Gigi (1958) Think "Pretty Woman"

Gigi - Leslie Caron

Gaston Lachaille - Louis Jourdan
Honoré Lachaille - Maurice Chevalier
Madame Alvarez - Hermione Gingold

As pure entertainment, this movie is a delight. The transformation of Gigi from an innocent, tomboyish school girl to elegant looking young lady is a wonder. Even though Leslie Caron was 31 when filming she indeed was convincingly impish in her portrayal of a young Gigi.

On the other hand, watching it now is difficult as I better understand exactly what the goal is. Having seen this movie many times it wasn't until recent years that I thoughtfully considered the story line.

After her mother "squandered" her life singing as an extra in operas, Gigi's grandmother (Hermione Gingold) is determined that Gigi not go down the same foolish artistic path.

Gigi is a young girl. Lovely yet playful who goes to her Aunt Alicia for lessons each week for lessons on becoming a lady ("Slowly Gigi, the racing season is over" her aunt admonishes upon her arrival for her lesson). She especially enjoys time with her good, and older, friend Gaston (Louis Jourdan who is only 11 years Caron's senior). Gaston portrays the bored socialite bachelor very well. It's only when he visits Gigi and her grandmother that he enjoys life whether just playing cards or traveling to the coast.

She doesn't stay young though and at the insistence of her Aunt Alicia, it is determined that Gigi be trained as a courtesan—for Gaston. An elegant and socially acceptable term for what is essentially an escort or prostitute.

Aunt Alicia and Grandmama are attempting this because they view it as Gigi's financial security. We're not privy to much of their history but Grandmama was at one time the courtesan for Gaston's uncle (Maurice Chevallier). That is, until he was tempted to marry her at which point he promptly left. Now that Grandmama ages alone, one wonders how she sees that as an advantage.

The problem with their plans, Gigi the fun-loving tomboy has other ideas. "Can't we just remain friends?" she begs Gaston. First of all, she's a young girl (when she's introduced to the viewer, Chevallier is singing "Thank God for Little Girls") who wants nothing to do with men, love and all that accompanies adulthood. Then too, her Aunt once taught her, "Wait for the first class jewels. Hold on to your ideals." A dichotomy obviously missed on Aunt Alicia.

After repeated rebellious outbursts, she calls for Gaston. "Gaston, I've been thinking. I would rather be miserable with you than without you." How many women have settled for a life of misery thinking, if not saying, the very same thing. A sad commentary for so many women in past eras. Hollywood has glammed up this story in a way that the viewer can forget what is actually happening.

The movie is very well done. The music is fun and light hearted. One of the songs encapsulates the aging mind so well. "You wore a gown of gold." "I was dressed in blue" "Ah yes, I remember it well." The songs are delightful and singalong easy.

A fact that I find lovely, and especially ironic for this movie, is that Louis Jourdan who convincingly plays the debonaire and often callous playboy is still married to his only wife after 66 years. Rare in today's America not to mention in Hollywood. And in France, it's becoming rare that couples marry at all.

The costumes in this movie were done by Cecil Beaton who was also the movie's scenery and production designer. Mr. Beaton also designed the gowns for My Fair Lady, another Pygmalion story. His touch is evident in the beautiful gowns that are showcased throughout the movie. At a couple of places it seemed that the scene was taken from My Fair Lady. Even though it was filmed after "Gigi," "My Fair Lady" was on stage from 1956 to 1962 so the scenes may have been been inspired by the stage version.

The book was written by Colette who recommended that Audrey Hepburn star just as she had on stage. Alan Lerner agreed but Miss Hepburn was unable. One is reminded of the hubbub when Miss Hepburn starred in "My Fair Lady" instead of Julie Andrews...but that's another review.

Don't let the ASPCA know, but in order to be included in scenes, the cat had to be heavily drugged. A point that my husband noted, "The cat looks dead!" For some reason it reacted violently to working with Miss Caron but Vincent Minnelli (director) insisted so the cat was "mellowed out."

Another bit of trivia: Lerner and Lowe collaborated on many musicals including "Gigi." However in this one, Alan Jay Lerner wrote the screen play as well.

Set and filmed in Paris, the movie is a fun watch as long as you don't take it too seriously.

Casablanca (1942)

Can a movie be yummy? This one is scrumptious! Oh the metaphors...so much to sink one's teeth into. Where do I begin?

Rick - Humphrey Bogart

Ilsa Lund - Ingrid Bergman

Victor Laszlo - Paul Henreid

Captain Renault - Claude Rains

Ugarte - Peter Lorre

Ferrari - Sidney Greenstreet

Major Strasser - Conrad Veidt

This movie is rich and intense. It started when the head of Story Department at Warners, Irene Lee, went to New York. After reading "Everybody Comes to Rick's," she sent it to Jack Warner, arriving at the California office for review the day after the Pearl Harbor attack. In turn, Warner bought the movie rights for $20,000, more than had previously been paid for an unproduced play.

As for the plot, the movie opens with the news announcement that two German couriers have been murdered. Couriers who were carrying documents signed by President DeGaulle. It quickly moves to the nightclub, or Rick refers to it: saloon. The camera scans the various tables and corners revealing subplots being played out, thus setting the story that is about to unfold. Our first hint of Rick is when he is asked to sign a receipt which is dated (watch carefully) 2 December 1941. The camera pulls back to show him playing chess. Trivia alert: that shot was intentional since he was actually playing long-distance chess with a friend.

The setting is French Morocco; unoccupied French Morocco that is. The German's have arrived setting up headquarters with the idea that it will not be unoccupied for long. Captain Renault - "I'm afraid you will find Casablanca a bit warm." Major Strasser - "Oh, we Germans must get use to all sorts of weather." Evidence of their desire for world domination.

Casablanca is filled with foreigners who are searching, longing for a way out. Looking for freedom from the oppression of the Nazis. No one is insignificant in this film. Each character has a story of their own which unfolds as the plot careens around the various situations. But to leave they must first obtain precious letters of transit also referred to as exit visas. Through the movement of the camera, the viewer is lurking amongst the plans and deals as the various ones as they plot their escape.

Rick obviously has a hard shell around his life and his heart, seemingly untouchable. A roll that Bogart always played well. On the other hand, knowing about the love story between him and Lauren Bacall, one knows better. In the movie, we eventually see the cracks in Rick as well.

Enter Ugarte (Lorre) asking Rick to hold letters of transit for him. Letters of transit which have been signed by President DeGaulle. "Yesterday they were just two German couriers. Today they are the honored dead." is Rick's cynical reply when Ugarte expresses mock sorrow for the dead couriers. The dialogue throughout contains clues to the life that European refugées are subject to. A revelation for the viewer that helps to set the mood of the movie.

Separately yet simultaneously the Germans, having just decended upon Casablanca, and Victor Laszlo (Paul Henreid) accompanied by the beautiful Ilsa Lund (Ingrid Bergman) arrive at Rick's Americain Café. A very tense situation. The Germans have been chasing Laszlo all throughout Europe as he strengthens the underground's fight against the Nazis. Now it appears that the chase could be coming to an end. Unbeknownst to everyone else including Victor, Rick and Ilsa have a history. Thus creating another tension. First it's the Nazis now it's a love triangle. The solution of both expertly played out.

The filming is amazing; each shot carefully choreographed or (videographed as it were). Full disclosure: I prefer B&W. The photography deepens moods and atmosphere by using the light and shadows.

The movie was released in late 1942. Americans had been deeply involved in the war for a year so they were acutely aware of what was happening in Europe. Also, several of the key players were actual refugées from Nazi-controlled Europe adding to the power of the story.

I continue to salivate over Miss Bergman's wardrobe. There is one outfit that I really dislike but the rest I lust for. I find myself drooling over admiring her outfit upon her entrance. That suit! That brooch! Actually, I'm captivated by the stunning brooch. Ilsa is even stylish as she perambulates through the bazaar. Hats? I have hat envy since I never seem to be able to pull off wearing them. The hat Ilsa wore at the bazaar was simple yet glamorous. And not many women can wear a fedora-styled hat the way Miss Bergman could. She added just the right touch of femininity to the one she wore in the final scene. Thankfully, the actual colors of her wardrobe are unknown. It would be a disappointment if the dresses weren't white. And it's not just the wardrobe but Miss Bergman wears them in a way that every woman wants to emulate her. She moves with grace and assurance.

When filming began, the script was not yet finished. In fact there were multiple final scenes shot while the end was worked out amongst the screen writers, director and producer. Did Rick end up with Ilsa? Did Victor? The endings had to be run past the censors as well as audiences.

There were many actors who were in line to be in this film. Rumored to be in the running for Rick were Ronald Reagan, Dennis Morgan, George Raft. However, Hal Wallis never considered anyone but Humphrey Bogart.

All throughout the film the music of "As Time Goes By" can be heard lilting through the background. Sometimes upbeat as flashbacks show better times, sometimes as a dirge when the seriousness of the situation was being showcased. Again, a subtle addition to creating the necessary mood.

One dramatic scene culminates in a clash between the French loyalists and the Nazi contingent. It is more poignant when you realize that many of the extras used in that scene are actually refugées. The scene is more powerful as you see the real tears, the result of past persecution. Some of the actors are actual German Jews who have escaped from Nazi German giving one a greater appreciation for their role.

Another tidbit: one of the writers, Joan Alison, creates a key character in this story-the letters of transit. While selling the story to Broadway as well as Hollywood, the hope was that no one would ask about them. Why? Because they were a total figment of her creative imagination. All throughout the process no one questioned the concept so they are included in Hollywood lore.

Correcting the myth: the often quoted statement "Play it again Sam" never occurred in the movie however, "Here's looking at you, kid." did.

The Quiet Man (1952) - a St. Patrick's Day twofer!

Sean Thornton - John Wayne

Mary Kate Danaher - Maureen O'Hara

Will Danaher - Victor McLaughlin

Michaleen Oge Flynn - Barry Fitzgerald

Father Lonergan - Ward Bond

A classic St. Patrick's Day movie. Sean Thornton returns to where he was born, Inishfree Ireland to forget his past as a boxer and to return to the roots of his mother. There he finds the fiery red head, Mary Kate. "Oh, that red hair is no lie!" Flynn tells Sean. Unfortunately, she is the younger sister of Will who's temper is hotter than hers.

Thornton ingratiates himself to the village but not to Will Danaher starting when he buys the cottage where he was born by outbidding Danaher. Danaher then refuses to give his sister to Thornton ("This is Ireland Sean, not America. Without her brother's consent, she couldn't and wouldn't marry you.") so the priest, the minister, and others cook up a plan that is sure to get his consent.

As soon as the wedding occurs, Danaher discovers the deception and refuses to give up Mary Kate's dowry. This causes a rift between Sean and Mary Kate before the end of the "quiet little celebration." "Until I've got my dowry safe about me, I'm no married woman. I'm just the servant I've always been. Without anything of my own." she informs her groom.

The dilemma is that Sean has sworn off fighting and the only way to save his marriage is to fight his brother-in-law. He is torn between saving the reputation of his wife and keeping his vow to himself not to fight.

When he determines to fight for his bride (in a culture he does not yet understand), he awakes to find that she has left for Dublin. He rushes to the train station to literally drag her back to return her to her brother. Along the way a crowd gathers to follow them. "Here's a nice stick to beat the little lady" says one very helpful woman. (Side note: the term "rule of thumb" refers to the size of stick that can be used to beat your wife. A pleasant thought.)

Trivia:

The movie is indeed a family affair. Barry Fitzgerald and Arthur Shields (the Protestant vicar Reverand Playfair) are brothers. John Ford's older brother Francis Ford, a well known silent film actor, plays an elderly man who is dying in one scene. In the race scene, the children seen sitting on the cart with Mary Kate are actually John Wayne's children including Patrick Wayne. James O'Hara (Father Paul) and Charles B. Fitzsimmons (Hugh Forbes) were Maureen O'Hara's younger brothers.

There is a great scene where Mary Kate and Father Lornegan are speaking "the Irish" - Gaelic. A pleasant, tuneful language. Another piece of trivia, because of her vibrant red hair, any movie that Maureen O'Hara was in was the one that got use of the Technicolor camera. This film is brilliant with the colorful, lovely scenery of Ireland.

"The Luck of the Irish" 1948

"Irish paths are whimsical, like the Irish character."

Stephen Fitzgerald - Tyrone Power
Nora - Anne Baxter
Horace/Leprechaun - Ceceil Kellaway
David C. Auger - Lee J. Cobb
Frances Auger - Jayne Meadows

Such a whimsical, fun movie. It is sad that this one is difficult to find. However, when you do, you will be enchanted.

The movie opens with scenes of the beautiful Irish countryside as American writer, Stephen Fitzgerald (Tyrone Power), travels to the coast of Ireland to make his way back to America. Right away he makes the acquaintance of a leprechaun by the "waterfall on the gentle bern" that the lovely Nora (Anne Baxter), "the old lady" of the inn says doesn't exist.

Thinking it's all a joke, Stephen captures the leprechaun and demands to see his gold. Still not believing the "story," He gives the gold back to the old man.

Meanwhile, Stephen goes back to New York to a plush job, working for a publisher (Cobb) who is vying for high political office. Stephen's job? To get him elected. His passion is real writing but real writing doesn't pay the bills.

Following him to New York is the grateful leprechaun who poses as his manservant so as to repay the favor. His desire is to "help" Stephen make the right decisions.

In a twist of Irish fate, Nora comes to NY to settle the estate of a deceased relative. In the city of 8 million people, Stephen "happens" to cross paths with her on the subway train. To confuse things, Stephen's publisher boss has a beautiful daughter, Florence (Meadows), who has set her sights on him while the manservant has his sights set on setting Stephen up with Nora.

"You are the type who wears no man's collar. That is why I am pleased to serve you." says Horace, but Stephen isn't so sure. Especially when he agrees to run Auger's campaign and marry "the tall lady" leading to the position of running the newspaper.

After he has written a campaign speech that is full of things that are contrary to what he believes, everything comes to a head. Does he stay with high-maintenance Florence and his high-powered position or does he return to a more simple life with Nora and writing. Sell his soul or save it? "I offered you gold. It's not my fault that you prefer a pebble." is all Horace can say.

The movie is full of adorable clichés and fun predicaments as Stephen's life is turned upside down. There is the raucous New York Irish wedding in a pub; the Irish police officer; and the Irish fireman and pugilist. Not to mention the Irish tongue! Fun times all around!

"Desire" (1936) Gary Cooper, Marlene Dietrich.

We were fortunate to be able to purchase this from a video store that was going out of business. Regrettably, we've not be able to find it at www.moviesunlimited.com which is where we purchase our movies.

This movie has so many things going for it that it's a pleasure to watch, watch, and watch again. The plot revolves around an American automobile engineer, Tom Bradley (Cooper), who is currently working in Paris but is being transferred back to Detroit. Before he goes home, he heads out for two weeks in Spain with dreams of lovely señoritas at a bullfight: "while I'm watching the bulls, she'll be watching me!"

At the same time, an unprecedented jewel robbery is underway. The glamorous thief: Madeleine de Beaupre (Dietrich). The complex details of the theft is enough to give anyone an ulcer but because of her beauty and poise, she successfully relieves the jeweler of his 2.2 millon franc necklace. Then the chase is on.

As she makes her escape to Spain, her path crosses Bradley's several times and their subtle comedic performances draw the viewer into the story with them. The caper takes us from Paris to the border between France and Spain, to a San Sebastion luxury hotel, to a Spanish villa. All the while, details of her life slowly unfold revealing someone more frail than first appears. While Tom is immediately infatuated, Madeleine uses the bumbling American in whatever way she can only to find that she is unable to shake him. The more she tries, the more her defenses begin to slip away.

Important to the story line is the full circle of falling from grace, repentance, forgiveness, redemption as well as the truth of consequences.

As a jewelry designer and a devotée of fashions of the 1930's and 1940's, this movie is a treat. Miss Garbo's glamour is undeniable. The lighting is another star in this movie adding greatly to the mood of the story. Much is lost today because of color. The deep shadows define the mood as well as the forms.

One of the issues I have with this movie is that I don't think there are ready-to-develop darkrooms in the hotels of Spain. I chalk that up to artistic license. With each viewing I wonder what the original audience thought about that little piece.

Other characters include:

Dr. Maurice Pauquet (The Nerve Doctor) - Alan Mowbray

Aristide Duvalle (The Jeweler) - Ernest Cossart

Prince Margoli (part of the thievery) - John Halliday

Aunt Olga (part of the thievery) - Ziffie Tilbury

Mr. Gibson (Mr. Cooper's boss) - William Frawley

No detail is overlooked. From the amazing rare Duesenberg Supercharger (only a handful were made and the first was bought by Gary Cooper; the second by Clark Gable) that Miss Dietrich drives to Spain, to the lovely styles that adorn her shape. Being partial to Art Deco, this is eye candy for me. The luxury depicted here is elegant, not ostentatious.

Another bit of trivia is that Miss Dietrich was dating John Gilbert just before beginning this movie. He read for, and won, the role of Prince Margoli. Unfortunately he had a massive heart attack in his dressing room just before filming began and was replaced by John Halliday. Thus, his comeback was not to be and he died of heart failure shortly after his replacement.

Beginnings

So, here I am...tip toeing into the blogosphere. I've often thought of blogging but decided that I had nothing to say that anyone would be interested in. Then came those words..."May I suggest you do a classic movie Blog."

Words that struck fear in my heart! Fear because of my inadequacy when it comes to writing. Get me into a conversation and I'm a master (once I start). But writing? Can I do it justice? Will it be boring? Help!

Well, this is the beginning. I don't know where this will lead. Will I fail? Will anyone find it valuable? I have no idea but here goes.

Some basic information. My goal is to entice you into the world of Classic Movies. What is a classic movie? Well, for the sake of this blog, anything that is pre 1960. I may occasionally stray into a later movie but not on a regular basis. My desire is to create the same appreciation in the reader for these gems that I have. I will never reveal endings, solutions or too much information. I hope to ignite a new appreciation for the amazing films of the past.

My favorite resources include Turner Classic Movies and www.moviesunlimited.com. There are other places that I've found movies by googling titles. Not always reliable so I stick to the tried and true.

That said, not all are gems but all that I view will have a place in this blog. You know that it is oft stated that "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder." That goes for art as well and movies/films are indeed an art to be beheld.

Included in the reviews will be basic plot, character development, lighting, sound, as well as history and behind-the-scenes tidbits that I am addicted to so appreciate! When I settle down to be enchanted by a movie, I want to know as much about the story of the movie as possible so first I do research. I have found this to enhance my viewing pleasure and my hope is that, through this blog, yours will be enhanced as well.