Blondie of the Follies

Blondie of the Follies is a 1932 pre-Code drama film directed by Edmund Goulding, produced by Marion Davies, and released by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM). The film stars Davies herself, alongside Robert Montgomery, and Billie Dove, with the film's screenplay written by Anita Loos and Frances Marion. This film is delightful to viewers who enjoy vintage Hollywood and provides a captivating insight into the lifestyle of the Follies girls of that era.

The film tells the story of two tenement girls on the Lower East Side, Blondie (played by Marion Davies) and Lurline (played by Billie Dove), who have been friends since childhood and maintain a deep, sisterly bond. Both women essentially become sisters from another mother, having been raised very closely within the narrow, hustling-bustling streets of New York City.

Blondie is a sassy, feisty girl with a trademark wit and wisecracking personality, which sets her apart and makes her immensely enjoyable to watch. That's Marion Davies's charm at work. She's an approachable girl next door who lands herself into various adventures. On the other hand, Lurline is a more elegant and refined showgirl with a demeanor that seems to demand respect.

Their worlds start to take on different shapes as Lurline gets a chance in a showgirl troupe at the New York Follies and leaves her humble abode, while Blondie is left behind, keeping up with low-paying jobs. Eventually, Blondie's vibrant personality also lands her a spot in the Follies, bringing her back into Lurline's world. Their friendship stands trials and tribulations as they navigate the glitzy and often brutal world of show business.

Throughout the glittering stages and dingy dressing rooms of the Follie's theatres, these two women face the challenges associated with newfound fame, wealth, and the consequential allure of upper society's wealthy men. This forms the central tension that propels the film forward. Their bond is tested, especially when one of the Follie's patrons, Larry Belmont, played by Robert Montgomery, enters the picture, spinning their relationship and future on an unpredictable trajectory.

This film does a beautiful job of capturing the stark contrast between the poor neighborhoods from where the girls originated and the sparkling world of the Follies theatre and the high society that surrounds it. It's a visually rich film that complements the narrative's emotional intensity.

Marion Davies shines in her performance with her comedic timing, showcasing the depth required to portray Blondie, a character with a sharp tongue, sass, and the jovial demeanor concealing a resilient heart and an unwavering spirit. Simultaneously, Billie Dove does a commendable job by exploring the emotional complexities associated with ambition, success, friendship, and class.

Robert Montgomery, as the wealthy leader Larry Belmont, delivers a solid performance too. He doesn't merely serve as the film's handsome face, and his character adds a substantial contribution to the narrative's development. It's not just a love triangle, but an intriguing commentary on friendships, loyalty, and personal ambition.

Edmund Goulding's direction is entirely in sync with the era's tone and demands, providing a fluidity to the narrative flow that keeps viewers hooked. His direction heightens the dramatic moments, capitalizes on the comedic potential, and delves deep into emotional territories without slipping into melodrama. The film's beauty also lies in the brilliantly written screenplay by Anita Loos and Frances Marion, which paints a picture of the '30s era with utmost precision and flair.

Despite being filmed and released during the early years of the 'talkies,' Blondie of the Follies is not held back by the era's limitations. Instead, it presents a sophisticated take on the era's social dynamics and dazzles with the glitz and charm of old Hollywood.

In summary, Blondie of the Follies, despite falling under the radar amid bigger '30s classics, is an unsung gem. It's a must-watch for those intrigued by the aura of the Jazz Age, the charisma of the Follies girls, and epic tales of friendships forged in the most testing and vibrant of circumstances, all packaged into a tightly narrated, visually stunning film.