Three women set out to find eligible millionaires to marry, but find true love in the process.
How to Marry a Millionaire (1953) is a classic romantic comedy that follows three models—Schatze Page (Lauren Bacall), Pola Debevoise (Marilyn Monroe), and Loco Dempsey (Betty Grable)—as they embark on a mission to secure wealthy husbands. Pooling their resources, they rent a luxurious New York City penthouse, aiming to attract affluent suitors. Each woman has her own strategy: Schatze, the pragmatic leader, seeks a man of means; Pola, who is visually impaired but refuses to wear glasses, relies on her charm; and Loco, the naive optimist, is open to love in any form.
Their plans encounter complications when they each become romantically involved with men who do not meet their financial expectations. Schatze falls for J. D. Hanley (William Powell), a wealthy widower who is not as rich as he appears. Pola becomes enamored with Tom Brookman (Cameron Mitchell), a man she believes to be a millionaire but is actually a modestly paid architect. Loco’s relationship with a young man named Freddie Denmark (Rory Calhoun) leads her to question her superficial desires.
As the story unfolds, each woman confronts her preconceived notions about wealth and love. The film concludes with the realization that genuine affection and companionship are more valuable than material wealth. The models’ journey from superficial aspirations to authentic relationships offers a humorous yet insightful commentary on societal values and personal growth.
Main Themes
- Materialism vs. Genuine Affection
The film critiques the pursuit of wealth as the primary basis for relationships, highlighting the emptiness of materialism and the fulfillment found in genuine love and companionship.
- Self-Discovery and Personal Growth
Each character undergoes a journey of self-discovery, challenging their initial beliefs and evolving into more self-aware individuals who value authenticity over superficial desires.
- Gender Roles and Expectations
The narrative examines the societal pressures on women to secure financial stability through marriage, questioning traditional gender roles and the expectations placed upon women in the mid-20th century.
- Friendship and Solidarity
Despite their individual pursuits, the bond between the three women remains strong, illustrating the importance of friendship and mutual support in navigating life’s challenges.
- Perception vs. Reality
The film explores how appearances can be deceiving, with characters learning that initial perceptions of wealth and status often do not align with reality.
- Romantic Idealism
The story delves into the idealization of romance and the realization that true love often defies initial expectations and societal norms.
- Economic Class and Social Mobility
The narrative touches on themes of social class, highlighting the characters’ aspirations to elevate their status through marriage and the societal barriers they encounter.
Impact of the Movie
Upon its release, How to Marry a Millionaire was a commercial success, becoming one of the highest-grossing films of 1953. Its innovative use of CinemaScope technology showcased the film’s visual appeal, particularly in the portrayal of New York City. The film’s blend of humor, romance, and social commentary resonated with audiences, solidifying its status as a classic in the romantic comedy genre.
Critically, the film received mixed reviews. Some praised its charming performances and witty dialogue, while others criticized its superficial treatment of themes like materialism and gender roles. Despite these critiques, the film has endured over the decades, often cited for its stylish direction and the iconic performances of its leading ladies.
7 Reasons to Watch How to Marry a Millionaire (1953)
- Iconic Performances by Leading Ladies
- Lauren Bacall, Marilyn Monroe, and Betty Grable deliver memorable performances, each bringing a unique charm to their respective roles. Their chemistry and comedic timing are central to the film’s appeal.
- Monroe’s portrayal of Pola, in particular, showcases her comedic talent and screen presence, adding depth to the film’s humor.
- Witty and Engaging Script
- The screenplay is filled with sharp dialogue and humorous situations that keep the audience entertained throughout. The banter between characters adds a delightful layer to the narrative.
- The film’s humor is both sophisticated and accessible, appealing to a wide range of viewers.
- Stunning Cinematography and Use of CinemaScope
- As one of the first films shot in CinemaScope, it offers expansive and visually captivating scenes, particularly of New York City. The cinematography enhances the storytelling by providing a rich visual experience.
- The use of color and composition adds to the film’s aesthetic appeal, making it a visual treat.
- Timeless Themes with Contemporary Relevance
- The exploration of materialism, love, and self-discovery remains relevant, offering insights into human nature and societal values. The film encourages viewers to reflect on their own perceptions of wealth and relationships.
- Its commentary on gender roles and expectations provides a thought-provoking perspective on societal norms.
- Charming Romantic Plot
- The film presents a delightful romantic storyline that is both heartwarming and humorous, appealing to fans of classic romantic comedies. The evolving relationships keep the audience engaged.
- The romantic entanglements are portrayed with a lighthearted touch, making them enjoyable to watch.
- Cultural Snapshot of 1950s America
- The film offers a glimpse into the fashion, social dynamics, and urban life of 1950s New York, serving as a cultural artifact of the era. It provides context for the societal attitudes and lifestyles of the time.
- The depiction of the cityscape and its landmarks adds authenticity to the setting, immersing viewers in the period.
- Enduring Entertainment Value
- How to Marry a Millionaire remains a timeless source of entertainment, offering both humor and romance that continue to captivate audiences today. Its light-hearted nature makes it an enjoyable watch for those seeking a feel-good film that also offers subtle commentary on societal values.
- The film’s enduring popularity is a testament to its charm, with its iconic performances, stylish direction, and timeless themes ensuring it remains a favorite among classic movie enthusiasts.
How Will You Feel After Watching How to Marry a Millionaire (1953)?
After watching How to Marry a Millionaire, you will likely feel uplifted and entertained, with a sense of satisfaction from the film’s witty humor and heartwarming conclusion. The charming performances by Bacall, Monroe, and Grable will leave you with a sense of admiration for their comedic timing and screen presence. You’ll also appreciate the film’s exploration of love, materialism, and personal growth, as it offers a light-hearted yet meaningful reflection on the values that shape human relationships.
The movie’s conclusion, where the characters realize that genuine love is more fulfilling than wealth, will leave you with a warm, contented feeling. You may also reflect on the film’s timeless themes, which remain relevant in today’s society. Its portrayal of friendship, self-discovery, and romance will likely resonate with you, offering both entertainment and thoughtful insight into the complexities of love and societal expectations.