Rosalie

Rosalie, released in 1937, is a lavish, big-budget musical romance film from Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) that features some of the biggest stars of its era, including Nelson Eddy, Eleanor Powell, and Frank Morgan. The film is directed by W.S. Van Dyke and is based on a 1928 musical by George Gershwin and Sigmund Romberg.

In the heart of this vibrant musical is the story of love, adventure, and royal intrigue set against the backdrop of the mesmerizing superpower of the time, the United States, and the picturesque fictional kingdom of Romanza, an Eastern European country. This enchanting narrative coupled with stunning visuals and enchanting songs ensures a cinematic spectacle that engages audiences and transports them into a world filled with romance and music.

Nelson Eddy plays Dick Thorpe, an all-American football hero studying at an American University where the vivacious and talented Eleanor Powell takes the role of Rosalie, a shy and elusive exchange student. Eddy, known for his magnetic charm and charisma, brings the typical heroic energy and vocal prowess to his role, charming the audiences with his robust character. On the other hand, Powell, with her extraordinary dancing skills, exhibits a vulnerable yet fiery persona, which easily captivates the audience.

Their serendipitous encounter leads to a heartwarming romance that gradually blossoms into a passionate love story fraught with complexities and challenges. As the plot unfolds, we discover that Rosalie harbors a great secret identity, which drastically changes the trajectory of their lives, unraveling a myriad of emotions and dauntless adventures.

The most significant draw of Rosalie is perhaps its musical element. Infused with a resplendent musical score by composer Cole Porter, the songs in the film are breathtakingly beautiful with their enchanting tunes and heart-touching lyrics. The film showcases Porter's impressive range - from playful and whimsical tunes to profound and heartfelt ballads - that creates an encapsulating ambience throughout the performance.

Nelson Eddy's baritone voice harmonizing with the melody, combined with Eleanor Powell's masterful tap dancing sequences, make every musical element of the film simply mesmerizing. Their on-screen chemistry takes a life of its own during these musical numbers, speaking volumes about their tumultuous romance. This is exemplified in the iconic scenes such as Powell's sensational shipboard tap dance and the stirring singing of Eddy.

Another key component of this film is the comic relief provided by the legendary Frank Morgan, who takes on the role of King Fredrick of Romanza. His character injects humor and light-heartedness into the film without overshadowing the main plotline, which is testament to Morgan's impeccable comedic timing and diverse acting range. His endearing portrayal of a kind-hearted monarch adds a layer of warmth to the film.

Rosalie is also memorable for its stunning visuals and set designs. Its beautiful mise en scene carries the signature opulence of MGM's golden age productions. The film brilliantly juxtaposes the grandeur of a European royal castle with the hustle and bustle of an American university. The costumes, designed by the legendary Adrian, range from opulent royal gowns to trendy American university attire, enhancing the aura of every character.

In a nutshell, Rosalie is a classic example of MGM's capability to present a grand spectacle of music, dance, elaborate sets, and compelling storytelling. It is a quintessential piece of Golden Age Hollywood cinema that masterfully combines elements of romance, music, comedy, and royal intrigue, delivering a timeless cinematic experience. Be it the stirring romance between Rosalie and Dick, the enchanting melodies resonating throughout the film, the daring adventure, or the comical nuances, the film has something to offer for everyone. Rosalie truly is a testament to the classic era of Hollywood musicals which continues to captivate contemporary audiences with its timeless charm.