“Feud: Bette and Joan” (2017) is a critically acclaimed television series developed by Ryan Murphy. The show, ordered by the FX network, is an anthology drama that delves into the infamous rivalry between two Hollywood legends, Bette Davis and Joan Crawford. The series consists of 8 episodes and first premiered on March 5, 2017. Through its sharp storytelling and stellar performances, “Feud” explores the complexities of fame, rivalry, and personal struggles behind the glamour of Hollywood’s golden age.

The series centers around the highly publicized feud between Bette Davis and Joan Crawford during the making of the 1962 film What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? The film, which became a cult classic, was marred by the rivalry and bitterness between the two lead actresses. “Feud: Bette and Joan” takes the audience through their professional and personal conflicts, offering a behind-the-scenes look at their lives both on and off the screen. The show highlights how the actresses’ rivalry grew from competitive ambition to a full-blown war fueled by envy, jealousy, and insecurities.

The show boasts exceptional performances from its lead actresses. Jessica Lange portrays Joan Crawford, while Susan Sarandon plays Bette Davis. Both actresses deliver powerhouse performances, capturing the essence of these larger-than-life personalities with incredible depth. Sarandon’s portrayal of Bette Davis shows her as a woman fiercely fighting for relevance in a changing industry, while Lange’s Joan Crawford exudes vulnerability beneath her icy persona. Their chemistry on screen is electric, making their rivalry both captivating and tragic. The supporting cast, including Catherine Zeta-Jones and Alfred Molina, also contributes significantly to the richness of the story.

“Feud: Bette and Joan” tackles themes of aging, sexism, ambition, and the toxic nature of celebrity culture. The series paints a vivid portrait of the struggle women face in an industry that often reduces them to their looks and youth. Through its meticulously designed sets and costumes, the series visually transports viewers to the golden age of Hollywood, while also emphasizing the isolation and inner turmoil of its central characters. The show’s cinematography is exquisite, using vibrant colors and period-appropriate details to evoke the glamour of the era while subtly highlighting the underlying darkness of the story.

“Feud: Bette and Joan” is a captivating and richly detailed series that provides an engaging exploration of one of Hollywood’s most infamous rivalries. With stellar performances by Jessica Lange and Susan Sarandon, a compelling storyline, and beautiful cinematography, the show is a must-watch for fans of drama, history, and classic cinema. Ryan Murphy’s direction and storytelling bring a unique depth to the lives of these iconic actresses, making “Feud” a fascinating and unforgettable portrayal of fame, rivalry, and the complex relationships that define Hollywood’s golden era.