~ Curious Charlie ~

High Society - 1956 Musical @ Wednesday, June 04, 2014

The other week we saw 'High Society' (1956) on tv, why is it that the great old films never play during/right after prime time? It was on around 2am, and had lots of adult ads during breaks.

Set amongst the rich and famous in Newport, RI, the story revolves around the wedding plans of socialite Tracy Lord (Grace Kelly). Tracy is all set to marry stuffy George Kittridge (John Lund), while magazine writer Mike Connor (Frank Sinatra) and photographer Liz Imbrie (Celeste Holm) intend to cover the ceremony. Meanwhile, Tracy's ex-husband C.K. Dexter-Haven (Bing Crosby) also comes calling, ostensibly to the attend the annual Newport Jazz Festival, but actually for the purpose of winning Tracy back. In the course of events, Mike falls in love with Tracy, and she with him.

No idea what year it's set in, but after the civil war and before the roaring 20s? They have a telephone, cars, electricity. 1900s? I haven't seen these dress styles before.

High Society stars Grace Kelly, she's 27 (actor age) and stunning, also very tall!

It was her last film before she became Princess of Monaco.

I do think the timing (date) of this movie is related to another.

Her house, particularly living room and pool are stunning, in a Malibu Barbie way.

Was the set inspired by a doll house? I see Barbie living here.

Has anyone seen a Grace Kelly Barbie Collector's Ed. doll?

In this scene with Bing Crosby, who plays her ex-husband, an amazing singer, Grace as Tracey wears a lovely cover-up that looks Greek inspired, just picture what the muses wear.

It's simple but stunning on her.

A modern-ish version. Needs a matching headpiece.

Under the cover-up she wears a backless swimsuit with pleats.

This scene is so fake, though it was the 50s, you can tell that the sea is a separate scene, though they did use a fan for that breeze. Where did this hat come from in the 50s? Fascinating because today we can buy it for less than $5 on ebay, but there was no ebay in the 50s.

Frank Sinatra! Earlier before in the film he sings "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?". Though in this scene he gets to know Tracey, and likes her. Though ultimately ends up with his co-worker (photographer) though they weren't into each other the whole or even part of the way? Sinatra plays Mike, a reporter, together with Liz the photographer they're covering Tracey's wedding for a newspaper/magazine. Something she doesn't approve of. - I'd be delighted though!

Frank Sinatra & Bing Crosby - an amazing duo, though I read that Bing didn't like Frank. :(

Guy on the trumpet is Louis Armstrong, so many amazing singers in this film!

Music scored by Cole Porter (he does musicals).

Tracey's wedding dress is lovely, though to me it's for a garden tea?

Oh wow full on flash...

Tracey's Wedding Dress

A Summary.

What year do you think this is set in?

Have you seen 'High Society' or any good old films?