User reviews

Hard to believe that Maureen Stapleton was only 50 when she made this movie. Charles Durning was two years older. Yet they're portrayed as a couple of frumpy and hopeless old fogies--especially her--grabbing for some last romance before they reach the graveyard. I felt also that even though most of these characters appeared to be Jewish, their ethnicity was played down too much--perhaps to appeal to a general television audience. Regardless, the story realistically portrays a woman rescued at the last moment from her family and friends' expectations. Her children want her to be a sexless grandmother-cum-babysitter living in their spare bedroom, and her sister and friends think she should be a proper widow without an emotional life. Naturally they're disappointed when she decides to live the rest of her life as a free woman who still has desires and dreams. (Durning, on the other hand, was more of a cipher. He confides that he has a wife, but nothing more is said about her. Is she an invalid? Are they living apart?) The ending was a little abrupt, but I liked the film's message that we're never too old for romance. Who would make this movie today? More important, who would go see it? Well, how about all those aging boomers who are wondering about the many loves they found, lost, or never explored in the first place when they were younger.

Maureen Stapleton's husband dies. Her friends start moving halfway around the world to California. One day, the waitress at the coffee shop suggests she join her for a night of ballroom dancing at the Stardust Ballroom. At first, Miss Stapleton has a horrid time; the man her friend fixes her up with is a fancy-schmancy dancer who dances around her. Somehow, she dances with Charles Durning and romance blooms. So do problems.

This award-winning TV movie was clearly aimed at the older demographics. Miss Stapleton was a triple-crown winner (Tony, Oscar, and Emmy for this movie), almost invariably cast in supporting roles; likewise, Durning was no one's idea of a matinee idol. Their aging, ordinary appearances is a primary point in this show.

It's a musical, although most of the numbers are recitatives, expounding on their thoughts. Although this movie is a minor affair, its themes and performances lift it out of the ordinary.

The reasons I bought this DVD are because I'd rembered this film as being great fun (having seen it 15+ yrs ago on TV), Maureen Stapleton is a top drawer actress and I'm nearly as sentimental as the film.

But there is so much more. It's done quite creatively. The five or so bits where the two main characters sing their thoughts to themselves worked. Normally that would be difficult to pull off & Hollywood would flub it up. Part of the reason why I enjoyed it (or found it acceptable, which I normally wouldn't) is because it's quite apparent that they're from a generation raised to be selective about the thoughts they share, in stark contrast to today's society. It's also shot in a rather different manner, or have I forgotten how films of the 70s were photographed?

Queen of the Stardust Ballroom raises the moral bar by ignoring unwarranted judgements and dealing with more important matters.

And Maureen Stapleton... she's one class act and a brilliant actress.

The very fact that I remembered the exact title of this made for TV film after 36 years, says it all for me.

It was the first time I had ever seen Charles Durning or Maureen Stapleton as actors in any production, whether movie or television.

Their acting was superb -- understated and classy.

I was in my 20's when I saw this film and only now am I of a certain age where I can truly appreciate the feelings and emotions represented by these actors -- most of all it is Maureen Stapleton that made an impact on me.

A week ago, Maureen Stapleton died and right away, I said, "Queen of the Stardust Ballroom" -- such a good, warm thought to have upon hearing of someone's passing.

I would recommend this film to anyone!

This is a true tear-jerker. The songs are beautifully written and the performances are finely honed by all concerned. The only problem is that you may have trouble finding it, because it's not shown on television very often. But what a find it is! Have a box of Kleenex handy; you'll need it.

I haven't seen this film in over 20 years and yet I still recall scenes from it quite vividly. The performances by both Stapleton (who I was researching now when I saw this film in a list of her credits) and Durning are both wonderful. The characters seemed very "real"...even more so when the film came out, as back then middle aged+ characters were *very rare* as romantic leads in a movie. And it's also quite touching. I recall crying quite a bit near the end on the 3 occasions I saw this movie on TV years ago. Bravo to Stapleton and Durning for this one!

The pacing is overly rapid in certain places, Bea's sister and daughter are painted with a cartoonish brush, but the film manages to be genuinely moving and poignant throughout.

We are never asked to condone every change Bea makes; only to understand. Maureen Stapleton's human, subtly-keyed performance is the perfect centerpiece. Charles Durning is also wonderful in a role many actors would coast through. Once you see him here you'll never think of him in quite the same way again. These characters are so real, so everyday, that we can feel their joy and sorrow in ways cardboard types can't transmit.

The singing is jarring at first, but their shaky voices add to the realistic undertone of the fantasy.

Bea's unapologetic stance in her relationship with Al typifies the 70's and the 70's willingness to shake off conventions; I'm not sure if this tv-film would be made today with the same viewpoint.

I loved the atmosphere of the Stardust Ballroom, the different relationships and the nostalgia for days gone by. Bea comes alive in a room where most are trying to relive their past glories.

Flawless it may not be, but if you want to believe in love, in having a second chance at life no matter what your age is, this is the film to see.

True to life. Durning and Stapleton, the chemistry is perfect. Durning and Stapleton are phenomenal. A story for our times. Such comments are more than adequate for this fine story.

Bea Asher is widowed at middle age. She sings of her loneliness and the deprivation brought about by her husband's passing.Bea is about to settle down to a grim widowhood, when a waitress, in a restaurant, tells her that you start living once your husband has died.

Though this statement is shocking, Bea goes with the woman to the Stardust Ballroom, a carefree lounge where couples dance to their pleasure. While there, Bea meets postman Al Green and the two are a match made up in heaven. Bea dances up a storm, changes that gray hair to bright red and becomes a live-wire not quite almost as Stapleton depicted in Woody Allen's "Interiors." Life has more meaning now, despite the anger conveyed by her pristine daughter and sister, Helen, shown in a memorable scene by Charlotte Rae.

The ending may be considered a downer but the author really had nowhere else to go. Available on DVD, see this film. It will warm your heart and get those shoes out for some fine dancing!

Maureen Stapleton gives a fine performance in this simple and straightforward story of an older woman trying to get on with her life after her husband dies.

Stapleton's performance aside, the film has the look and feel of a typical 1970's made-for-TV movie of the week. In addition to period costumes and props, the visuals are very dark. And the background music is annoyingly nondescript. Further, I did not care for the plot device wherein Stapleton's character suddenly bursts into non-melodic song, at odd moments. It seemed unnatural and intrusive.

A big part of the plot takes place at the ballroom. Here, the filmmaker could have included well-known songs from the big band era, songs that viewers could identify with. But, for whatever reason, the filmmaker passed up this opportunity, and chose instead more nondescript music that quickly becomes tiresome.

Although this film is not bad, it was a disappointment to me. But other viewers may find interest in it, especially if they're looking for a low-key, sentimental story, or a film with a fine performance from Maureen Stapleton.

This was my grandmother's favorite movie and when she passed away two years ago, I was determined to find it and watch it. I was able to locate a copy and overall was very happy to have found it. One thing that was a bit disappointing is that Bea Arthur sings the song 50% on her one woman show CD and speaks of the movie (another reason I wanted to see it), my copy did not contain the song. I can very easily understand why this was one my grandmother's favorite movies, and I have watched it on her birthday the past two years. Both Maureen Stapleton and Charles Durning were fantastic as elderly, single love interests and for a TV movie made in the 1970's it was pretty darn good!

Maureen Stapleton plays a middle-aged widow in the Bronx who gets invited out for an evening with the girls to a local ballroom for elderly hoofers; there, she meets portly, starry-eyed Charles Durning, whose adoration makes her feel good about herself for the first time since her husband was alive. Acclaimed TV-movie approaches some interesting subjects (a sister's jealousy, an overprotective daughter's anger, a romance blooming in the autumn of a woman's years), and yet the plastic coating over this production is so thick that little of it rings true. The ballroom itself, filled to capacity with wily men eager to get out there and strut there stuff, may be a metaphor for the lives of its graying dancers--Last Chance For Happiness--but the collection of colorful characters Stapleton meets there are a romanticized group. Writer Jerome Kass even throws in the gambit of sung lyrics used as innermost thoughts, when what his teleplay really needs is some casual, natural interaction (there's really only one sequence which achieves this, a scene between Stapleton and son Michael Brandon doing the dishes). Although the people are phonied-up, the performances are generally likable, particularly Durning's. But who can take that ending seriously? Not after 90 minutes of sonnets, soliloquies and stardust!

..............NOW WHY WOULD a burly, blue collar and rather gruff retired ex copper like you be reviewing some picture like this? It has everyday type characters that are put through their paces against what surely would be considered to be some very unglamorous scenario in ordinary, working class settings.

WELL THE ANSWER that we must give to Schultz and all the rest of you doubters is a resounding, No! This is far more complex a story than that and cannot be pigeon holed so easily. In fact if one would give it another (or even first) viewing then just what we mean would become apparent.

WE FOUND THIS to be a very compelling story, even at the time of its premier telecast over forty years ago. (My God, Schultz, where has the time gone!) No doubt the reason is that it is well mounted with great scenes, intelligently written and is not a bit pretentious. The story is brought to life by a fine cast which is headed up by Miss Maureen Stapleton (Award Winner) and Mr. Charles Durning.

IT THE INCLUSION of the latter which is what proved to be a surprise in the cast, essentially stealing the show. Although he had perhaps been under-appreciated for his acting skills, he had established the reputation of being the most dependable of supporting players in so many character acting parts.

WITH THIS FILM, a "Made for TV" movie, Charles put himself onto yet another level in his public persona. His skills in bringing off his characterization of Al Green, Letter Carrier, U.S. Postal Department was bolstered by and possibly eclipsed by his skills as a ballroom dancer. Few if any knew that the rather stout physique of his concealed the grace and skills that he had honed up in previous years while working as a dance instructor.

ONCE AGAIN, WE must repeat and cannot overemphasize the wide appeal that this story has. It surely could have been made as a theatrical film; but alas, was relegated to the "lesser" venue of the small screen in our living rooms.

WELL AS EVEN Schultz and myself have come to realize, this was Oscar's loss and Emmy's windfall.

I discovered The Queen of the Stardust Ballroom a few years ago when a friend recommended it. I found print online which was not very good but I still loved what I saw

Recently I bought the Blu Ray of the film and saw a good print with clear sound and it bowled me over. This has to be one of the warmest and nicest feel good films ever made. The fact that its between two "regular" middle aged people makes it that much more special and relatable

The storyline is relatively simple but its the main actors that elevate the film above the ordinary

Maureen Stapleton transitions from grief to determination to a woman in love with poise and grace. She's a wonderful actress and nothing less would have been expected

For me the surprise was Charles Durning. We have known him from film after film to be a tough talking actor. Who knew he had this soft romantic side to him. From the time he steps in its as if the film is completely transformed. He is simply outstanding as the charming Shakespeare quoting mailman who can sing (not too badly) and dance. I definitely did not expect to see his portly frame glide so effortlessly and gracefully across the dance floor. Turns out he was a dance instructor for many years before he became an actor. I wonder why no other film maker made use of this talent again

I have rewatched the film several times over and it has left me smiling everytime. This is such a believable little story, even the sometimes off-key singing by the actors makes it that much more real and easy to engage with

I am surprised this film isn't better known than it is and why it doesn't count as a classic. Though it was nominated for a bunch of awards and even won a few,, it definitely needs more recognition than that.

the story is wonderful, dancing superb and the acting excellent. i first saw this 40 years ago; i was 30 and have seen it many times over all those years. why has this not been put on a DVD? it truly is a masterpiece.

i wonder if anyone is imaginative enough to see that this gets another release at a movie house or community centers including senior centers. i viewed it on you tube this time. try it, you will like it!

Anyone who doesn't think a short, fat man can be sexy should see this movie. The story, a perfect pairing of Maureen Stapleton and Charles Durning absolutely draws you in. The ballroom scenes, quirky characters and a totally charming love story. The one drawback is an abrupt, senseless ending. So skip the ending and enjoy Charles Durning's seductive dancing with Maureen. If you are like me you will want to learn more about his amazing life, humble beginnings, World War II hero, ending with a prolific mid life movie career.

This is a great movie. Loved the music, the actors. And the dancing. If watching it as a teen you might not understand or appreciate the movie. It is a great movie, the actors are not bikini models nor muscle men. Just average joes and Jane. So you can identify with them.

I love old movies, whether it is Citizen Kane, Gone With The Wind or They Shoot Horses. Don't They? Who doesn't? In time however, it becomes increasingly difficult to find something that we can truly add on our list as unforgettable, even life-changing, somehow. Much to my big surprise, even movie-buffs like me can occasionally stumble upon an instant heretofore unknown favorite that has been waiting for the exact right moment to be discovered. The Queen Of The Stardust Ballroom is my all-time favorite at this time in my life. Some of the scenes of this movie were so magic that I had to capture them with VLC player so I would be able to play them again in the future, in case there would be a time when I would believe that seeing this masterpiece for the first time, I was dreaming as if the Queen of The Stardust Ballroom was never made.

Some say when we watch ghosts on the silver screen, long gone in real life, we experience fleeting emotions. This felt especially true to me as I saw it just in 2019, years after both heroes in this movie have passed away. But it was just the right time. Two decades before and I would have dismissed it as sentimental. Good movies are all about story, acting and chemistry. These all come magically together in The Queen Of The Stardust Ballroom. World War II hero Charles Durning shows his wonderful talent as the charismatic archetypal friendly uncle type that made him the king of character actors in the decades to come. His dancing and singing is outstanding and more importantly, very surprising to see of a guy of his build somehow. He truly sweeps the dance-hall as if he doesn't touch the floor and when Maureen Stapleton is flying with him, so are we with them. This is how reviewer redryan64 described it much better than I can: "Few if any knew that the rather stout physique of his concealed the grace and skills that he had honed up in previous years while working as a dance instructor."

To me, this role gives him a shot at eternity - he might not have had the amazing range of the likes of Robert de Niro and so on, but here he shines unsurpassed as himself: mister old fashioned charming. Maureen Stapleton also does a wonderful job playing the widow who is mourning and lost at first, playing hard to get, but how she (and we with her!) discovers how life always has something worthwhile to offer!

The ballroom scenes that blend their lives together in the Stardust Ballroom transport you to a time long gone, with red velvet, wonderful big band music and romance, graced by a knock-out cameo by vocalist Martha Tilton.

I wished this movie would have lasted 10 hours but I had to say goodbye to these characters after around 90 minutes. The ending, well it is best not give it away, but it was fitting and beautiful to know once more that it is never too late for romance. All I can say it is just a knock-out underrated movie that I hope will become a famous classic one day.