#1950sparty

ACTRESS AVA GARDNER IN A CHIFFON ROBE, CIRCA 1942. 💕

Marilyn Monroe in promotional photos for the 1954 film, There's No Business Like Show Business

Marilyn Monroe and Arthur Miller in 1957 at the April in Paris Ball at the hotel.

Source: thevintagecameo.com

Gene Kelly and Frank Sinatra in "Anchors Aweigh" (1945).

Anchors Aweigh was their first collaboration, and introduces the classic set up of them as Navy sailors on leave, hunting for girls and generally having a good old time. This time they’re on leave in Hollywood, and their object of pursuit is Susie, played by Kathryn Grayson. 

"Anchors Aweigh" Kathryn Grayson, Frank Sinatra, Gene Kelly (1945) MGM.

Their next teaming-up was Take Me Out to the Ball Game, which features the endearingly goofy premise that two star baseball players are also vaudeville performers in the off season. Back on the field, their new manager is K.C. Higgens, who turns out to be Katherine Catherine Higgins, who turns out to be Esther Williams. Both the boys start going after her, but this time Frank has Betty Garrett waiting in the wings, as Wolves superfan Shirley.  

Frank Sinatra, Betty Garrett, Gene Kelly, and Esther Williams.

"Take Me Out to the Ball Game" (1949)

On the Town marks their last appearance together, but it’s the one that made perhaps the most permanent mark on the classical film canon–it’s currently (and well-deservedly) ranked #19 on AFI’s list of greatest musicals. Gene and Frank return to their “roots” as sailors on leave, this time bringing back Jules Pushin as the third in their trio and Betty Garrett as Frank’s love interest.

Gene Kelly, Frank Sinatra, and Bettt Garrett in "On The Town" (1949).

Gene Kelly, Frank Sinatra, and Jules Munshin in On the Town (1949)

Gene Kelly, Frank Sinatra, Betty Garrett, Ann Miller, Jules Munshin, and Vera-Ellen in On the Town (1949)

Gene and Frank were supposed to work together again for the musical spoof Robin and the Seven Hoods, with Gene playing the role of producer and director this time. Early press indicates perhaps a veiled conflict already brewing, as Gene tells the Associated Press here that since it’s Frank’s money, he can do whatever he wants.  The AP valiantly tries to spin the statement, but the quote still certainly sounds like it’s coming from the context of a larger, more serious argument. And indeed, three weeks before principal photography begins, Gene exits the picture. One source suggests that their work styles were too different, and that Gene walked away from the working relationship in order to preserve their off-set friendship. Frank was later quoted as saying he felt like he was just taking orders in regards to the film, not making decisions.

Anchors Aweigh, Take Me Out to the Ball Game, and On the Town remain a time capsule of two actors at the height of their abilities, and who are both so, so awfully… nice to watch.

❣❣❣

Sources: thevintagecameo.com

Marilyn Monroe on the set of "Some Like it Hot" (1959)

“How To Marry A Millionaire”

A flowing purple gown, designed by Oscar winning designer William “Billy” Travilla, worn for Marilyn’s dance scene with Lauren Bacall in the penthouse apartment.  Ultimately, this scene was cut from the final production.  However, there are several photos of Marilyn wearing this costume.

Marilyn Monroe sits in a mess hall conversing with soldiers stationed Korea in 1954. While on her honeymoon with Joe DiMaggio, Marilyn Monroe was asked spontaneously by a High Commanding officer if she would take a "side trip" and entertain the troops in Korea. She jumped at the chance. It was a huge morale booster for the troops, and also for her, even though she performed in horrific cold weather (leaving her to return with pneumonia), she powered on.