edgedrv Posted May 29, 2005 Share Posted May 29, 2005 These two films were discussed on a different thread with various opinions on which film was the favorite musical. This weekend in Los Angeles I got to see the two films on the big theatre screen for the first time in years as a double feature. Both films have so much in common: Lerner & Loewe composers, Oscar winners for best picture, best scoring by Andre Previn, best costumes by Cecil Beaton. Both films won for best director Cukor for LADY and Minnelli for GIGI. Oddly enough Minnelli was the first choice for director of MY FAIR LADY. I think the second half of LADY where Hepburn is transformed into a dazzling beauty is much better than the first half of the film. I like many of the musical sequences including Hepburn's "I Could Have Danced all Night", the Ascot Gavotte number done all in B&W and Harrison's admitting "I've Grown Accustomed to Her Face." But I still think this is a stage bound musical and still feel so. However, then I have to tip the scales to GIGI as the better film musical. Although a remake of a former French film, this one is an original screen musical. With Minnelli directing the film it is a visual treat. Filming on location in France certainly was a plus. Caron is adorable and sweet in the title role with the rest of the cast sublime: Jourdan, Chevalier and Gingold. The score is still memorable and the audience even applauded at the end of the screening. I only hope that Warner is preparing a special edition DVD of this classic MGM musical. The only way to see these two wonderful musicals is on a big theatre screen. Its like seeing the two films for the first time. There is no comparison when watching on a small TV screen or even the new 52" or larger sets. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sabrinakfair2 Posted June 1, 2005 Share Posted June 1, 2005 I'm listening to "The Rain in Spain" right now...and I absolutely love "My Fair Lady"!!! Probably because I'm such a BIG fan of Audrey Hepburn. I didn't see all of "Gigi" either (about 3/4)...but I didn't like "Gigi"'s ending. It was way too abrupt. I mean he just walks in and says ok I'll marry you. Not that I really liked "My Fair Lady"'s ending either. But it was more believable and I didn't expect Higgins to jump up and kiss Eliza and proclaim his love for her either. But alot of factors make me prejudice in this aspect...so just ignore these if I seem too much so. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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