Harlow

Harlow is a gripping biographical film that was released in 1965. The movie, which is directed by Alex Segal and Gordon Douglas, provides an intense indelible insight into the tragic life of the Golden Age Hollywood star, Jean Harlow, who is played magnificently by the talented Carroll Baker.

“Harlow,” written by John Michael Hayes, walks the audience through the story of the renowned starlet who earned her fame in the 1930s. Jean Harlow was one of the definitive stars of the era and still stands as one of the icons of classic American cinema. Unfortunately, her life was not as glamorous as her image; a tormented and tumultuous life marked by a series of personal problems and dramatic moments. The movie takes us on a journey through her early life and career, highlighting many struggles and triumphs along the way.

Carroll Baker expertly personifies the silver screen diva in “Harlow,” carefully painting a vivid picture of a woman who's ostensibly successful and enchanting but also emotionally complex and vulnerable. Her moving portrayal of Harlow's character is especially impactful because of how authentically she relays the peculiar dynamics between her celeb status and her personal life.

Red Buttons provides a capable performance as Harlow's agent, Arthur Landau, who is caught up in her extravagant lifestyle, becoming more of a father figure than a manager. The film presents him as an insider who cared deeply about Harlow, often serving as her voice of reason while navigating the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. The on-screen connection between Baker and Buttons provides depth and adds a significant layer of authenticity to the tale.

Raf Vallone's role adds another layer to the plot, Herrera, a charismatic acquaintance introduced by Arthur. Through Vallone's character, we witness Jean's longing for genuine human connection amid the glittering facade of her stardom. The performances of the supporting cast create a rich tapestry of characters that add depth and nuance to the biopic.

The movie focuses on the rise of Harlow’s career and her tormented public and private personas. On a deeper level, it exposes the flip-side of fame. It offers a poignant and critical view of the Hollywood pressure cooker, its exploitative tendencies towards its leading stars, and its often-dehumanizing impact.

Subtly, the film explores the dichotomy of Harlow – a sex symbol to millions yet a very vulnerable woman haunted by personal insecurities and challenges. It portrays her innocence, her fraught relationships, her marital disasters, and her untimely death in a touching and enlightening way that remains sympathetic without becoming overly sentimental.

In terms of direction, both Alex Segal and Gordon Douglas displayed a unique acumen in portraying turbulent emotions and lavish scenes alike. The film has several impressive camera movements and positioning that masterfully paint the inner world of the characters. A significant part of the movie’s allure is in its cinematography and the visual boldness of several scenes that encapsulate the glamour, spectacle, and the darker undertones of the Golden Age of Hollywood.

While primarily dramatic, "Harlow" has moments of comic relief, mainly through the witty dialogue and delicate moments of normalcy amidst the wild roller coaster of Harlow's life. The screenplay succeeds in preserving the authenticity of Harlow's struggles and provides a candid image of the roller-coaster life she led in Hollywood's Golden Age.

"Harlow" is a film of many charms and emotions as it twirls around the life of a woman who was made to believe in her own invincibility and later collapsed under the weight of it. This film is a tour deforce from the cast, a compelling narrative coupled with Baker's undeniably dedicated performance.

In conclusion, “Harlow” is a deeply touching biographical exploration of an iconic figure, her rise to stardom, and her tragic fall. A powerful commentary on the price of fame, the movie captures the spirit of a Hollywood era long past but never forgotten. This biopic, filled with strong performances and a captivating story, is essential for any vintage Hollywood enthusiast or anyone interested in a well-told, deeply compelling human story.