Mommie Dearest

Mommie Dearest

Year: 1981

Runtime: 129 min

Language: English

Director: Frank Perry

BiographyDrama

This film explores the complex and often difficult life of legendary actress Joan Crawford, portrayed by Faye Dunaway. The story follows Crawford as she adopts two children, hoping to build a loving family. However, as her personal and professional life faces setbacks, her relationship with her daughter Christina, played by Diana Scarwid, deteriorates into a cycle of control and emotional abuse. The narrative culminates in a painful struggle for Christina’s independence and a revealing look at the darker side of Hollywood fame.

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Timeline – Mommie Dearest (1981)

Trace every key event in Mommie Dearest (1981) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Joan's Morning Routine

The film opens with Joan Crawford, portrayed by Faye Dunaway, starting her day at dawn with an intense morning routine. Her obsessive behavior is highlighted as she scrubs her face and uses icy alcohol, reflecting her demanding nature and need for control.

Early morning MGM Studios
2

Conflict with the Maid

Joan's perfectionism is on display when she loses her temper at her new maid for a minor error in cleaning. This scene reveals Joan's tyrannical tendencies and the atmosphere of fear she creates around her.

Joan's home
3

Desire for Motherhood

During a quiet moment with her boyfriend Gregg Savitt, Joan shares her longing for a child, reflecting on her heartbreaking past of seven miscarriages. This discussion underscores her desperation to build a family amidst her failing career.

4

The Adoption of Christina

After her unsuccessful attempts at adoption, Joan employs questionable tactics to finally have a baby, whom she names Christina Crawford. This event marks a significant turning point in her life as she strives to mold her new daughter.

5

Christina's Childhood

The narrative shifts to Christina's early years, emphasizing Joan's simultaneous affection and harsh discipline. Despite Joan's extravagant celebrations, her manipulation and desire for control manifest in alarming ways, like donating most of Christina’s birthday gifts.

Childhood
6

Tension Over a Pool Race

A seemingly innocent competition leads to an explosive confrontation between Joan and Christina. Joan lashes out at her daughter for a perceived lack of sportsmanship, showcasing the escalating tension in their relationship.

Pool
7

Restaurant Incident

An incident at a restaurant triggers a critical turning point in Joan's relationship with Gregg, leading to their abrupt split. Joan’s irrational behavior spirals after the confrontation, marking the beginning of her deeper struggles.

Restaurant
8

Destruction of the Rose Garden

In a fit of rage after being ousted from MGM, Joan destroys her cherished rose garden. This chaotic scene symbolizes her mental unraveling and serves as a dramatic visual representation of her crumbling life.

Joan's garden
9

The Wire Hanger Incident

In a particularly chilling moment, Joan confronts a frightened Christina over a dress on a wire hanger, leading to a horrific display of aggression. This assault epitomizes Joan's abusive nature and the trauma inflicted on Christina.

Late night Joan's home
10

Christina's Teenage Years

As Christina matures into her teenage years, tensions between her and Joan escalate further. A confrontation over a harmless incident at school culminates in a violent fallout, vividly illustrating Joan’s controlling nature.

School
11

Confrontation with the Reporter

During a visit from a reporter, Christina and her brother challenge Joan about her motives behind their adoption and enduring abuse. This confrontation highlights the growing voices of the children against Joan's tyrannical rule.

12

Sent to Convent School

Following a particularly violent episode, Christina is sent away to a convent school. This decision further distances her from Joan, forcing her to carve out her own path in life while dealing with the trauma of her upbringing.

Convent school
13

Joan's Marriage to Alfred Steele

Joan marries Alfred Steele, the CEO of Pepsi Cola, bringing a new dimension to her life filled with luxury yet marked by underlying controversies. This transition into a more opulent lifestyle does not alleviate her ongoing conflict with Christina.

14

Final Break and Resentment

Despite moments of reconciliation, Joan undermines Christina's aspirations by taking roles meant for younger actresses, reigniting their longstanding feud. This culminates in a shocking reveal of Joan's will, leaving Christina and Christopher disinherited.

Joan's home
15

Christina's Resolve

In the aftermath of Joan's death, Christina contemplates writing a book to expose the truth of her childhood. With a newfound determination, she decides to reclaim her narrative and affirm that she and her brother will not allow their mother to have the final word.

Last Updated: October 28, 2024 at 17:47

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Mommie Dearest Summary

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Mommie Dearest Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Mommie Dearest

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Mommie Dearest

More About Mommie Dearest

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