I've seen, or tried to watch (couldn't get through the 1981 TV version) both versions of this story. The problem was that the screenwriters in both instances modernized the story, and it didn't work either time. I'd still love to see this novel brought to the screen as it was written. It was, after all, one of the best-selling books of all time, and they did it for Gone With the Wind. Most of its believability was that it took place in the 1940s, 50s, and 60s. I picture a four-hour miniseries with authentic period settings and women who can convincingly play from their 20s to their late 30s. (The casting of the original three actresses was one about the only thing I thought was perfect, even if Sharon Tate wasn't as well endowed as her character was described.) With the entertainment world constantly recycling old stuff I think there's still a chance for somebody to get it right; it deserves to be told.
Review of Valley of the Dolls
