Sometimes even I am not as gay as I want to be. I had never watched Mommie Dearest until 2 days ago when I rented a copy of the re-released DVD. On Monday, I watched it for the first time, yesterday, I’ve seen it with the John Waters audio commentary switched on.
Mommie Dearest is considered a gay camp classic. It was the big winner at the Razzies in 1981, taking home 5 awards of the 9 nominations. This is always a good sign.
The film is based on the book written by Christina Crawford, the adopted daughter of actress Joan Crawford. The book was one of the first tell-all stories about the childhood and relationship with a celebrity mother.
Many scenes in this movie reminded me of the John Waters classic, Female Trouble, which was shot before Mommie Dearest. The scenes when Christina childplays an actress, her mother, brought the car accident Taffy plays in Female Trouble to my mind. Or when Taffy gets beat and strangled by Divine, there are scences like this with Joan and Christina Crawford. I think there is a lot of Taffy in this film. And just imagine Joan Crawford played by Divine instead of Faye Dunaway.
Hear what John Waters has to say about the film, his audio commentary is a special feature on the re-release:
Introduction
When to watch Mommie Dearest
Eyebrow movie
And some screenshots:

I love the opening shot. Very mysterious.

It’s all about the stairs.

Diva stairs.

This is how I want to look when I receive presents.

One of the best shower scenes.

Ever.

Wet hair style.

Wonderful.

The dress and the roses.

Tina! Bring me the ax!

This is it.

No more wire hangers –

– ever!
The film has more great moments for your pleasure and I don’t want to give anymore details away, just in case you are like me and havn’t seen the flick. But the ax and the wire hangers scenes are probably the best known excerpts and they certainly shoot Mommie Dearest over the top.
If you happen to be in San Francisco in August, be sure to go to Peaches Christ Midnight Mass screening of the movie. The evening includes the performance of Trannie Dearest, a play by Peaches Christ and Heklina. This is going to be hilarious!
And, you can always buy the DVD.