The costumes used in the film production are suitable for the characters in the play, and are not appreciably different from ones that would be seen on Broadway. 3. Idea

William's The Glass Menagerie is a complex tale about relationships, social norms, gender roles, and psychological health. The playwright would have wanted audiences to think hard about each of these issues. Remarkably, the play's main themes are universal. Williams was an American, but the themes he writes about apply equally as well to any other culture. All cultures contend with gender roles and norms, and the overbearing mother is a common stereotype. Tom's masculinity is also called into question throughout the play.

4. Acting styles

John Malkovich emotes...

His role as Tom is ideal because of his ability to get angry in a realistic way. Although not as effusive as a Pacino-type actor, Malkovich is passionate and energetic in his approach. Both Joanne Woodward and Karen Allen have more subdued acting styles compared with John Malkovich. Joanne Woodward has a stoic, confident aura about her, making her ideal for the role of Amanda. Her regal air can almost be mistaken for arrogance, but her eyes speak volumes more than her lips do. Karen Allen also uses her eyes and her body language to her advantage as an actor, especially given the unique challenges of playing a role like that of Laura. Allen plays Laura well by using a powerful restraint in her approach.