1h 55min | Comedy, Musical, Romance | 15 May 1958 | Color, WS
Director: Vincente Minnelli
Stars: Leslie Caron, Maurice Chevalier, Louis Jourdan, Hermione Gingold, Isabel Jeans.
Charles Walters ... stager: "The Night They Invented Champagne" number (uncredited)
Alex Romero ... assistant choreographer (uncredited)
I've always disliked this film. I don't like the idea of these women training their descendant to become a courtesan. All of what they show us relates only to the social niceties, not the boudoir. But it offends me that they are preparing her for such a life, even though it involves the high life, jewels and champagne.
MC (b. 1888) is charming as usual; his smile still lights up the screen. He looks every minute of his age. He didn't in the early 30's when I love him best.
HG is always fun, and well-matched with MC in their number together.
IJ is wonderful as the great aunt who tries to instruct LC.
LC (b. 31) is terrific as the young girl who blossoms into the young woman. LJ is excellent as the bored playboy who craves a real relationship instead of his decadent lifestyle, although I'm not convinced that he won't get bored with that too.
The production is beautiful, as you would expect from a Minnelli musical, especially one where he was able to film some of it in France.
12 songs in the Soundtrack, many now famous.
The film won 9 Oscars, including Best Picture, but the competition of the other 4 nominees was not strong.
But I don't like it.
MGM, dir. Minnelli; 7-
