Must-See Movie: Gentlemen Prefer Blondes

Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953)
Marilyn Monroe and Jane Russell star in this musical rom/com of two showgirls who go on a cruise, just to be pursued by multiple admirers and a private detective.

Lorelei (Marilyn Monroe), the titular blonde in the film, is passionate about money (specifically diamonds), and knows that marrying a wealthy man will give her all she needs.  Lorelei is engaged to Gus, a nerdy millionaire.  She scoffs at her best friend Dorothy (Jane Russell), who prefers men who don't have money since they don't brag as much about all they possess.

Together they must travel to France to perform, but Gus warns Lorelei to behave well or he can't marry her.  Dorothy promises to act as her chaperone, and the two head off on a cruise ship.  The cruise is inundated with colorful characters, such as the entire male-only Olympics team members -- whom Dorothy is attracted to, and Sir Francis "Piggy" Beekman, the owner of a diamond mine -- who catches the eye of Lorelei.  1950's mistaken-identity-slapstick ensues, along with a few musical numbers.

Besides the iconic song "Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend," which has been parodied relentlessly since, I love this movie for the gorgeous wardrobe and the simplistic comedy.  I especially love this number that Marilyn Monroe wears as they are about to depart on their trip.  On screen, her gown is a deep navy blue, and -- since I'm obsessed with leopard print -- the ensemble with a leopard cape is DIVINE.  Once again, I wish we dressed like this, complete with gloves.

Marilyn and Jane got along well during the filming of this movie, which resonates in the picture; it actually looks like they're enjoying filming.  Too bad this was their one and only film together!