Cast
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Rita Hayworth
as Rusty Parker / Maribelle Hicks (flashback)
Gene Kelly
as Danny McGuire
Lee Bowman
as Noel Wheaton
Phil Silvers
as Genius
Jinx Falkenburg
as Jinx Falkenburg
Leslie Brooks
as Maurine Martin
Eve Arden
as Cornelia 'Stonewall' Jackson
Otto Kruger
as John Coudair
Jess Barker
as John Coudair as a Young Man
Anita Colby
as Miss Colby
Curt Bois
as Chef at Danny McGuire's
Jean Colleran
as Cover Girl: American Magazine
Francine Counihan
as Cover Girl: American Home
Helen Mueller
as Cover Girl: Collier's Magazine
Cecilia Meagher
as Cover Girl: Coronet
Crew
Director
- Charles Vidor
Writer
- Virginia Van Upp
Producer
- Arthur Schwartz
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Cover Girl represents a fascinating example of Music/Comedy/Romance cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Charles Vidor brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1944, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Cover Girl took approximately 34 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 107 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 139 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 282 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1944, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Cover Girl shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Annie: A Royal Adventure, which focuses more on action than character development, Cover Girl subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Chipmunk Adventure and Beauty and the Beast explore similar territory, Cover Girl stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: March 22, 1944
- Runtime: 1h 47m
