Marilyn Monroe in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953)

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Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953) is a musical comedy staring Marilyn Monroe and Jane Russell as best friends who work together as showgirls. Marilyn is very blonde, and a real gold digger, while Russell is brunette, and is more interested in love than money. Yet opposites attract, and they are best of friends.

Marilyn is to sail to France to wait for her wedding to a millionaire who sends Russell along as a chaperone. His father, disapproving of the marriage, sends a private detective to gather dirt on Marilyn. Russell and the detective fall in love, which tends to complicate things. There is exactly one memorable song, "Diamonds are a Girl's Best Friend".

This is the only film in the set that is 4/3 rather than anamorphic, as the original was not wide screen. The restoration is again excellent. Russell is actually a stronger screen presence in this film, but not by much. The film won both actresses a slab of cement at Grumman's Chinese. They left their prints in the same ceremony.

The costuming is rather conservative compared to the other films in this set, but Marilyn still looks fabulous. Those who hate musical comedy may still find Monroe and Russell worth seeing. C+.

Critics Vote: Leonard Maltin says three stars

IMDB Summary: 7.1 out of 10.

Written by: Tuna ...courtesy of scoopy.net