More Gorgeous Portraits: Dvorak & Cagney in “The Crowd Roars”
On August 1, 2013 by Christina Rice With 5 Comments
- Collection Spotlight
Year of Ann Dvorak: Day 213
I am still proofing the proofs, so here’s a lovely shot of Ann Dvorak & James Cagney in The Crowd Roars to get you through your Thursday.
Cheers!
This photo and tonite’s TCM screening of “The Big Sleep” had me thinking about Howard Hawks and his justified reputation as a “starmaker”. He discovered and directed Lauren Bacall & Montgomery Clift in their remarkable debuts, and players such as Carole Lombard, Rita Hayworth & Angie Dickinson saw their careers take off after appearances in his films. In addition, already established stars like Rosalind Russell, Jean Arthur, Katherine Hepburn & Ann Sheridan are among the actresses who had signature roles in his movies.
I would say Ann fits into the category of having her career reach a higher level thanks to Hawks and “Scarface”. Too bad her role in “The Crowd Roars” didn’t take advantage of the buzz that she created in the earlier film. Ultimately, she didn’t quite ascend to the level of stardom that some of these other Hawksian gals enjoyed, but at least she fared better than June Travis or Margaret Sheridan or Frances Farmer.
After every viewing of “The Big Sleep”, I still wonder why Martha Vickers didn’t become a star. She is absolutely terrific as Bacall’s loony sister.
I trust that Ann’s personal and professional relationship with the “Grey Fox” will be discussed in the much anticipated bio.
Why yes, yes they will be!
One last comment about “The Big Sleep” (and no offense intended) – but the young Dorothy Malone (sans glasses) – that’s my dream image of a librarian.
A dream librarian should be one who provides relevant information in a quick and courteous manner! (Says the librarian.)
Watched “The Big Sleep” last night, as well. Never miss it. Couldn’t agree more about Martha Vickers’ performance in it. As well as with Mike’s sentiments concerning the young Dorothy Malone.
But if you remember how the scene with Bogie and Dorothy plays out in the film, she appears to provide him something more than just ‘relevant information’.
Wink, wink.
Now THAT is a dream librarian!