Ellen Greene, the celebrated actress best known for her iconic portrayal of Audrey in the original Off-Broadway production of “Little Shop of Horrors,” has shared insights into her unexpected journey into the film adaptation of the musical. As the film approaches its 40th anniversary, Greene reflects on how her role in the beloved production came to be and the creative discussions that ultimately shaped the cinematic version.
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Greene initially had no intention of reprising her role in the 1986 film adaptation, as she was deeply engrossed in the stage production, which debuted in 1982. Speaking to PEOPLE, she disclosed, “I wasn’t attached. I didn’t fight for the film.” Her eventual involvement was largely facilitated by the collaboration between Howard Ashman, the lyricist, and Frank Oz, the director. Greene recalled that Ashman was keen on having her back for the film, which led her to advocate for Oz’s involvement as the director.
In a twist of fate, Greene had previously established a rapport with Frank Oz through her personal life, as she was dating Marty Robinson, a performer behind one of the Muppets. Their shared experiences on “Sesame Street” exposed her to Oz’s unique talents, which she felt would perfectly suit the adaptation. “When the film had no director at one point, I asked Howard if I could speak to Frank,” she explained. This conversation eventually led to a lunch meeting where Greene passionately argued for Oz to take the helm, citing his success with beloved characters like Grover.
Greene’s interpretation of Audrey in the film diverges in notable ways from her stage performance. She vividly recalls pitching to Oz the richness of the story, describing it as “a whimsical land with dark underpinnings” akin to a Faustian tale, cautioning against the perils of greed and power. “It’s about understanding that if you give in to those desires, you might not like who you become,” she added. Greene emphasised that Oz’s artistic vision was crucial in translating these complex themes to the screen, showcasing his ability to create captivating puppet performances without the aid of CGI.
Another significant distinction between the stage and film versions lies in the fate of Audrey herself. In the original play, her character meets a tragic end, being devoured by the man-eating plant, Audrey II. However, the film bestowed a happier conclusion upon her character. Greene expressed her pride for the film’s new ending, acknowledging the emotional complexities and the directorial artistry involved in the decision-making process. “I understood why the audience loved her until the end,” she remarked, highlighting her interpretative choices and the playful interactions crafted during her stage performances.
Reflecting on the death scene, Greene revealed that her character’s demise was approached differently in the film than the stage production. “In the play, I broke character to engender laughter during a heavy moment. In the film, the intimacy of the scene with Seymour was profoundly sad.” She conveyed pride in her performance, stating that while both endings serve their purpose, the film’s interpretation felt compelling and necessary for the storyline.
After initial screenings of the film, audiences reacted strongly to the original ending, prompting Greene and the creative team to reconsider it. “Frank, Howard, and everyone involved decided I needed to go back to London for two more weeks of re-shoots,” she explained. Greene expressed her willingness to return as she admired and respected the writers for their quick adaptation to create a new ending that would resonate with audiences.
As Greene looks back on her time with both the stage and film productions of “Little Shop of Horrors,” she reflects on her dual affection for both interpretations. “I hold love for them both like two children,” she revealed. Greene’s dedication and gratitude towards Ashman and Menken for their creative genius shine through as she recounts how their work allowed her to explore Audrey in varied yet profound ways.
Now, as “Little Shop of Horrors” is set for a special release in 4K UHD ahead of its 40th anniversary, Greene’s reflections on her esteemed role and the artistic collaboration that brought the film to life serve as a reminder of the magic that can unfold within the realm of theatre and cinema. The tale continues to enchant audiences, firmly establishing its place as a timeless classic.