all her own scenes. The movie is definitely worth a watch. If you have the persona of trying to control situations, this movie (if you are honest with yourself) will ring home in a very unique way. If you are in denial about who you are, it may still ring home, but on a different level. Is there any comedy in this movie? Kinda sorta. But, it is far more a drama than a comedy. There are some funny lines, but it's a serious story overall. I liked it.