Help! I recently stumbled upon this amazing still and remembered that I’ve never seen this film. Mainly because every copy that I’ve come across is on VHS (I don’t have a VHS player anymore, womp womp). If anyone knows where I can get a copy on DVD (not available on Netflix or Amazon) email me the deets please and we’ll be friends for life! Thanks!
True Story: I didn’t feel like watching any films this week. Sometimes it’s nice to listen to records and chill out with a good book instead. Add a cup of tea and you’re golden. I rediscovered William Klein Films, a book I purchased after seeing one of his films last summer. It opens with an essay about Klein’s career (unsurprisingly he began as a photographer for fashion magazine Look) and has great quotes from the director about his process and the thinking behind some of his films. Then it gets even better: tons of images and stills that showcase Klein’s amazing eye. I first saw his fashion industry satire Who Are You Polly Maggoo? last year and it’s now one of my favorite films! Whether you’re a fan of his work or you’re thinking “Who the hell is William Klein?”, it’s a great (and inexpensive!) book to add to your collection.
Who doesn’t like a story about an underdog overcoming adversary? Actually I’m not sure if not being able to get a date or get laid would be seen as adversary; But let’s just go with it to make Georgy’s story seem more thrilling! Before John Hughes made you root for Molly Ringwald, there was Georgy: a funny girl who is unlucky is love. This is made more apparent by her glamorous and coquettish roommate Meredith (Charlotte Rampling) who has more parties and suitors than she can keep up with. Did I mention that she’s gorgeous too? Some girls have all the luck. (Click on that, thank me later. P.S. I’m jet lagged in Japan, can you tell?!)
One day, something changes. Not in Georgy, but in everyone else. Men that never noticed her before are now vying for her affection, and the new found attention is all a bit overwhelming for her. She gets not just one guy but two! I’ve gotta mention that these dudes aren’t exactly Brad Pitt or Jean Paul Belmondo but still, the girl gets her man. Of course she also learns life lessons and grows up a little along the way too! Isn’t this what ALWAYS happens in these kind of movies? And isn’t it great!? Yes and Yes.
“Hey there, Georgy girl/There’s another Georgy deep inside/Bring out all the love you hide and, oh, what a change there’d be/The world would see a new Georgy girl”
- The Seekers (lyrics from the film’s theme “Georgy Girl”)
When I first saw this image in 1997 I remember photocopying it a million times. I couldn’t believe or fully understand what was in front of me, but I knew that it was incredibly beautiful and to this day it is one of the most striking images I have ever seen. It kind of changed my life and introduced me to Alexander McQueen: one of the first designers that inspired me to follow my dreams and move to New York City. His untimely passing breaks my heart and I know that I nor the fashion world will be the same without his talent and genius.
I have an problem with musicals. Whenever I watch them, I usually find it hard to concentrate on the plot or narrative (though these are usually a little thin anyways) because I’m anticipating all of the musical numbers. I’m just waiting for everyone to break out into song à la Trapped in the Closet and dramatically harmonize any and ALL dialogue. Basically, I don’t wanna hear your mouth unless some singing is coming out of it?! This was my issue with Dames. I found myself dying to fast forward just to get to the Busby Berkeley dance numbers.
I enjoyed the second half of the film because it gets to the point: a musical called “Sweet and Hot” (ha!) and some gorgeous numbers. Berkeley had an amazing eye for composition and he uses his dancers to create some mesmerizing and beautiful imagery. His use of the overhead shot is especially impressive and still inspiring people to this day. I’m confused on how I feel about musicals in general, but I would love to see more from this Busby Berkeley fellow!
Editor’s Note: I had a snow day today and there were so many beautiful images (and lovely dames of course) that I didn’t hold back when editing. Aren’t you lucky!
*After seeing this film you may have the song “I Only Have Eyes for You” stuck in your head for a minute! You’ve been warned.
Just got home from seeing HOUSE at the IFC center and my mind is officially blown to bits! This movie is on another fucking level of amazing and ridiculous. You HAVE to see it for yourself, you will not be disappointed! Just found out it has been extended! Do it!
Thinking about checking this out tomorrow night at the IFC Center. After seeing Onibaba, I’m itching to see more Japanese horror films and the poster and this ridiculous image have pretty much sold me. See details here if you’re interested, perfect for a lazy Tuesday night…
