Ziegfeld [Blu-Ray]

The 1936 Best Picture Oscar® winner, "The Great Ziegfeld," is every bit as extravagant as its subject: the theatrical empresario, Florence Ziegfeld, Jr. As Newsweek stated, "it carries on his tradition of superlatives: the most expensive actors, the best dancers, the most beautiful girls..." William Powell delivers one of his most acclaimed performances as the legendary Ziegfeld, with other stars from the MGM constellation joining him, including Myrna Loy (Powell's partner in The Thin Man series), Luise Rainer (the portrayal that won her the first of two consecutive Oscars®), The Wizard of Oz's Frank Morgan and Ray Bolger, and the legendary Ziegfeld star, Fannie Brice, in a rare screen appearance (whose life story would later become the stage and movie hit Funny Girl).

Of course, no Ziegfeld production would be complete without a parade of tunes (more than 20!), Showgirls (more than 300!), and dazzling set pieces. The most spectacular of all is the massive "wedding cake" sequence, set to Irving Berlin's "A Pretty Girl is Like a Melody." Interestingly, no applause was added to the soundtrack of this scene, as live audiences provided plenty of their own, and continue to do so even today.

The film's extravagance is a fitting tribute to its subject, the legendary Ziegfeld, whose productions were known for their grandeur and opulence. The ensemble cast delivers outstanding performances, with William Powell's portrayal of Ziegfeld being particularly acclaimed. The musical numbers and elaborate set pieces are a feast for the senses, transporting the audience to the world of high-class entertainment that Ziegfeld so masterfully created.

In many ways, "The Great Ziegfeld" is a celebration of the golden age of Hollywood, where larger-than-life personalities and extravagant productions were the norm. The film's enduring popularity is a testament to its enduring charm and the timeless appeal of its subject matter. Whether you're a fan of classic cinema, musical theater, or simply a lover of grand spectacle, "The Great Ziegfeld" is a must-see film that will leave you captivated and entertained.

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