Blonde Venus (1932)

I thought this was a touching film and signature film. Marlene Dietrich is able to combine feminine sensuality and masculine coldness (geez, could I be more narrow with my gender descriptions). In essence she’s mesmerizing; her stage presence is magnificent, no wonder so many female actresses hold her in high regard.
Blonde Venus also stars Cary Grant. And if you are in any way familiar with how I judge a Cary Grant picture you’d think, oh boy here she goes again raving about Mr CG, but you’re in for a twist. While Cary Grant was fabulous in the role he depicted, this film is not about him, it is rather about Marlene’s character. It was also a bit of an obstacle for me to watch Cary Grant because Marlene is someone who locks all eyes on herself, but Cary made for some great “two shots”, as I paid a couple grand at school to learn, haha. As I just looked up, Blonde Venus came out the year Cary Grant was first in the pictures. From my observations he does not have that knack yet that won me over as a fan for life. In other words, he’s only a boy in this film. His character is noble, but he didn’t have the flare and pizzazz that his characters in Notorious or His Girl Friday. He’s too gentle in Blonde Venus, but it’s a good start.
The film itself is moving because of its subject matter. The scenes when Marlene is torn up because of her child, you can’t help but want to help her out.
The scene with Marlene in the white suit and top hat is awesome, she has a great voice. I recommend this film as one to definitely see for general film knowledge. The story, without giving anything away, is also strong; if only they were still made that way.