The Great Ziegfeld

The Great Ziegfeld

Year: 1936

Runtime: 176 min

Language: English

Director: Robert Z. Leonard

DramaMusical

In this dazzling biopic, the larger-than-life Florenz Ziegfeld brings glamour to the Great White Way with his opulent stage shows. From humble beginnings showcasing individual talents to mounting spectacular revues featuring dozens of women, Ziegfeld's creative genius ignites a love triangle among actresses Anna Held and Billie Burke, amidst his whirlwind romance with show business.

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Timeline & Setting – The Great Ziegfeld (1936)
Explore the full timeline and setting of The Great Ziegfeld (1936). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Late 19th century to 1929

The film spans the late 19th century, capturing a transformative era in entertainment. The 1893 World Fair marked a significant cultural shift, inspiring many, including Ziegfeld, to innovate theatrical performances. The subsequent events, notably the 1929 stock market crash, reveal the volatility of success during this period.

Location

New York City, Europe

New York City serves as the vibrant hub of American entertainment, particularly during the early 20th century. Known for its theaters and cultural diversity, it became the perfect backdrop for Ziegfeld's grand productions. Europe is highlighted as a source of fresh talent and inspiration, integral to Ziegfeld's artistic journey.

🏙️ City 🌍 Europe

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:09

Main Characters – The Great Ziegfeld (1936)
Meet the key characters of The Great Ziegfeld (1936), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Florenz Ziegfeld Jr.

A visionary showman, Ziegfeld is relentless in his quest for success in the entertainment world. His charm and creativity enable him to turn innovative ideas into spectacular shows, though his ambition often leads to personal sacrifices. Despite his brilliance, his flaws contribute to the unraveling of his relationships and fortunes.

🌟 Showman 🎶 Creative 💔 Tragic

Anna Held

A talented French singer, Anna becomes the centerpiece of Ziegfeld's theatrical ambitions. Initially undervalued, her rise to fame is orchestrated by Ziegfeld's clever publicity stunts. Despite their marriage, her beauty and talent are overshadowed by Ziegfeld's relentless pursuit of success.

🎤 Singer 💃 Star ❤️ Tragic

Billie Burke

Billie is Ziegfeld's second wife, embodying unwavering support for his endeavors. As his financial struggles escalate, she sacrifices her own belongings to aid him. She represents both the emotional ballast and the personal costs of Ziegfeld's extravagant lifestyle.

🎭 Actress 💎 Supportive 💔 Resilient

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:09

Major Themes – The Great Ziegfeld (1936)
Explore the central themes of The Great Ziegfeld (1936), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

✨ Ambition

The theme of ambition runs deep in Ziegfeld's journey, showcasing his relentless pursuit of success in the entertainment industry. His innovative ideas, such as merging glamour with performance, highlight the lengths one will go to achieve dreams. However, this ambition also leads to personal turmoil and financial ruin.

💔 Love and Loss

Ziegfeld's relationships, particularly with Anna Held and Billie Burke, reflect the complexities of love intertwined with ambition. As his career flourished, personal sacrifices became evident, leading to heartache and divorce. The interplay between his love life and career choices ultimately showcases the high cost of success.

🎭 Theatricality

The essence of theatricality is crucial as Ziegfeld revolutionizes stage productions with grandiose spectacles. His flair for drama and publicity stunts captivates audiences, emphasizing how performance can manipulate public perception. This theme is central to the legacy left by Ziegfeld, pushing the boundaries of entertainment.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:09

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