The Anniversary-1968

Director Roy Ward Baker

Starring Bette Davis

Scott’s Review #52

Reviewed June 21, 2014

Grade: B+

The Anniversary (1968) is a British film based on a play of the same name.

The story centers on the Taggert family reunion, celebrating the anniversary of the matriarch (Bette Davis) and the deceased patriarch.

The film is set like a play, and most of the action takes place inside the Taggert family mansion.

The film is all Davis, and she gives a deliciously over-the-top performance as a vicious mother intent on controlling her son’s life and terrorizing their wives or significant others with cutting remarks and insults.

Davis must have had fun with this role, as her storied career was clearly on the downturn, and this role allowed her to let loose.

One must wonder if Davis chewed up the actors in the cast as much as the characters- rumor has it she was pretty intimidating to her fellow actors and a terror to work with, which adds to the macabre enjoyment.

Her physical appearance, with an eye patch, wig, cigarette, and bright red lipstick, all work in her favor. Her maniacal laugh is incredibly campy and wonderful to watch.

Bette Davis is one of the greats, and The Anniversary (1968) serves as a late-career romp that is fun to watch.