Although the television remake is truer to the original script Bette Midler was a dreadful Mama Rose she peaked way too early for us to care about her. by the time Rose' Turn happens we want her to shut up. Roz Russell has so much more depth in the role playing the caracter, not just the songs. True she is a bit weak vocally but she is always on key and the emotional levels are right on. Natalie Wood is charming as Louise and Virbrantly sexy as Gypsy. her transformation is flawless.Malden is avery good Herbie but too bad they cut "together" The three actors would hae been a joy to watch in that number. Over all this is a very good film. not perfect but it hits the right chords.
