Gentlemen Prefer Blondes
U
Why watch?
“Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953) is one of cinema’s great reminders that comedy, unlike base metal, does not tarnish with age. Social norms might change, and certain pop-cultural references may lose meaning, but the basic rules of humour, of expectation and subversion, remain as “forever” as diamond. It is in this pillar of the film’s monstrously lavish architecture that Marilyn Monroe’s shining brilliance as a performer is arguably best exemplified.”
Charlie Ashton,
Volunteer
Our favourite Marilyn Monroe moments on film
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.
Details
-landscape.jpg)
