Are you a fan of classic Hollywood movies? If so, you may have heard of the film “A Star is Born,” which has been remade multiple times over the years.
But did you know that the original 1937 version was actually titled “What Price Hollywood?” Let’s take a closer look at this lesser-known gem of a movie.
The Plot
“What Price Hollywood?” tells the story of Mary Evans, a young and ambitious waitress who dreams of becoming an actress.
One night, she serves drinks to film director Max Carey, who is impressed by her wit and charm. He invites her to his table and soon offers her a small role in his latest movie.
Mary quickly rises through the ranks with Max’s help, becoming a successful actress and catching the eye of wealthy playboy Lonny Borden. However, her success comes at a cost as Lonny’s drinking problem threatens to derail both their personal and professional lives.
The Cast
The lead role of Mary Evans was played by Constance Bennett, a popular actress in the 1920s and 30s known for her glamourous persona. The role of Max Carey went to Lowell Sherman, who also directed the film. Sherman was known for his work as both an actor and director in Hollywood during this time period.
Other notable cast members include Neil Hamilton as Lonny Borden and Gregory Ratoff as Sergei Korsakoff, a Russian director who takes Mary under his wing.
The Legacy
Despite being overshadowed by its more famous remake, “What Price Hollywood?” was well-received upon its release and has since gained recognition as an important precursor to “A Star is Born.” In fact, some critics have argued that it is even better than later versions because it doesn’t rely on big musical numbers or melodramatic plot twists.
The film also offers an interesting look at Hollywood during the 1930s, with many scenes taking place behind-the-scenes on movie sets or at glamorous parties. It’s a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era of Hollywood history.
Conclusion
If you’re a fan of classic Hollywood movies, “What Price Hollywood?” is definitely worth checking out.
With its engaging plot, strong performances, and historical significance, it’s a film that deserves to be remembered alongside its more famous counterparts. So grab some popcorn and settle in for an evening of old-school movie magic!
