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| Lubitsch delivers a groundbreaking film. |
Directed by Ernst Lubitsch
Produced by Ernst Lubitsch
Written by Ernest Vajda and Guy Bolton (from the The Prince Consort)
Starring Maurice Chevalier, Jeanette MacDonald and Eugene Pallette
Plot Summary: A French count weds a queen, but marital problems quickly threaten to ruin their union and the future of her majesty’s empire.
Significance: Considered the first attempt at a modern Hollywood musical, Lubitsch’s “talkie” debut was nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director and Best Actor. It was also named one of the year’s ten best films by the National Board of Review.
Thoughts: This was Lubitsch’s first time directing Chevalier and MacDonald (in her film debut) together, and it’s a great sign of things to come for the pair, who would go on to co-star in films like Love Me Tonight and One Hour with You. While they would be better later, they do have good chemistry in this early film as well. Of course, the Lubitsch touch is on full display here, featuring a series of original songs throughout this charming romantic comedy. It’s all light and frothy, as goes with most of Lubitsch’s work, but the film is an enjoyable, essential piece from the beginnings of movie musicals. If you’re exploring the 1920s, this is a nice place to start.
Rating: B
This is the fourth film in my 2016 Blind Spot Series, as first started by Ryan McNeil.
Surprised I had not heard of this one before since it got all those oscar noms and as you say is considered the first modern Hollywood musical. Lubitsch’s other work seems to get more attention these days. I need to explore the 1920s :)
ReplyDeleteI also need to explore more from the 1920s, but this had been on my radar for a while, since it was nominated at the Oscars. ;)
DeleteNice review! I've never heard of this one, but I think watching the first modern musical might be interesting.
ReplyDeleteThanks! It's actually pretty solid in its execution. I would've thought it'd be more clunky.
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