A Streetcar Named Desire

The films of A Streetcar Named Desire

Activity 1

After you have read the play, watch at least one of the film versions. Start by watching the original 1951 film, which is the closest record we have of the original productions. It is far from a perfect representation, however: Williams deplored the censor-imposed rewritten ending and other enforced changes.

As you watch the film, make a mental note of the differences between the film and the play.

After you have watched it, discuss (in pairs, small groups or as a whole class):

·  What changes have been made?

·  Why do you think these changes have been made and what effect do they have upon the characters, themes and the response of the audience? For example, the wording of Blanche’s speech about Alan Grey has been toned down at the studio’s insistence, to soften any references to homosexuality.

·  Consider each actor’s interpretation of her or his character. To what extent do these interpretations coincide with your interpretations of the characters which you formed when reading the play? If you like, you could just focus on the four main characters:

  1. Blanche
  2. Stanley
  3. Stella
  4. Mitch

Now watch the 1984 film, starring Ann-Margaret as Blanche. As you watch the film, make a mental note of the differences between this version and the 1951 film. The 1984 film was not subject to the censorship that plagued Kazan and Williams in 1951.

Version 1 1 © OCR 2015

Streetcar Named Desire

Consider the differences between the two films’ interpretations of the following characters:

  1. Blanche
  2. Stanley
  3. Stella
  4. Mitch

·  What other differences have you noticed between the two films? Which film comes closer to your interpretation of the characters and of the play?

·  Which of the films do you prefer, and why?

Version 1 1 © OCR 2015

Streetcar Named Desire