Diane Mahree
Actor
About Diane Mahree
Diane Mahree was an American actress who appeared in only one known film, the notorious 1966 cult classic 'Manos: The Hands of Fate.' She portrayed Margaret, the mother character who, along with her family, becomes trapped at the remote lodge of the sinister Master and his servant Torgo. Like most of the cast, Mahree was a local actor from the El Paso, Texas area who was recruited for the low-budget production by first-time director Harold P. Warren. Her performance in the film has become part of cinema history due to the movie's legendary status as one of the worst films ever made, though it has since developed a devoted cult following. After 'Manos,' there are no records of Mahree appearing in any other film or television projects, suggesting she may have been a local talent rather than a professional actress pursuing a full-time career in entertainment.
The Craft
On Screen
Based on her single performance in 'Manos,' Mahree demonstrated a straightforward, naturalistic acting approach typical of local talent in regional productions. Her portrayal of a concerned mother was earnest and sincere, lacking the polish of professional Hollywood actors but contributing to the film's unique charm.
Milestones
- Starred as Margaret in 'Manos: The Hands of Fate' (1966)
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Diane Mahree's legacy is intrinsically tied to the cultural phenomenon that 'Manos: The Hands of Fate' became. Though her career consisted of only this single film, her performance as Margaret has been seen by millions through the film's regular television airings, particularly on Mystery Science Theater 3000, which introduced the movie to a new generation. Her portrayal represents the earnest attempts of local actors to create serious drama, which unintentionally contributed to the film's enduring appeal as a cult classic.
Lasting Legacy
Diane Mahree's legacy exists primarily through her role in what has been called one of the worst films ever made, yet also one of the most beloved cult classics. Her performance as the concerned mother Margaret has become an indelible part of midnight movie history, representing the authentic, unpolished quality that makes 'Manos' so memorable to its fans.
Who They Inspired
While not influential in the traditional sense due to her limited filmography, Mahree's work in 'Manos' has contributed to the appreciation of 'so bad it's good' cinema and has inspired countless fans and filmmakers who find value in earnest but technically flawed filmmaking.
Off Screen
Very little is known about Diane Mahree's personal life outside of her single film appearance. Like many of the cast members of 'Manos: The Hands of Fate,' she was likely a resident of the El Paso, Texas area who participated in the film as a local opportunity rather than pursuing a professional acting career.
Did You Know?
- Diane Mahree's only film credit is 'Manos: The Hands of Fate' (1966)
- She was one of several local actors from El Paso, Texas recruited for the film
- Her character Margaret is the mother in the family that encounters the Master and Torgo
- Like most of the cast, she was paid for her work in the film but never received residuals
- The film was shot in just a few days with a budget of approximately $19,000
- Her performance gained renewed attention when the film was featured on Mystery Science Theater 3000 in 1993
- The character she played was central to the film's plot as the protective mother trying to save her family
In Their Own Words
I'm getting worried, Michael. I'm getting very worried. We've been driving for hours and we're no place.
as Margaret in 'Manos: The Hands of Fate')
Michael, please! Let's just get out of here! Please!
as Margaret in 'Manos: The Hands of Fate')
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Diane Mahree?
Diane Mahree was an American actress known exclusively for her role as Margaret in the 1966 cult film 'Manos: The Hands of Fate.' She was a local actor from the El Paso, Texas area who appeared in only this one film before disappearing from the entertainment industry.
What films is Diane Mahree best known for?
Diane Mahree is known for only one film: 'Manos: The Hands of Fate' (1966), where she played Margaret, the mother character. This notorious film has since become a cult classic despite being considered one of the worst movies ever made.
When was Diane Mahree born and when did she die?
Unfortunately, there are no available records of Diane Mahree's birth or death dates. Like many of the local actors who appeared in 'Manos: The Hands of Fate,' her personal details remain largely undocumented in film history.
What awards did Diane Mahree win?
Diane Mahree did not receive any awards or nominations for her work in 'Manos: The Hands of Fate.' The film itself was not critically acclaimed during its initial release, though it has since gained recognition as a significant cult classic.
What was Diane Mahree's acting style?
Based on her single performance, Diane Mahree demonstrated a naturalistic, straightforward acting style typical of local talent in regional productions. Her portrayal of a concerned mother was earnest and sincere, lacking the polish of professional Hollywood actors but contributing authentically to the film's unique character.
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Films
1 film
