The Great Lillian Hall is a melodrama that captures the essence of theater life while delivering a deeply human exploration of mortality and legacy. Directed by Michael Cristofer and penned by Elisabeth Seldes Annacone, the film stars Jessica Lange as the titular Lillian Hall, a Broadway legend grappling with early dementia during rehearsals for a revival of Chekhov’s The Cherry Orchard. Loosely inspired by the life of stage actress Marian Seldes, Annacone’s aunt, offers a masterclass in acting, anchored by Lange’s transcendent performance.
Jessica Lange delivers what may be one of the finest performances of her illustrious career as Lillian Hall, a revered actress whose identity is inseparable from the stage. At 75, Lange imbues Lillian with a delicate balance of grandeur and vulnerability, capturing the character’s fierce determination to perform despite her fading memory. Her portrayal avoids the pitfalls of over-dramatization, presenting dementia with an authenticity that is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. Whether delivering Chekhov’s lines with theatrical flair or unraveling in private moments of confusion, Lange’s performance is the film’s emotional core, making every scene she inhabits feel alive.
The supporting cast elevates the film, with Kathy Bates shining as Edith, Lillian’s loyal assistant. Bates brings a mix of humor and quiet compassion, grounding the story with a authentic portrayal. Visually, the film captures the intimacy of Broadway’s world, with lush shots of rehearsal spaces and Lillian’s elegant Upper West Side apartment. The production design, though filmed in Georgia rather than New York, convincingly evokes the theater district’s allure.
The Great Lillian Hall is a love letter to the theater, celebrating the sacrifices and joys of a life dedicated to art. It challenges the stereotype of the narcissistic star, presenting Lillian as a woman capable of kindness and loyalty, even as she grapples with her own ego. The film’s exploration of dementia is handled with care, showing its devastating impact without reducing Lillian to a victim. The ending strikes a bittersweet note, celebrating Lillian’s legacy while acknowledging the inevitability of her decline. It’s a fitting tribute to the theater’s enduring power and the fleeting nature of life.
The Great Lillian Hall is a must-watch, Jessica Lange’s performance alone is worth the price of admission, supported by a talented cast and a story that resonates with anyone who has faced the tension between passion and personal cost.
The Great Lillian Hall arrives at Luna Palace Cinemas Thursday, Jun 5, 2025.
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