44 Facts About The Movie The Great Ziegfeld

The Great Ziegfeld won three Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

The Great Ziegfeld is a 1936 American musical film directed by Robert Z. Leonard. It is a biographical portrayal of the life and career of showman Florenz Ziegfeld Jr. Here are 44 interesting facts about this iconic movie:

The movie was based on the real-life showman Florenz Ziegfeld Jr.

Florenz Ziegfeld Jr. was known for creating extravagant stage productions, including the Ziegfeld Follies. The movie aimed to capture the essence of his life and career.

The Great Ziegfeld featured an all-star cast, including William Powell as Florenz Ziegfeld Jr.

William Powell’s portrayal of Florenz Ziegfeld Jr. was highly acclaimed and earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.

The film was one of the most expensive movies made at the time.

The Great Ziegfeld had a budget of $2 million, which was a significant sum in The filmmakers spared no expense in creating elaborate sets and costumes.

The movie showcased extravagant musical numbers and elaborate dance sequences.

One of the highlights of The Great Ziegfeld is its grand musical numbers, featuring stunning choreography and lavish costumes. These sequences were a reflection of the opulence of Ziegfeld’s real-life productions.

The film’s iconic staircase sequence cost $220,000 to create.

The Great Ziegfeld is known for its memorable staircase scene, where showgirls descend a grand staircase in glamorous outfits. This sequence alone accounted for a significant portion of the film’s budget.

The Great Ziegfeld was praised for its innovative use of Technicolor.

The movie was among the first to utilize Technicolor, a revolutionary color film process, to enhance its visual appeal. The vibrant colors added depth and richness to the musical numbers.

The Great Ziegfeld featured a song that became an instant hit.

The song “A Pretty Girl Is Like a Melody” was performed by actress Virginia Bruce in the film and became a chart-topping hit. It went on to win the Academy Award for Best Original Song.

The film’s running time is approximately 176 minutes.

The Great Ziegfeld is known for its lengthy runtime, but the engaging story and captivating performances keep viewers entertained throughout.

The film was a commercial success, grossing over $3.5 million at the box office.

The Great Ziegfeld was not only successful critically but also at the box office. It became one of the highest-grossing films of 1936.

The Great Ziegfeld features an appearance by legendary entertainer Fanny Brice.

Fanny Brice, known for her comedic and singing talents, makes a cameo appearance in the film. Her character serves as a connection between the real-life Ziegfeld and his fictionalized portrayal.

The film’s costumes were designed by Adrian.

Adrian, a renowned Hollywood costume designer, created the stunning outfits worn by the characters in The Great Ziegfeld. His attention to detail and flair for elegance added to the film’s visual spectacle.

The movie included re-enactments of famous Ziegfeld productions.

The Great Ziegfeld incorporates recreations of some of Ziegfeld’s most iconic stage productions, allowing audiences to experience the magic and grandeur of his shows.

The film received mixed reviews from critics.

While the movie was praised for its visuals and performances, some critics felt that it focused too much on spectacle and lacked a cohesive narrative.

The Great Ziegfeld inspired a renewed interest in Ziegfeld’s work.

The film rekindled public interest in Florenz Ziegfeld Jr. and his contributions to the entertainment industry. It led to revivals of the Ziegfeld Follies and other tribute shows.

The Great Ziegfeld was a groundbreaking film for its time.

The movie pushed the boundaries of what was considered possible in terms of production values and visual spectacle. Its impact on the musical genre cannot be overstated.

The Great Ziegfeld won the Academy Award for Best Dance Direction.

The film’s intricate dance sequences were recognized with an Academy Award, highlighting the skill and talent of the choreographers involved.

The movie depicted Ziegfeld’s rise to fame and his personal life.

The Great Ziegfeld delves into both the professional and personal aspects of Florenz Ziegfeld Jr.’s life, providing a balanced portrayal of the showman’s journey.

The Great Ziegfeld was a pioneering film in the use of sound technology.

The movie made extensive use of synchronized sound, showcasing advancements in audiovisual technology during the 1930s.

The film features stunning Art Deco set designs.

The Great Ziegfeld incorporates the Art Deco style prevalent during the 1920s and 1930s. The sets are visually striking and capture the era’s aesthetic.

The movie was nominated for seven Academy Awards in total.

Aside from winning Best Picture, The Great Ziegfeld received nominations for Best Director, Best Actor, Best Original Song, Best Art Direction, Best Film Editing, and Best Writing.

The Great Ziegfeld was based on a play by William Anthony McGuire.

The screenplay for the film was adapted from the play “Ziegfeld” by William Anthony McGuire. It provided the foundation for the movie’s storyline.

The film includes romantic subplots and love triangles.

In addition to showcasing Ziegfeld’s show business ventures, The Great Ziegfeld weaves in romantic storylines to add depth and emotional resonance.

The Great Ziegfeld’s release was delayed due to technical issues.

The film encountered difficulties during post-production, which caused delays in its release. However, the wait was worth it, as the final product was a visual masterpiece.

The Great Ziegfeld was praised for its extravagant costume designs.

The film’s costumes were considered a highlight, with intricate detailing and exquisite craftsmanship. They were a visual feast for viewers.

The movie’s success influenced the direction of future Hollywood musicals.

The Great Ziegfeld set a new standard for musical films and paved the way for more ambitious productions in the genre. Its influence can be seen in subsequent Hollywood musicals.

The Great Ziegfeld was remade in 1941 as “Ziegfeld Girl.”

The success of The Great Ziegfeld led to a remake titled “Ziegfeld Girl,” which featured a new cast but maintained the essence of the original film.

The Great Ziegfeld remains a beloved classic today.

Despite being released over eight decades ago, The Great Ziegfeld continues to captivate audiences with its grandeur and timeless storytelling.

The film’s runtime was reduced for its re-release in the 1940s.

The Great Ziegfeld was trimmed down to 132 minutes for its re-release, making it more streamlined and accessible to audiences at the time.

The Great Ziegfeld was adapted into a radio play.

The film’s popularity extended beyond the big screen, with a radio adaptation bringing the story and music of The Great Ziegfeld to audiences in a new format.

The movie featured a record-breaking cast of over 156 credited performers.

The Great Ziegfeld boasted an extensive ensemble cast, including actors, dancers, and musicians. This impressive lineup added to the film’s visual spectacle.

The Great Ziegfeld inspired a 1951 biographical film about Florenz Ziegfeld Jr.

Following the success of the original film, a biographical movie titled “Ziegfeld Follies” was released in 1951, further immortalizing Ziegfeld’s legacy.

The Great Ziegfeld was released during the Golden Era of Hollywood.

The film was part of a wave of successful and influential movies released during the 1930s, a period often referred to as the Golden Era of Hollywood.

The Great Ziegfeld’s success led to increased interest in musical biopics.

The film’s triumph at the box office and awards ceremonies paved the way for more musical biopics to be made, exploring the lives of renowned entertainers.

The movie’s advertising campaign was extensive and innovative.

The Great Ziegfeld utilized various promotional tactics, including newspaper advertisements, radio spots, and tie-ins with other products, to generate buzz.

The Great Ziegfeld showcased the changing landscape of the entertainment industry.

The film touches on the evolving nature of show business during the early 20th century, including the rise of vaudeville and the emergence of Broadway as the center of theatrical production.

The film’s set pieces were inspired by real Ziegfeld productions.

The elaborate sets in The Great Ziegfeld drew inspiration from the actual stage productions created by Florenz Ziegfeld Jr. This attention to detail added authenticity to the film.

The Great Ziegfeld was one of the first films to document the work of a stage impresario.

The movie demonstrated the behind-the-scenes efforts of a showman like Ziegfeld, shedding light on the intricacies of producing large-scale entertainment spectacles.

The Great Ziegfeld’s success led to spin-off projects.

The popularity of the film spawned spin-off projects, including books, documentaries, and stage adaptations, capitalizing on the public’s fascination with Ziegfeld and his era.

The film’s director, Robert Z. Leonard, was a veteran in the industry.

Robert Z. Leonard had a successful career as a director, and The Great Ziegfeld further cemented his reputation as a skilled filmmaker.

The Great Ziegfeld’s running time initially caused concerns.

The lengthy runtime of The Great Ziegfeld initially raised concerns among studio executives, who believed audiences would grow restless. However, the film’s compelling narrative kept viewers engaged.

The movie featured impressive special effects for its time.

The Great Ziegfeld utilized cutting-edge special effects techniques to enhance its musical sequences and create a sense of wonder for the audience.

The Great Ziegfeld received critical acclaim outside of the United States.

The film was not only well-received domestically but also garnered positive reviews from international audiences, solidifying its status as a global success.

The Great Ziegfeld’s legacy endures to this day.

The film’s impact on the musical genre, its stunning visuals, and its captivating performances ensure that The Great Ziegfeld continues to be remembered as a true Hollywood classic.

Conclusion

The movie “The Great Ziegfeld” is a timeless classic that has captivated audiences for generations. With its lavish sets, dazzling costumes, and unforgettable performances, it showcases the grandeur and glamour of the golden age of Hollywood. From the breathtaking dance sequences to the heartfelt drama, the film transports viewers to a bygone era filled with passion and ambition.With its compelling story based on the life of renowned showman Florenz Ziegfeld, “The Great Ziegfeld” offers a glimpse into the world of entertainment and the highs and lows of pursuing one’s dreams. The stellar cast, including William Powell as Ziegfeld and Luise Rainer as his talented wife Anna Held, delivers powerful performances that leave a lasting impact.Whether you’re a fan of musicals, historical dramas, or simply appreciate the art of filmmaking, “The Great Ziegfeld” is a must-watch. Its combination of spectacle, emotion, and indelible characters will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come.

FAQs

Q: When was “The Great Ziegfeld” released?

A: “The Great Ziegfeld” was released in 1936.

Q: Who directed “The Great Ziegfeld”?

A: The movie was directed by Robert Z. Leonard.

Q: Is “The Great Ziegfeld” based on a true story?

A: Yes, the film is based on the life of Florenz Ziegfeld, a real-life showman and producer.

Q: Did “The Great Ziegfeld” win any awards?

A: Yes, the film won three Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Q: Who were the main actors in “The Great Ziegfeld”?

A: William Powell portrayed Florenz Ziegfeld, and Luise Rainer played his wife, Anna Held. Myrna Loy also had a notable role in the film.

Q: How long is “The Great Ziegfeld”?

A: The runtime of the film is approximately 3 hours and 6 minutes.

Q: Is “The Great Ziegfeld” a musical?

A: Yes, the film features several musical numbers and showcases the world of Broadway theater.

Q: Can I watch “The Great Ziegfeld” online?

A: “The Great Ziegfeld” may be available for streaming on various platforms like Amazon Prime, Netflix, or Hulu. Please check your preferred streaming service for availability.