Mmm, tasteful: Irving and Jackie (Lane and Midler) make a big splash wherever they go.
Susann (Midler) always wanted to be famous. And she wasn't going to give up just because she couldn't get a break singing or acting. Then she meets press agent Irving Mansfield (Lane), who dedicates himself to taking care of her ... and realising her dream. It takes awhile, but eventually she writes the trashy bestseller Valley of the Dolls and secures herself a place in history. But life isn't exactly easy behind all the laughter and glitz.
Midler is in top scene-chewing form, far over the top and still utterly loveable. Channing shines very brightly indeed in the scene-stealing best friend role. And the cast is rounded out of kitsch comedy pros, while Bergman keeps the energy level high and the colours vibrant. The film entertains with its sheer outrageousness--kind of like a Susann novel. There's never a dull moment, the costumes and hairstyles are fabulous, and the real-life thread running throughout gives it just a tiny shade of meaning. It's a shame the story's meaty aspects aren't addressed more directly, because the rare serious scenes do have power. But the filmmakers were going for fluff and effervescence instead ... and they certainly got that right.
[15--adult themes, language] 13.Apr.00 LLGFF
US release 28.Jan.00; UK release 23.Jun.00
