Toys in the Attic

In New Orleans two ageing sisters have worked all their lives to support their brother Julian. Years later he turns up with a young wife, presents, and money from an unexplained source. The sisters are not pleased: his success removes their only function in life. The film is not interested in the money. It is interested in the desire to be needed: the sisters want Julian to go on being rescued, and to ensure it they invite disaster with their own hands. The form is close to southern gothic: heat, a closed house, buried family secrets and theatrical dialogue. The source is Lillian Hellman's play. Her usual subject, domination wearing the costume of good intentions, is at the centre here too. George Roy Hill directed, early in his career; he would later make Butch Cassidy and The Sting. Geraldine Page and Wendy Hiller play the sisters, Dean Martin plays Julian and Yvette Mimieux the young wife. Who it is for: viewers who like stage adaptations, southern gothic and strong women's roles. Who it is not for: anyone expecting cinematic movement. The film does not disguise its stage origins and takes place almost entirely inside the house.