Harlow [Blu-ray]

It has its moments, but...
...this is a movie based on a ficticious biography by one of Harlow's first agents and thus, an inaccurate depiction of Jean's life. If you want the real story on Jean Harlow , I suggest you find two recent biographies written about Harlow within the last 5-6 years; They dispell all the myths and get to the truth. A movie was to be made in 2000 based on one of these books, but it hasn't happened yet. So, in the meantime, enjoy this 1960's escapism movie for the outlandish sets, great wardrobe and lots of soap opera drama...but, don't take it seriously because of its inaccuracy. But I will say Carroll Baker, Peter Lawford, and Angela Lansbury do the best they can with what was given them.

A Slice of the 60's
Even though this film is supposed to take place in the 30's, it's B-Movie 60's film flash all the way - a Hollywood extravagant self-indulgent look in the mirror at the old studio "star machine" complete with a pale blonde virginal starlet, great looking glitzy gowns, sexual innuendo for the times and a bachelor pad (Leslie Nielsen's)that Austin Powers would covet. It's not trying to paint an accurate picture of Jean Harlow at all. Once you get over that fact, it's pure fun to watch and enjoy.

Great Hollywood Trash
This film takes many liberties with the truth about the life & death of Jean Harlow, but it is still a fun watch from beginning to end. Carol Bakker is fabulously sexy as the over-worked, under-appreciated Jean who comes across as more of a victim of the Hollywood machine than she actually was. She plays Harlow's sexuality to the hilt (well at least as much as 1960's Hollywood would allow) and gives a meaningful performance that outshines the fluff of the material. Red Buttons is excellant as always portraying the agent who knew he could make Harlow a star. Angela Landsbury is flawless as Harlow's needy, lazy mother. Lots of fun with big bowl of buttered popcorn and a cold Pepsi!

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