Daisy Miller (1974)
Peter Bogdanovich's elegant adaptation of Henry James's novella, starring Cybill Shepherd as a free-spirited American girl defying European society's rigid expectations.
Daisy Miller - Movie Information
- Original Title: Daisy Miller
- Release Year: 1974
- Directed by: Peter Bogdanovich
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Comedy, Drama, Romance
- Age Rating (US): G
- Runtime: 1h 31m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: Italian, French, English
- Release Date (Theatrical): May 22, 1974 (United States - G), August 26, 1976 (Spain)
- Production Companies: Copa del Oro, The Directors Company, Paramount Pictures
- Production Countries: United States of America
Daisy Miller - Plot
Despite mixed emotions, Frederick Winterbourne tries to figure out the bright and bubbly Daisy Miller, only to be helped and hindered by false judgments from their fellow friends.
Daisy Miller - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see Cybill Shepherd bring Daisy's irrepressible spirit to life:
She did as she pleased.
Where to Watch Daisy Miller
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Daisy Miller - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Peter Bogdanovich
Main Cast
- Cybill Shepherd
- Barry Brown
- Cloris Leachman
- Duilio Del Prete
- Mildred Natwick
- Eileen Brennan
- James McMurtry
- Nicholas Jones
- George Morfogen
- Richard Dunne
Writers
- Frederic Raphael
Producers
- Peter Bogdanovich
Daisy Miller - FAQs
What is Daisy Miller (1974) about?
Daisy Miller follows a vivacious, unconventional young American woman traveling through Europe in the 19th century. Frederick Winterbourne is captivated by her charm but struggles to reconcile his feelings with the rigid social judgments of their expatriate circle. It's a story about freedom, conformity, and the cost of being yourself.
Does Daisy Miller have a tragic ending?
Yes, the film ends on a somber note. Daisy contracts Roman fever (malaria) after an ill-advised late-night visit to the Colosseum with Giovanelli, and she dies shortly after. Winterbourne is left to reflect on how harshly he judged her, realizing too late that she was entirely innocent.
Where can you stream or watch Daisy Miller?
You can watch Daisy Miller on Kanopy for free with a library card. It's also available to rent or buy on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. Kanopy is the easiest no-cost option if your local library supports it.
Is Daisy Miller based on a true story or book?
Daisy Miller is based on Henry James's celebrated 1878 novella of the same name. James drew on his observations of American tourists in Europe, though Daisy herself is a fictional character. Screenwriter Frederic Raphael adapted the story faithfully, preserving its themes of class, innocence, and social hypocrisy.
Who stars in Daisy Miller (1974)?
Cybill Shepherd leads the cast as the spirited Daisy Miller, with Barry Brown as the conflicted Frederick Winterbourne. The supporting cast includes Cloris Leachman, Mildred Natwick, Eileen Brennan, and Duilio Del Prete. Shepherd's performance remains the film's most talked-about element.
Why was Daisy Miller controversial upon release?
The film divided critics largely because of Cybill Shepherd's casting. Many felt her performance was too flat or modern for the period role, while others saw it as perfectly capturing Daisy's guileless, unaffected nature. The debate over her portrayal overshadowed the film's genuine craft and visual elegance.
Who directed Daisy Miller and what is his style?
Peter Bogdanovich directed Daisy Miller, fresh off major successes like The Last Picture Show and Paper Moon. Known for his deep love of classical Hollywood cinema, Bogdanovich brings a restrained, painterly quality to the film, letting the European locations and period detail speak with quiet authority.
What is the age rating for Daisy Miller?
Daisy Miller is rated G, making it suitable for all audiences. Despite the gentle rating, the film deals with mature themes of social exclusion, romantic ambiguity, and tragedy, so it's best appreciated by older teens and adults who can engage with its nuanced, literary storytelling.
More About Daisy Miller
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