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Poster for Mommie Dearest

Mommie Dearest

Seen it?

1981 | 129 min | Drama

Weeknight Watch

Why it’s a Weeknight Watch

It's still drawing plenty of interest, but middling reviews (50% on Rotten Tomatoes) and a lukewarm 6.4 out of 10 from audiences held it back. Fine if it's on; don't plan your night around it.

Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.

Is it for you?

Who'll love it
Made for anyone who loves a strong drama. If you loved To Kill a Mockingbird, start here.
The mood
Thoughtful and character-driven.
The pace
Takes its time with its characters, at 2 hr 9 min.
What might put you off
  • Rated PG. Worth a look first if you have very young kids.
  • It "won" the Razzie for Worst Picture (and 6 more Razzies).

Renowned film star Joan Crawford's abuse towards Christina, her adopted daughter, intensifies as her professional and romantic relationships turn sour.

How it earned its rating

  • CriticsBelow par

    50% on Rotten Tomatoes, 55 on Metacritic

  • AudiencesBelow par

    6.4 out of 10

  • AwardsWeak

    0 wins and 2 nominations from smaller awards and festivals. Plus: "Won" 7 Razzies, the "worst of the year" awards, including Worst Picture.

  • Box office & staying powerSolid

    $19 million worldwide on a $5 million budget; still draws a steady audience long after release

  • Buzz & cultural impactStrong

    About 292K people sought it out in the past year

Trailer

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Cast & crew

Directed by Frank Perry

  • Faye DunawayJoan Crawford
  • Diana ScarwidChristina Crawford
  • Steve ForrestGreg Savitt
  • Howard Da SilvaL.B. Mayer
  • Mara HobelChristina Crawford as a Child
  • Rutanya AldaCarol Ann
  • Harry GozAl Steele
  • Michael EdwardsTed Gelber
  • Jocelyn BrandoBarbara Bennett
  • Priscilla PointerMrs. Chadwick