My Fair Lady, directed in 1964 by George Cukor and based on Alan J. Lerner and Frederick Loewe's 1956 musical version of George Bernard Shaw's 1913 Pygmalion, is definitely my favorite of all of the films we have watched this semester. I had seen this movie probably about five years ago and had forgotten how much I loved it. I know that I will definitely watch the film again! The overall effectiveness of the film was spectacular.
The costumes to the set designs to the musical compositions left the audience pleading for more. From the very beginning, the scenes were very elaborate with great costumes. My Fair Lady portrayed the wealthy class versus the poverty class very well. The very first scene of the ladies and gentlemen walking down the stairs with their beautiful dresses and fancy hats amazed me; at the same time, I was just as amazed at the carts, small fires, and clothes presented by the poor class.
My favorite song would have to be "Wouldn't It Be Lovely," sung by Marni Nixon and lip-synched by Audrey Hepburn, playing the character of Eliza Doolittle. I sometimes still find myself singing that song. The musical presentations were spectacular! The dancing and interaction with props enhanced the musical even more.
Not only were the costumes, set designs, and musical compositions breathtaking, but also the chemistry of the characters on screen added even more to the film. The chemistry between Eliza (Audrey Hepburn) and Henry Higgins (Rex Harrison) was perfect. Eliza taking a bath, while Higgins was reacting in another room, for the first time was hysterical. Eliza was thoroughly entertaining. Also, her father, Mr. Doolittle (Stanley Holloway), was magical on screen. His song "Get Me to the Church on Time" filled the entire audience with laughter and joy.
However, the best part of the entire film is evident when Eliza finally got to make her debut at the ball. She was absolutely breathtaking, and the prince asked to dance with her. I felt the whole purpose of the movie was fulfilled. It showed that simple girls can change their lives and make their dreams come true. I also loved the way, after Henry did not show her any appreciation, she left and stood her ground with him. One could completely see how Eliza had changed from a simple flower girl to a woman of grace and dignity.
Each of the characters shined throughout the picture. I would highly recommend this film to anyone who would not mind adding a little fun to his or her life. I have complete faith that this film will remain to be a timeless treasure.