Gigi is a 1958 American musical romantic comedy film directed by Vincente Minnelli and processed using Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer's Eastmancolor film process Metrocolor. The screenplay by Alan Jay Lerner is based on the 1944 novella of the same name by Colette. The film features songs with lyrics by Lerner and music by Frederick Loewe, arranged and conducted by André Previn. It won all nine of its nominations at the 31st Academy Awards, including Best Picture. The film is set in Paris, France, and is adapted from a French novella by Colette. It is known for its charming and flawlessly acted performances, as well as its visually and musically appealing elements.
Plot
The story follows a Parisian girl named Gigi (played by Leslie Caron) who is raised to be a kept woman but dreams of love and marriage. She forms a platonic friendship with a restless Parisian playboy named Gaston (played by Louis Jourdan. As Gigi matures, their relationship changes, but the possibility of something lasting seems unlikely since he won't commit to one woman. Gigi refuses to be anyone's mistress, and Gaston must choose between her and his carefree lifestyle.
Trailer
Director: Vincente Minnelli
Writer: Alan Jay Lerner, Colette
Box Office Gross: $7.3 million
Distributor: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Genre: Musical
Release Date (Theaters): May 15, 1958
Release Date (Streaming): Apr 19, 2016
Cast
- Leslie Caron as Gigi
- Louis Jourdan as Gaston Lachaille
- Maurice Chevalier as Honoré Lachaille
- Hermione Gingold as Madame Alvarez
- Eva Gabor as Liane d'Extras
Themes & Reception
The themes of "Gigi" (1958) include love, romance, and the conventions of Parisian society at the turn of the century. The film was well-received by audiences and critics alike, winning all nine of its nominations at the 31st Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Song ("Gigi").
The film is known for its charming and flawlessly acted performances, visually and musically appealing elements, and memorable tunes such as "I Remember It Well," "Thank Heaven for Little Girls," and "Waltz at Maxim's". The film's art direction, production design, and costume design were also praised for their vibrant colors and lush definition.
Trivia
One interesting piece of trivia about the film "Gigi" (1958) is that the song "Gigi" from the movie won the Oscar for Best Original Song in 1958. The music was composed by Frederick Loewe, with lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner, and it was performed by Louis Jourdan.
Fun Fact
One fun fact about the film "Gigi" (1958) is that the leading lady, Leslie Caron, remains as charming as ever even after 65 years after the film's release.