The 1937 film A Star Is Born is a classic Hollywood love story about a rising star and the fading star who falls for her. The film has Janet Gaynor as Esther Blodgett, an aspiring actress, and Fredric March as Norman Maine, a famous actor who is struggling with alcoholism.
Esther arrives in Hollywood with dreams of becoming a movie star. She lands a job as an extra, but she is soon discovered by Norman Maine. Norman is immediately smitten with Esther, and he helps her to launch her career.
Esther quickly becomes a star, but Norman's career begins to decline. He becomes increasingly jealous of Esther's success, and he spirals into a depression. Norman also begins to drink heavily, and his alcoholism alienates Esther and their friends.
Despite Norman's problems, Esther remains loyal to him. She loves him, and she wants to help him. However, Norman is too far gone, and he eventually takes his own life.
A Star Is Born is a tragic love story, but it is also a story of hope and resilience. Esther Blodgett is a strong and determined woman who overcomes many obstacles to achieve her dreams. The film also explores the dark side of Hollywood, and the pressures that can be placed on celebrities.
It was a critical and commercial success when it was released. It was nominated for seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actress for Janet Gaynor. The film has been remade twice, in 1954 and 2018.
The 1937 version of A Star Is Born is considered to be the classic version of the story. It is a beautifully made film with strong performances from the cast. The film is still relevant today, and it continues to resonate with audiences.
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Cast
- Janet Gaynor as Esther Blodgett/Vicki Lester
- Fredric March as Norman Maine
- Adolphe Menjou as Oliver Niles
- May Robson as Grandmother Lettie Blodgett
- Andy Devine as Daniel "Danny" McGuire
- Lionel Stander as Matt Libby
- Owen Moore as Casey Burke
- Peggy Wood as Miss Phillips
- Elizabeth Jenns as Anita Regis
- Edgar Kennedy as Pop Randall
- J. C. Nugent as Mr. Blodgett
- Guinn "Big Boy" Williams as posture coach
- Clara Blandick as Aunt Mattie (uncredited)
Director: William A. Wellman
Writers: Dorothy Parker, Alan Campbell, Robert Carson |
Box Office Gross: $2.37 million
Distributor: [United Artists]((@leoglossary/leoglossary-united-artists-film-ua)
Genre: Drama
Release Date: April 20, 1937