Year: 1933
Director: Bubsy Berkeley
Country: US
Language: English
"We're in the money!" Gold Diggers of 1933 was an essential viewing during the great depression, if one could afford it, because it took your mind off the grim reality of the day during its breezy 1hr 37 minute run-time. Presently the picture is known for its escapism and its pre-code sexuality. The musical number "Pettin in the Park" was pretty risque for the time, as it shows a dozen women undressing.
In this a wealthy composer (Warren William) rescues unemployed Broadway performers (Joan Blondell and Ginger Rogers among them) with a new play.
The story is based on the play The Gold Diggers by Avery Hopwood, which ran for 282 performances on Broadway in 1919 and 1920. It was first adapted to screen in 1923, and then again in 1929. This version, staged and choreographed by the famed Bubsy Berkeley, was the biggest box office hit of that year, it was a tremendous critical success, and is still considered one of the greatest musicals of all time.
Gold Diggers of 1933 is equal parts funny, sexy and dramatic. It takes the poverty, sexual attitudes and humor of the time and blends them to great success. The movie is weird at times, but it is also sophisticated and graceful in its presentation. The film’s directors, Mervyn LeRoy and Busby Berkeley, take measured pains to make this movie about the Depression–but also give much needed escapist breaks.
This Bubsy Berkeley musical is wonderful; it will make you fall in love with the movie musical all over again. Its numbers, particularly the two previously mentioned in this review, are difficult to forget even 80+ years after the fact.
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