The Great Ziegfeld

Synopsis

The Great Ziegfeld is a lavish biographical film that follows the rise of legendary showman Florenz Ziegfeld Jr., played by William Powell. With a dynamic mix of glamour, drama, and music, the movie explores Ziegfeld's journey from struggling promoter to becoming a Broadway sensation. As he creates spectacular theatrical productions like the Ziegfeld Follies, he navigates through love, success, and personal challenges. The film captures the essence of the dazzling showbiz world of the early 20th century, showcasing the larger-than-life personality and ambition of Ziegfeld in a visually stunning and engaging narrative.

Cast

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  William Powell

  Florenz 'Flo' Ziegfeld Jr.

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  Myrna Loy

  Billie Burke

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  Luise Rainer

  Anna Held

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  Frank Morgan

  Billings

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  Fanny Brice

  Fannie Brice

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  Virginia Bruce

  Audrey Dane

Reviews

The Great Ziegfeld has received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its grand spectacle and performances while others critiqued its lengthy runtime. Rotten Tomatoes gives it a 71% rating, stating that the film 'dazzles with its extravagant production values'. IMDb rates it 6.6/10, with users praising William Powell's charismatic portrayal of Ziegfeld. Metacritic gives it a score of 69/100, highlighting the film's impressive musical numbers and sets. The Hollywood Reporter commends the film for its opulence and historical significance, calling it 'a visually stunning tribute to a showbiz legend'. However, New York Times criticizes the film for its excessive length, stating that it 'loses momentum in its lengthy sequences'. Overall, The Great Ziegfeld is a fascinating glimpse into the life of a showbiz icon, blending spectacle with drama in an engaging narrative.