TMI (Today’s Movie Info)
VALLEY OF THE DOLLS (1967) was based on the top selling novel of 1966 by Jacqueline Susann, who pulled much of the material from her time as a stage and struggling wanna-be film actress, and her behind the scenes look at the entertainment world thanks to her marriage to Irving Mansfield, a renowned PR expert.
Judy Garland was originally cast as Helen Lawson, but was replaced by Susan Heyward after the producers became frustrated with Ms. Garland’s behavior. Oddly, Judy Garland kept her costume from the movie and was often seen wearing the sequined pantsuit at her live concert performances.
Lead actress Barbara Parkins (as Anne Welles) also starred in the TV series “Peyton Place” (1964-69)
Director Mark Robson also directed the film version of Peyton Place (1957)
Composer John Williams received the FIRST of his 45 Academy Award nominations for this film. He is considered a front runner for another nomination in 2012 (War Horse, The Adventures of Tintin).
Richard Dreyfuss made his big screen debut in this film
Raquel Welch was originally offered the role of Jennifer North. When she turned it down, Sharon Tate was cast. Of course, in 1969 Ms. Tate became a victim in the notorious Tate-LaBianca murders carried out by the Charles Manson “family”. At the time of her murder, Ms. Tate was pregnant with the child of her husband, director Roman Polanski.
The film is often listed among the Worst Films of all-time, as well as the Campiest Films of all-time … but despite the brutal lashing it took from critics, it was a huge box office success.
Movie Reviews from the Dark 