Daisy Miller-1974

Director Peter Bogdanovich

Starring Cybill Shepherd, Cloris Leachman 

Scott’s Review #383

Reviewed March 6, 2016

Grade: B

Daisy Miller is a largely forgotten 1974 film based on a Henry James novella of the same name, directed by Peter Bogdanovich and starring then-girlfriend Cybill Shepherd in the title role.

I admire the film in certain respects, but ultimately rank it as good, not spectacular. I pondered the film afterward and had a feeling that something was missing from it.

The story, set in the late 1800s, tells of a wealthy upstate New York family, led by the naïve Daisy Miller (Shepherd), visiting Europe in hopes of becoming more cultured and worldly, but instead is largely met with defiance and snobbery from European sophisticates. Daisy attempts to find love with her numerous potential suitors.

The film is largely shot in Switzerland and Italy.

The romantic story between Daisy and upper-class Frederick Winterbourne is the focal point. Daisy, a chatterbox and flirt, captures Winterbourne’s fancy, and he gradually woos her. Still, he is conflicted by social norms and by her innocent involvement with other men, most notably the dashing Italian Giovanelli.

This leads to conflict. I noticed some chemistry between Daisy and Winterbourne.

Bogdanovich, who only directed a handful of films, including the masterpiece The Last Picture Show (1971), uses several great actors in both films.

In addition to Shepherd, Cloris Leachman, and Eileen Brennan appear in supporting roles. Leachman as Daisy’s equally chatty and naïve mother, and Brennan as the vicious socialite Mrs. Parker.

Brennan, in particular, shines. Outstanding at playing snobs and unique character roles, this was right up Brennan’s alley, and she almost steals the show.

I adored the cinematography and the costumes featured in the production and thought both were the film’s main strengths.

The clothing the characters wear is both gorgeous and believable for the period. The backdrop in the hotel garden scene is exquisite and picturesque, with the lake, sky, and mountain all in full view, creating a unique viewing experience.

I also found the subject of cultural class distinctions quite interesting. The Millers are rich but uneducated and unlikable- they live in Schenectady and are considered far beneath the clever, intelligent figures of Europe.

They do not measure up and lack the same breeding and class as many of the other characters.

Adding to this is the fact that the Millers never really seemed all that interested in being in Europe, almost taking the opportunity for granted, so I was never completely captured by the Millers or found them particularly sympathetic as a group.

Given that she is the focus, I found Daisy Miller a bit unlikable, which could be due to the casting of Shepherd. Daisy’s endless rants, largely about herself, teetered on annoying, to say nothing of her irritating little brother.

Sure, Daisy is sweet and kindhearted, but there is something that did not compel me about her. She was a less charismatic, northern version of Scarlett O’Hara.

I kept wondering if other actresses might have brought more to the character and given her more muscle. Was this role a showcase for Shepherd because of her relationship with Bogdanovich?

The conclusion of the film surprised me, featuring a downcast ending I did not expect, given the sunny mood of the rest of the film, and this is to Bogdanovich’s credit.

He certainly did not make a mainstream film, and I admire that.

Daisy Miller (1974) is a mixed bag for me. I admire some aspects, but the story and the casting could have used a bit of work.

Oscar Nominations: Best Costume Design