The Great Ziegfeld

The Great Ziegfeld is a 1936 American musical biographical film about Broadway impresario Florenz Ziegfeld Jr., starring William Powell, Myrna Loy, and Luise Rainer.

Florenz Ziegfeld Jr.: Florenz Ziegfeld Jr. was an American theatrical producer best known for the lavish Ziegfeld Follies revues. The film turns his rise, marriages, and theatrical ambitions into its biographical narrative.
Ziegfeld Follies: The Ziegfeld Follies were lavish Broadway revues produced by Florenz Ziegfeld Jr. from 1907 to 1931. Their extravagant stage numbers supply the film’s defining show-business imagery.
A Pretty Girl Is Like a Melody: “A Pretty Girl Is Like a Melody” is a 1919 song by Irving Berlin, introduced in the Ziegfeld Follies. The film’s revolving, tiered staircase number recreates the song as a spectacular centerpiece.
9th Academy Awards: The 9th Academy Awards honored films released in 1936 and took place in Los Angeles in 1937. The Great Ziegfeld won Best Picture and two acting awards at this ceremony.
William Powell: William Powell was an American film actor known for urbane roles, including Nick Charles in The Thin Man series. He portrayed Ziegfeld, carrying the film’s central characterization.
Broadway theatre: Broadway theatre is the professional theatrical industry centered on venues in Manhattan’s Theater District. The film presents Ziegfeld’s career as a story of Broadway’s commercial stage.
Academy Award for Best Picture: The Academy Award for Best Picture is an annual award recognizing a film selected by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. The Great Ziegfeld won the award at the 9th Academy Awards.
Billie Burke: Billie Burke was an American actor known for stage work and for playing Glinda in The Wizard of Oz. The film depicts Ziegfeld’s marriage to Burke, who was still living when it was made.
Myrna Loy: Myrna Loy was an American film actor known for playing Nora Charles and for later dramatic roles. She played Billie Burke, Ziegfeld’s second wife.
Musical film: A musical film is a motion picture in which songs and often dance form part of the narrative or spectacle. Its production numbers place the biography within Hollywood’s musical-film tradition.

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