The Great Ziegfeld

The Great Ziegfeld

Year: 1936

Runtime: 176 min

Language: English

Director: Robert Z. Leonard

DramaMusical

This dazzling biographical drama chronicles the career of Florenz Ziegfeld, a flamboyant figure who revolutionized Broadway with his lavish stage productions. Beginning with smaller showcases of talent, Ziegfeld’s ambition led him to create spectacular revues featuring elaborate sets, costumes, and numerous performers. His creative pursuits and whirlwind romances with actresses Anna Held and Billie Burke intertwine, creating a complex love triangle against the backdrop of the vibrant show business world.

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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

Unlock the Full Story of The Great Ziegfeld

Don't stop at just watching — explore The Great Ziegfeld in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what The Great Ziegfeld is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

The Great Ziegfeld Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Great Ziegfeld, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

The Great Ziegfeld Summary

The Great Ziegfeld Timeline

Track the full timeline of The Great Ziegfeld with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

The Great Ziegfeld Timeline

More About The Great Ziegfeld

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about The Great Ziegfeld: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About The Great Ziegfeld

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