Product: Star Is Born (UK PAL Region 0)
Rating: 5.0
1937 vs 1954
The 1937 version features Fedric March and Janet Gaynor as compared with the 1954 version featuring Judy Garland and James Mason. The lack of songs and dancings in the older version actually forces my attention to the two main characters. What the older version lacks - in lyrics and dancing - it more than makes up in the refined character development and superb acting. Vicki (Janet Gaynor) 's grandma could understand Vicki's dream and hope in Hollywood. Once she ensured Vicki had the conviction and was prepared to go to great lengths, without any doubt, to pursue her dream, she gave her blessings and full financial support. This was handled warmly and delicately. In addition, Norman Maine (Federich March) was 100% convincing whose leading actor career winded in the wrong direction. He spotted Vicki from obscurity and saw the rising career of his beloved wife with mixed feelings. He loved Vicki that much while suffering deeply inside. Despite the encouragement of his studio friend (Adolphe Menjou), he was too proud to take any hand outs. In the end, Vicki's grandma went to Hollywood, for the first time, and attended Vicki's film premeire - a master stroke to see both Vicki's and grandma's dream fulfilled.Fredrich March, Janet Gaynor and Adolphe Menjou were heavyweights in the big screen. I reckon the older version more warm and touching. A truly wonderful movie. In addition, Janet Gaynor was the lady who won the first Oscar for a leading actress in recognition of her work in three other films. Word has it that the script was modeled on the early life of Barbara Stanwyck and her first husband Frank Fay.