Sometimes I'm in the mood to simply watch a gut wrenching movie featuring sappy nostalgia, parents who just don't get it, love that cannot be, girlish tears, and boys that you just wanna sock in the kisser. And when you've run out of Jane Austen movies to watch, Splendor in the Grass does just fine.
Natalie Wood's character, Deanie, was caught up in one of those nightmarish situations where she was told that sexual feelings were wrong and unnatural. And the advice her boyfriend received regarding their relationship wasn't much better. This movie exemplifies the typical 20th century (and earlier) stigma that women often embraced- that their worth was defined by their ability to please a man and to be loved by him.
It's a pretty heart breaking story to watch, at times. Especially if you were ever been involved in one of those high school relationships where intense feelings, social conventions, and hopes for a future all collide into a great big mess. Maybe I can relate to Deanie more than I want to admit, and that's why I love this movie so much.
Of course, Warren Beaty's character, Bud, has his own box of hangups... but you'll just have to watch the movie to see the whole thing unfold.
After reading this post, I'm so intrigued to watch this movie! :)
Posted by: claire | October 11, 2010 at 08:32 AM
I'm on a classic movie kick lately so I love this post! And this movie has always been one of my favorites from when I was young. The problem is it brings me to sobbing every time! I have a love/hate relationship with it because of that! Thanks for the review.
Posted by: Jessica R. | October 11, 2010 at 09:26 AM
WOW!!! I REALLY need to watch this movie ... sounds completely awesome.
Love the shots you shared too! :)
Posted by: Tracey | October 11, 2010 at 09:57 AM
love this movie! Natalie is completely gorgeous in it
Posted by: Vanessa | October 11, 2010 at 10:58 AM
this is one of my favorite movies.
i love natalie in this and warren is to die for. so handsome.
the movie always makes me sad.
but, i am a hopeless romantic..
xoox
Posted by: gee | October 11, 2010 at 11:12 AM
Ooo, good one! I looove Natalie Wood.
Posted by: Katie | October 11, 2010 at 11:20 AM
I used to love that movie as a kid. Then when I got older it made me depressed!! It is so lovely though.
Posted by: Victoria / Justice Pirate | October 11, 2010 at 03:45 PM
thats so funny. Splendour in the grass is a SWEET festival here in Australia. I am really keen to see this film, i wonder if the name was inspired by this film.
thanks for your blog. kim
Posted by: Kim | October 11, 2010 at 09:15 PM
I've always loved this movie. The fashion was amazing and who doesnt love Natalie Wood.
Posted by: heather | October 11, 2010 at 09:22 PM
I love this film so much! natalie wood is always a hair inspiration :)
Posted by: andrea | October 12, 2010 at 02:31 PM
I still have this on VHS this is one of my favorite movies this and This Property is Condemmed , when I was in high school I cut my hair because I felt crazy like Dennie and wanted a change
Posted by: Robin | October 16, 2010 at 04:03 AM