Gentlemen Prefer Blondes

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Lorelei Lee (Marilyn Monroe) and Dorothy Shaw (Jane Russell) are two glamorous cabaret performers and best friends on a cruise to Paris. Lorelei is engaged to Gus, a mild-mannered millionaire, while wisecracking Dorothy wants to marry purely for love. Gus’ sceptical father hires a private detective to assess Lorelei’s attentions, but a few diamonds - and an unexpected romance - create complications. 

Thanks to showstopping musical numbers and iconic wardrobe by William Travilla, ‘Gentlemen Prefer Blondes’ was an all-time classic on release. Marilyn Monroe shines as cinema’s quintessential dumb blonde who’s anything but. In 2026, audiences can relish its satirical observations on gender politics, which remain sharp 70 years later.

This screening will be accompanied by a burlesque performance by Birmingham’s bombshell, Mimi Mariama. In addition to being an esteemed member of award-winning collective House of Allure, Mimi is a recent finalist of Burlesque Idol 2025. Inspired by glamorous women of all eras, she brings classic showgirl energy combined with a raw sensuality and devilish wit.

This event is brought to you by Film Quarry and Green Carnation Film Club, as part of Hyde Park Picture House’s celebration of the centenary of Marilyn Monroe’s birth.