Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, is a 1953 musical comedy, staring Marilyn Monroe and Jane Russell. It follows Lorelei Lee played by Monroe, a beautiful but seemingly ditzy showgirl, and her best friend Dorothy Shaw played Russell, a more practical singer as they set sail on a cruise to Europe. Lorelei determined to land a wealthy husband and Dorothy seeking true love, embark on a journey filled with mishaps and romantic entanglements, all under the watchful eye of a private investigator hired by Lorelei's fiancé's suspicious father.
The plot was easy to follow and had a good twist at the end. Although unrealistic at times, it kept me engaged throughout. One of the highlights was in the costumes. They were timeless, bursting with color and glamour. The musical numbers also helped to add to the film's playful and lighthearted atmosphere.
Monroe delivered a captivating performance, embodying the iconic "dumb blonde" persona she would become known for. While her breathy, baby voice did start to annoy me after a while, her undeniable charisma and comedic timing still managed to shine through. I also appreciated that the film provided a subtle arc for her character, hinting at a deeper intelligence beneath the surface. For me the real star was Jane Russell. She was a force to be reckoned with as Dorothy. She was confident, funny, and possessed a clear sense of self, offering a refreshing counterpoint to Lorelei's naiveté. Their contrasting personalities helped to create a truly dynamic comedic duo. My only issue with the casting was the lack of racial diversity, which is an even more glaring issue by today's standards. Additionally, the portrayal of women, particularly Monroe's character, reinforced certain stereotypes that have been played out in today's lens.
Despite these shortcomings, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes remains an entertaining film. It's a charming snapshot of a bygone era, filled with humor, wit, and undeniable star power. For fans of classic musicals or of Monroe and Russell, this film is a delightful, though slightly flawed, diamond.
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