Review of Gigi (1958) by Mike M — 24 Dec 2009

Underwhelming turn-of-the-20th-century class commentary about a young Parisian girl trying to find love in society's upper crust.

Gigi's nine Oscars, including Best Picture, look less value for money these days for indeed there's much to consider: Gigi's lack of identity; the idealised class divisions; and the fact Gigi has been groomed for one purpose -- to be a wealthy man's mistress. The leading man does the right thing in the end and wins the girl, but we can't help thinking he'll be with another mistress in six months time.

All of this is compounded by the fact the musical numbers are well-crafted but hardly uplifting, Gigi may represent the final hurrah of Hollywood's rose-coloured view of European grace and manners.