Hollywood screen queens Davis and Crawford play former child-star sisters Blanche and Jane Hudson, now living together in middle age. One is disabled, the other a grotesque alcoholic with a cruel streak.

Director Aldrich transforms this lurid Gothic horror into an insanely enjoyable romp, with the two stars channelling their real-life rivalry to spine-tingling effect.

Too Much: Melodrama on film is a UK-wide season, supported by BFI National Lottery funding, celebrating the vivid visual language, heightened dramatics and emotional pathos at the heart of film melodrama.