Cast:
Director:
Mike Nichols
Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (1966): Spoiler-Free Review
Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? is Mike Nichols’s 1966 drama about a married couple and their guests during one long night. It is bitter, funny and intense.
The Premise
After a faculty party, the professor George (Richard Burton) and his wife Martha (Elizabeth Taylor) invite a young couple home for drinks. The guests are Nick (George Segal) and Honey (Sandy Dennis). The alcohol flows, and the hosts turn their sharp words on each other and on their guests. Secrets come out as the night goes on.
Why It Works
- Elizabeth Taylor won the Oscar for Best Actress, and Sandy Dennis won for Best Supporting Actress.
- The film keeps the stage-play structure and relies on strong, fierce dialogue.
At a Glance
- Director: Mike Nichols
- Cast: Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, George Segal, Sandy Dennis
- Source: Edward Albee’s play
- Awards: Five Oscars from thirteen nominations
Verdict
A powerful, unsparing drama about a marriage. Its final scene hits hard.
- Who should watch: Fans of acting showcases and stage dramas.
- Spoilers: none. We never reveal the twist in this review.
Frequently Asked Questions About:
"Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?"
Is Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? based on a play?
Yes. Edward Albee wrote the 1962 play.
Was it Mike Nichols's first film?
Yes. It was his directing debut.
Did the film win Oscars?
Yes. It won five, including Best Actress for Elizabeth Taylor.
Last updated: November, 2026
– Film details and cast information checked.
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