La reginetta del Polvere di stelle

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!

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.

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 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.

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!