An incendiary portrait of Hollywood icon Joan Crawford, Mommie Dearest sees Faye Dunaway deliver a blistering turn, charting a volatile, abusive relationship with Crawford’s adopted daughter, Christina. The film’s initial critical backlash and negative public reception effectively stalled Dunaway’s career, yet its heightened performances and infamous – and highly quotable – moments have since been reclaimed, transforming it into a cult favourite, an enduring camp classic that continues to provoke fascination and debate.

Notes by David O’Mahony

Screening as part of the Faye Dunaway season.