Lovely to Look at (1952/MGM) You're Devastating!

 

Lovely to Look at (1952) / MGM Studios

 

Directed By: Mervyn Leroy

 

Starring: Howard Keel, Kathryn Grayson, Ann Miller, Red Skelton, Marge/Gower Champion, Zsa Zsa Gabor

Gowns By: Adrian

Plot:


The musical is based on the play/musical from 1935 entitled "Roberta." We meet three good friends being; Tony Naylor (Keel), Al Marsh (Skelton), and Jerry Ralby (Gower Champion). A party is held by the three friends who are looking for big time investors to back the new show they want to put on.

A message comes for Al whose Aunt Roberta has passed away in Paris resulting in him owning half of her elegant clothing boutique. The boutique makes it's own clothing for the best of the best of clients. The three good friends are over the moon of the potential cash windfall that Al has fallen into. The thought is to all over to Paris and see the boutique that could possibly be sold off for a hefty revenue.

The three friends head over to Paris and meet the adopted sisters to the Aunt Roberta who are; Stephanie (Grayson) and Clarisse (Marge Champion). Things do not start off that well since the three friends simply want to do a business transaction and have the two ladies buy Al's shares out. Unfortunately, the boutique is not what it once was as a thriving shop but one that is about to close it's doors.

Tony right off takes note to the beautiful Stephanie and blames her for the poor business with the poor and older looking clothing line. They exchange words and the passion starts! What is decided is that a Broadway style review is needed at the boutique after the clothing line is spruced up and brought awake again. Tony thinks this is a must and Al/ Jerry agrees. By doing this, Al can sell his half off and go back to Broadway. The bankers listen to Tony's ideas for the boutique and buy into with backing and advancing more money for the endeavor. Enters Bubbles a showgirl and a flame for Tony who is in Paris with her man.

Beautiful dance numbers ensue for all actors to take part. Zsa Zsa is a famous model in Paris who wears the boutiques clothing in it's elaborate runway show. With Jerome Kern's music in place it is a lovely classic to watch!