Cast
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Betty Grable
as Julie Lowndes
Jack Lemmon
as Martin 'Marty' Stewart
Marge Champion
as Gwen Howard
Gower Champion
as Vernon Lowndes
Myron McCormick
as Mike Hudson
Robert Bice
as Sgt. Charlie O'Hallihan
Paul Harvey
as Col. Harold J. Wharton
Bess Flowers
as Theatre patron in loge
Henry Slate
as Sgt. Kowalski
Johnny Brazil
as Male Harem Dancer
Ettore Corving
as Male Harem Dancer
Mario Groscup
as Male Harem Dancer
Joe Mauric
as Male Harem Dancer
Wilson Morelli
as Male Harem Dancer
Ron Nyman
as Male Harem Dancer
Crew
Director
- H. C. Potter
Writer
- Leonard B. Stern
- Edward Hope
Producer
- Jonie Taps
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Three for the Show represents a fascinating example of Music/Comedy 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 H. C. Potter 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 1955, 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 Three for the Show took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 93 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 153 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1106 individual shots.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1955, when this film was released:
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- 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 Three for the Show shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Dirty Dancing, which focuses more on action than character development, Three for the Show offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Pretty Woman and The Satellite Girl and Milk Cow explore similar territory, Three for the Show stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: February 24, 1955
- Runtime: 1h 33m
Where to Watch
