Finding Ginger

In my period of uselessness....

2010-05-24T10:55:00.006+01:00

Some other wonderful people on facebook have tracked down some Ginger pics that I haven't seen before, so I thought I'd post em here for y'all to enjoy who don't have facebook!For whatever reason, the images wont shrink to fit, so click to see the whole picture!
Ginger and Deanna Durbin, looking lovely in black.
Ginger with Perry Como at a Radio recording, looking cute and '50s in an up-do and massive skirt!

And while this is a familiar set up, I just love the facial expressions from bothe her and Levant of the set of 'Barkleys'

And finally, a super cute shot of her being surprised by Jimmy Stewart with a camera, outside what is preumably the 'Ginger Rogers' dressing room on the RKO lot. They look so happy (I still secretly wish they'd got married!).

Keep it Gingery y'all.
XX

Mortality/Eternity

2010-04-26T01:53:00.003+01:00

So there are 7 minutes of the anniversary of Ginger's death left here in the UK. I remembered her by watching for the first time 'Upperworld', the only film in which Ginger's character dies. I have been waiting for the appropriate time to watch this, and this seemed perfect.

I don't really want to add too much to this post, partially as there are only now 5 minutes remaining, but partially because while today is a celebration of the time Miss Rogers spent here, I feel it's a quieter occasion.

So this is what I've to say.

Thank you. For the moments of joy you afford each of us, for your legacy, for the sacrifice of much of your life to the service of others. But most of all, thank you for remaining true to yourself, there were those who hated you for it, there are those who never understood it, but for maintaining joy, integrity and pride in what you did, there is yet to be your equal.

On this day, know that we remember you.

And that we will keep on keeping it Gingery.

Beth XX

Older Ginger [5 a day]

2010-03-04T23:55:00.009Z

Proving you can age gracefully in Hollywood!

Although even Ginger couldn't pull off the 1980s! Good lord, look at the sleeves!

Miss Ginger the Fashionista [5 a day]

2010-03-03T21:03:00.007Z

Because this lovely lady knew how to dress!

5 a day!

2010-03-02T01:25:00.009Z

To begin a candid publicity shot from 'Don't bet on Love' to set the mood!

Well if nothing else my current insomnia is getting my posting more frequent! As mentioned yesterday, I recently unearthed a stash of pics I found over the summer. Now this being a while back I can't remember what I posted. Also given my absence for a few months, others may have posted these already... so if they are duplicates, I hope you'll forgive me and enjoy the Ginger goddess nonetheless!

Format, I've decided to give y'all 5 a day, in the fashion of fruits and vegetables... a healthy serving of Gingery goodness to keep the blues away! They seem for the most part to fall in to sets, Ginger and sport, Ginger in fashion, beauty shots Ginger and friends, Ginger and pets, Ginger and food etc! So I'll post one at a time.... starting today with....

GINGER IN THE SUN... you see its the first sunny warm day of the year in England and I'm hoping the sun may be inspired to stay out!

And hell, I'll throw in a sixth which I'm sure y'all have seen but I love too much to miss!

Stay healthy!

Beth XX

So haven't posted in a while... [lent, flapperdoodles and Bones]

2010-03-01T00:46:00.009Z

As I have been having a pretty uneventful life of late! When scouring my external hard drive I came across a folder of pictures of Ginger I found at the end of the summer, some of which I'm fairly sure I haven't shared, so shall be posting these as I find the time! Here's hoping I'm not just duplicating photos found in my absence. I love the one above!

But anyway, decided to regale you with a few tales of Beth which relate (somewhat vaguely) to Ginger.

To begin with... LENT! Taking inspiration from Ginger, have given up alcohol for let. NOwthis may seem a non-issue to many of you, but as a student, ye olde beer/vodka composes a large part of our diet here in the UK. So am thus far avoiding peer-pressure and following Gingers teetotality... if thats not already a word... I coin it!

Secondly, building on earlier figure skating post... those of you who haven't already should check out the original and free routines of the couples that finished first and second in the ice dance, Canadian, Moir and Virtue (specially their original) and that Phantom free routine of the americans... STUNNING!

Valentines was unremarkable except for some super cute Valentines I ordered from Kate Gabrielle's flapperdoodle site! If you haven't already head across and have a look at her art... she does theses adorable cartoon flappers, and also has a range of classic movie inspired stuff. As a young artist she needs all the help we can give and her work deserves to be seen, its all super quirky and to steal a word "spiffy"
http://flapperdoodle.blogspot.com/
There's the link... go on... you wont regret it!

And finally, somethng I'm suprised I haven't already bored you with. Since before Christmas I've been a little bit hooked on the TV show 'Bones'. Now I'm not exactly sure why I love it so much, I just adore the mix of characters, the way the leads (Emily Deschanel/David Boreanaz) have a chemistry that could burn down buildings, combined with some pretty excellent scripting, fun supporting cast and high levels of interest plotwise... you get the picture! Also, Bones is not about sex for the most part, which is something I find kinda wearing on TV, so its a nice change to see genuine loving relationships without having the physical thrust in our faces. Anyway... I LOVE IT, and I was struck today when rewatching an episode that Bones (Deschanel) may have the best eyes in the world since Ginger. Indeed, hers are the colour I imagine Ginger's to be when I see her in black and white (Though actually Ginger's are a wee bit darker). The physical resemblance goes no further, but of modern TV, she is certainly my favourite leading lady!

Not always obviously pretty, Emily has stunning bone structure, and is in my opinion quirkily very beautiful, not mentrion actually a normal dress size! Also, very driven and motivated to stand up for what she believes in (Vegan Animal rightsy stuff). In a Gingery fashion, she's pretty diversely talented good singer,sportsy ( no jokes has some mad trapeze skills!), not to mention a pretty spiffy dresser (with a deal of 30s/40s inspiration) so another Beth inspiration! Ginger does of course trump her, but having a living actress I enjoy watching does have it's perks!

Thats's pretty much it, and not really Ginger related but I figured I'd let you know whats happening in my life... any other Ginger and bones fans??

Ginger Torvill and Fred Dean

2010-02-12T12:16:00.004Z

So here's something you mayn't know about me... when I was a wee lass, I was OBSESSED with figure skating, I wanted to skate so badly. But the nearest rink was far far away and the whole thing was expensive. SO my mother sent me dancing instead as this was cheaper ( she also sent me to improve my spatial awareness... I was the clumsiest child ever, but thats a story for another day!). Anyway, I still like to watch figure skating, even though I've since forgiven my mother for this early travesty. SO Iwas youtubing some of the teams for the WInter Olympics (woop!!) and came upon this link.

I'm guessing some of you may have heard of Torvill and Dean, one of the most famous Ice Dance pairs ever, and pretty much the only famous British skaters! They won gold in the 1984 WInter Olympics with the first and only perfect score, 12 6.0s! (Their routine Bolero is worth a recce if you've a few minutes to spare, stunning!). But the point of this increasingly longwinded post is as follows.

After the '84 Olympics, Torvill and Dean went pro, and choreographed numerous fantastic ice dance shows. In one they paid tribute to our very own Fred and Ginger, which is the video I came across.

The quality is pretty awful, but I love the music combo they use (Change Partners eeee!) It lovely to see a tribute to the wonderful pair in a different genre, even if they don't entirely capture the essence, any exposure and worship of the classics is good in my book. They manage some on ice tapping which is pretty difficult, Also they do rather a simiilar thing to the lifts at the end of the Yam, towards the end, which I thought was nice! Amusingly, Torvill's feather dress can be seen to shed rather excessively during the Cheek to Cheek section

So here's the video...

Hope this was of interest to some of you! They also tried a second time with a "Putting on the Ritz number, in which I think they're actually more in the style of Fred and Ginger though it's up tempo and shorter.

I enjoyed writing this post, looking forward o the olympics!
Keep it Gingery

Beth XX

Photoshooting, vintage stylee (well partly!)

2010-02-03T19:04:00.009Z

Last week I got the opportunity to go and have some professional photos shot for free (lucky me!). I got to shoot three outfits and wanted to show various sides of myself, so here's what's what!

Of course Ginger was gonna impact on my look, had a nice chat with the makeup lady about managing my curls, in to more of a thirties style, but keeping it me-ish. She said she was just relieved I didn't want Cheryl Cole hair, as she's already done that 5 times that morning!! Make-upwise I originally thought, I'll go all forties glamour, but then when I chose my outfits, it didnt seem right to wear such heavy make-up. In the end, I asked for, forties movie star on a day off, just to highlight my eyes rather than really make them up, and for a bolder than natural lip colour, but not a bright red, as being a pale skinned creature, this makes me look vampiric. Here's a resulting headshot.

Outfit wise, I went for one vintage look, with a dress I found in a charity shop, seamed stockings, red midheels which are modern but vintage in style and this cutesy necklace I got for christmas.

Then I went for a more eveningy look with a dress my mamma got me for Christmas, which I love, and some killer heels I found in the sales, I have a major shoe lust going on at the moment, and needed an excuse to break these babies out. In the end, I didn't like a lot of these pictures as the photographer made me pose in ways that weren't commfortable, and it showed in my face.

Lastly I wanted to do a more casual look, so I wore a chose a huge sweater from Topshop, Black tights, and some '40s kid style flats I picked up in a vintage shop in London, these are probably some of my favourite shots!
All of course topped with my signature hair ribbon! If anyone stuck with this rather epic post, then thanks for reading!

Hopefully shall be back soon with something exciting and Gingery to say...

Beth XX

Finding Beth...

2010-01-13T02:33:00.003Z

Having read the responses to my prior post, I'm here to in form all y'all who read, or have at one point read my Gingerised blog adventure, that things are going to change a bit.

I started this blog because I wanted to share my hunt for Ginger with others who love her as I do, and for the most part, we succeeded in finding her. BUt you can't search for ever, so this blog is going to have to take a new direction.

You see, I can tell you what I think of Ginger, which can pretty much be summed up in the word 'swell', and I can tell you all about her films and facts and the whole wonderful shebang, but to be honest, you can read/watch the latter yourself, and the first is a limited field. So from now onwards, I'm going to post more broadly, and talk about myself more; the things that Ginger has taught me, other films, other aspects of life, etc. If that's not what you signed on for, then I hope you find something that is, and thanks for reading. But I have faith in the blogging community, that your interest in what I have to say is more than just looking for another source of Ginger worship.

My blog will remain dedicated to Miss Ginger Rogers, as she remains my inspiration, and I shall post as much of her as I can. But wonderful as she is, I can't let Ginger, or anyone else limit me, and Finding Ginger, should never get in the way of Ffinding myself. My blog will remain vintage in spirit, Gingerish all over, but from this moment, will be Beth at heart.

XX

The only way to enjoy anything in life is to earn it first

2010-01-07T16:06:00.003Z

It's been a very long time since I posted anything and I decided the time had come to face the fact. This is and isn't about Ginger so apologies for the large injection of Beth in this post.

Since I've been at university, a lot has changed, my expectations of other people, what I do with my time and how I view the world. I really don't like this change, because of all the things that have been lost, the things which made me me, my dancing, my friends, my family have all very much changed roles or vanished altogether. Over christmas, I realised how much I'd changed, and how little I liked who I had become, I stopped watching Ginger films because I had noone to watch with, and people found it strange, also because it was unbearable to see someone so happy, dancing when it had all been taken from me.

So this new year, 2010, 99 years since Virginia Katherine McMath arrived, I decided to turn things about. Now I can't promise to blog with the regularity that my empty summer allowed, but I'm promising this, to anyone who cares, from now onwards, I'll post as often as I have something to say.... and hopefully this will help in my personal remodelling!

SO I shall begin in week one of 2010, by saying this

OBSERVATION - In Bachelor mother, Ginger has normal eyebrows. Now I know this sounds highly bizarre but rather than the pencilled on ones of the Fred and Ginger, early ginger etc, she has fairly natural blonde eyebrows. I noticed this on watching on NYE, and believe it to be a rare if not unique phenomenon! SO on that bizarre note, I shall be off. XX

Fred, Cary, David, Douglas, Dennis, Jimmy or Norman??

2009-10-08T17:23:00.010+01:00

It's been a while, and I miss the chats we used to have over these... so here goes with

"Favourite Ginger Rogers Leading Man"

There were a lot of these obviously, so I shortened the list based on my preferences and noted films. If you feel any worthy candidate has been missed, comment!!

The options are as follows

1. Fred Astaire

Could not be overlooked. 10 wonderful toe tapping musical extravaganzas make Fred Ginger's most frequent and most famous leading man.... but is he your favourite??

2. Cary Grant

Ginger and this lovely chap had quite a story, really I wish they'd just got married but was not to be! Working toether later in Ginger's career for Monkey Business and Once Upon a Honeymoon. Quite some chemistry!

3. David Niven

Ginger and David were never romantically invilved, which is a fairly rare occurrence if you think about it! Working together three times, does Mr Niven's boyish charm and comedic value make him a winner??

4. Jimmy Stewart

All I can say is what a pairing! Little and large, ligh and dark, SHE SHOULD HAVE MARRIED HIM TOOO! I seem to have become rather opionated!

5. Douglas Fairbanks Jr.

Another non-romantic leading man! Sadly these two only made one film together "Having Wonderful Time", but oh boy don't the sparks fly on eagle rock in the dark.... it's the only time backgammon ever sounded romantic!

6. Norman Foster

Ginger made a few films with Norman, and I always feel there's a certain charm to the pairing. The boat scene in Rafter Romance is so deliciously romantic that to not include Mr Foster seemed stingy.

7. Dennis Morgan
Two words and one number, Wynnewood Strafford VI. Of course there's also Perfect Strangers, but the fact is Kitty and Wyn should have been together!!!

Get voting.... I'm still choosing but swinging Between Jimmy Stewart and Cary Grant, for me the real life romance is a clincher!!

Beth xx

On copyright!! (This is a humorous post)

2009-10-06T12:11:00.003+01:00

Havin returned to find my little catch phrase "Keep it Gingery" a VKMwide phenomena I have been advised to copyright said phrase! This however seemed mean, so instead, I propose the following,

An oath to Ginger must be made, upon which each oathmaker may use the Gingery phrase at their discretion!

Please pledge the following,

I, the undersigned, do solemnly pledge to love Virginia Katherine McMath until age or infirmity rob me of all bodily functions. I hereby swear to promote Gingeryness in the wider community by gabbling on the subject to anyone who expresses a slight interest, and watching as many films as I can fit in to my life. Furthermore,I will fight the injustice by which her name appears only as an attachment to that of Fred Astaire. On June 16th I swear to wear something pink and eat ice cream, in Ginger's memory.

This I do swear, on pain of death at the hand of Lottie Marin!

Signed

Beth Stephens

There we go!

I am officially the perpetrator of this contract, so any questions should be directed to me!

Keep it Gingery

Beth xx

Gingering up my room, converting flatmates, and being sorely missed!

2009-10-05T16:26:00.008+01:00

Is what I've mainly been up to! The posting drought has been somewhat severe, as I've been very busy settling in and making things beautiful!

Of course my room has generous helpings of VKM, but I had to tidy it before I could delight you all with pictures!!

So without further ado I introduce part 1... Gingering up my room!

Deviating from typical student "posterization" I got some massive Gingerpics printed, framed them and now have one over my bed, and one where I can see it as I wake up!!

This combined with my extensive Ginger DVD rack makes me feel fairly at home!!

I've been raving to my flatmates already about the thirties, musicals and of course Ginger and have so far managed to organize a flat screening of the Major and the Minor/Swingtime for next week.... I've been suprised how many people are interested, slightly concerned they may simply be humoring me though!!

Anyway, to summarise, hopefully I shall be able to post on a regular basis again, hope you missed bu obscure rambling,

Keep it gingery,

Beth XX

Today I learned the charleston...

2009-09-16T22:26:00.004+01:00

I finally persuaded my dance teacher to teach us the charleston... and I was easily the best, I even threw in a couple of moves from that deleted Roxie HArt scene and the I Love Lucy Clip.... I'm sure Ginger would have been proud!

The header picture is the beginning of an idea. I want a new header, and my plan is to use the one of GInger escaping the car, and cleverly photo impose the rest of the car, and on the otherside of the car, me, all decked out in my 30s gear, magnifying glass in hand as though I'm actually "Finding Ginger". I'm quite excited and am currently trying to find a car that wont look to hideously out of keeping with the rest of the picture... let me know what you think!

Beth xx

Long time, no post.... Ginger's accordion?!

2009-09-14T16:55:00.004+01:00

Life's been rather busy over in the Uk, following a fairly horrendous grounding in which wireless network was turned off, I am now in the midst of a college packing frenzy, computer changing shenanigans, and a whole load of emotional goodbyes. Anyway, I apologise for my lengthy absence. I have all sorts of wonderful things planned during my absence which I will try to post in between farewell lunches and file transfers, but for now....

I found this interesting picture of Ginger whicle browsing google for suitable Ginger pics to have posterised

Now as far as I know, Ginger never played the accordion, so imagine my suprise to see Ginger on a list of well known accordionists on the "Noted accordion Players" page of the Western New York Accordian club! I'm guessing it was a publicity shot and that the "NY accordian club" found it and got a bit confused.... otherwise Ginger had a secret talent for the accordian which she failed to mention, well, anywhere! What do we think - discuss?

Missed you all

Beth xx

PS - Congratualtions to jw on his baby son - check out pics over on Gingerology!

A day for pictures, and a call for last votes!

2009-08-20T08:14:00.007+01:00

Another insane week in Beth land with college admissions and theater trips going in to overdrive. I've only had the chance to watch two Ginger films so far.... but on the plus.... I think I'm converting my sister!! So here are some more pictures for you. A quick heads up for you all to check out a picture of "Bearded Lady" Ginger over at Maggies Film Journal.

Here goes with some new Gingerpic findings!

More to follow shortly when I finally get my life in order. Thoough I do currently have some exciting news.... the elusive fourteen has dwindled to six!! I have found all but six of Gingers films and am very very very excited!!

Also went to see "Wicked" yesterday which was truly incredible!

Beth xx

Blonde or Brunette... that is the question

2009-08-13T20:50:00.014+01:00

This weeks poll is simple... is Ginger more lovely as a blonde bombshell, or a sultry brunette.

FOr the purposes of simplicity I'm ignoring the fact that "technically" she's a redehead in some movies (eg. Swingtime) or theat she got old and went white (coz who's going to vote for that). We're talking black and white screen godess, do we prefer blonde or brunette.

I decided I wouldn't post the option of both, so a decision is necessary.... and tell us why... we all want to know why you chose what you chose!

Personally, I am undecided... so here arre some pictures to help me, and the rest of you, to decide....

Happy pondering!
Blonde

Brunette

Have fun choosing.... I can't decide :S

Beth xx

Well now... another poll is over :)

2009-08-13T18:45:00.006+01:00

I wasn't really sure how to wrap this poll up.... so I've just posted the pictures and taken them outta the old post, and tried to summarise each one in my own way... here goes....

IN FIRST PLACE....

"Hearts and arrows", from Carefree
The day dress every Ginger-loving girl wants... and some of the guys too!! Somehow this dress manages to be elegant, alluring, demure and rather cutely kitsch all in one go! Combined with the Oscar worthy "dream", "snarling" and escapades involving a huge pane of glass and kicking a police officer, this number is the very best of Ginger. Down to earth, witty and so darn attractive!

In a close second...

"It's a cape!"
A slow starter on the voting front, this Swing time number soon climbed to the top of the pack. Timelessly classy, this white gown is elevated by Ginger's superb facial expressions following "the kiss" (possibly my favourite Ginger moment ever!), not to mention the sublime song and dance of "Never Gonna Dance". And doesn't it just move divinely?

In a well deserved third "Feathers"

Despite Fred's claim thet Ginger "looked like a chicken being attacked by a coyote", this dress is stunning. The way it moves, the way it clings in all the right places, and the fact that Ginger designed the dress herself (and fought hard for it) make it an unforgettable ensemble. "I had designed the dres, and I WAS GOING to wear it" You tell 'em Miss Rogers!

Tied in fourth "the "Jenny Dress", "Continental" and "Station Spectacular" from Lady in the Dark, The Gay Divorcee and The Major and the Minor respectively.

"Mink and Sequins" made what is, according to Ginger, a very heavy dress... but she never showed an iota of strain. Apart from being dazzling and in keeping with the surreal cicus, we get a solo song and dance from Ginger, and a good view of those legs... the best of all time? Entirely possible!

"Contrast Couture" is a stunning number, benefiting from its stunning monnochrome art deco set, but divine in its own right. We get the second Ginger solo song of the Astaire Rogers partnership, plus a twenty minute visual extravaganza with some wonderful moves. Altogether, a heavenly package.

"Station Spectacular" is perhaps the simplest of the outfits listed, and perhaps this is why we love it. This was the outfit that proved that Ginger didnt need sequins or feathers to blow us away. The white hat and coat, the simplicity... it demonstrates that the girl next door is just as beautiful as the stage personality. Plus, I love the hat!

"The Fur Blouse" of Star of Midnight deserves a mention, just because I'm not convinced anyone else has ever worn... and definitely not pulled of a fur blouse before. I mean the very idea is very strange. I love it however, and as Lauren noted... it's a truly extraordinary piece of tailoring!

Next weeks poll is a simple one of two options, but far less simple in the choosing... which I'l post later tonight.... the ultimate Ginger Rogers hair colour.... (check out jwalkers post on Ginger's brunette phase at "Gingerology")

The internal turmoil has left me (as yet) undecided....

Beth xx

Findings, a song from the heart, and last chance to vote!

2009-08-08T17:47:00.004+01:00

I finally tracked down today Forever Female and Perfect Stranger! This pretty much mad my week. I feel I've been quit e a neglectful blog mother these last few weeks so will hopefully make amends over the next wee while by posting a plethora of interesting ( well at least in my opinion) Gingerish trivia, pictures and clips.

For now, have not much to offer, except that I'm midway through my first ever movie clip medley to the absolutely sublime Kern/Hammerstein ballad " All the Things You Are". If you've never heard this song, please listen!This is a modern version from Mrs Henderson Presents sung by Will Young which is truly beautiful, and to me, could be about Ginger.

The chorus lyrics describe her perfectly

"You are, the promised kiss of springtime, which makes the lonely winters seem long
You are, the breathless hush of evening that lingers on the brink of a lovely song
You are the angel glow that lights a star
The dearest things I know are what you are"

To me, this song is a perfect embodiment of all Miss Rogers represents, not to mention beautiful Jerome Kern lyrics, a perfect melody...basically love in the form of music!

Yes I do love it a lot!!

And finally.... LAST CHANCE TO VOTE ON THE GINGER OUTFIT POLL!

Beth xx

Poll Number 3 - Favourite Ginger outfit

2009-08-03T14:57:00.012+01:00

At the suggestion of Lauren (The Ginger List/Greyscale) we attempt the tricky tricky question of the ultimate Ginger dress/outfit. I apologise for the delay in this arrival but thought it would need pictures for those who had perhaps not seen certain movies. Making the shortlist was hard, some outfits were requested, and if supported by a genuine glamour ( and lets face it most everything Ginger wore was glamorous). So the list is as follows.

"Feathers" - Cheek to Cheek - Top Hat (1935)

"Sequins and Mink" - The Saga of Jenny - Lady in the Dark (1944) "Hearts and Arrows" - Carefree (1938) "Assembly Dress" - The Assembly - Kitty Foyle (1940) I couldn't find a good picture of this dress and a screenshot was inpossible as you never see the whole front, but I love it so it's in XD
"Contrast Couture" - The Continental - The Gay Divorcee (1934)
"Station Spectacular" - Final scene - The Major and the Minor (1942) "It's A Cape" - Never Gonna Dance - Swing Time (1936) "Fur Blouse" - Star of Midnight (1935)
Get voting, I've enabled multiple votes as personally, I have a winner for formalwear and a winner for daywear and theyre not really in the same category so I couldn't choose.... let me know what you think and why you chose what you chose. For me, it's the Continental dress, for the evening, the heart suit from Carefree for the day, and the white fur outfit from Star of Midnight for sheer glamour and unusual day/night crossover outfit! I also had to vote for the assembly dress of Kitty Foyle as I truly adore it (having Just rewatched the movie!) so its an indecisive week for me!

Beth xx

"Never Gonna Dance".... :(

2009-07-31T22:33:00.006+01:00

Tomorrow marks the very end of my dance career as it were. My final performance with my current dance group, a quartet at the All-England finals in London. Again sorry to deviate from Ginger, but this competotions the reason for my prolonged absence and the imminent end has brought about bittersweet emotions. Maybe in later life I'll end up on stage again.... nothings final.

Anyway, back to Ginger. Well ish! I don't really get sage fright, but I find channelling Gnger helps. Somehow thinking about that performance quality she exudes at all times makes my dancing better. I won a silver medal today!

Now to make up for a non- Gingery post I've added in a few Ginger pictures I've recently come across !

I really do hope I can age as well as GInger... i found this which was apparently taken in the '80s!

Beth xx

Poll Results - and a notice of temporary absence!

2009-07-27T00:14:00.010+01:00

Just thought I'd let you all know that I'm very busy this week and next week with the finals of the All England Dance competition. I managed to qualify several dances so am up in London rehearsing/erforming most of the week so any posts will be few and far between!

But on to more interesting topics! The results for "Your Favourite Fred and Ginger Romantic Duet"

IN FIRST PLACE

With a huge lead in first place (50% of the vote) we have the ever wonderful "Never Gonna Dance" from Swing Time (1936). Whether it's the emotion, the dress, those turns up the stairs or the song.... theres just someting about it that's special!
Tied in second place, Cole Porter's sublime "Night and Day" from The Gay Divorcee (1934), the wonderful melody combined with our first entirely Fred and Ginger extravaganza, the sea, the sensuality....

Also in second place, the infamous "Cheek to Cheek" from Top Hat (1935), which I will always think of as the feathers number! Somehow, knowing about the argument actually makes it more fun to watch rather thah detracting from the mood, Ginger really was sparky! <>

Apart from this, it's a swell song (if anyone would like to hear a charming rendition of Ginger singing it from a rare recording, it is the backing on this video on YT http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FDJnx5Emjl0), and the dance is as per usual, top class :)

In third place, again tied, are "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes" from Roberta (1935) and "They Can't Take That Away From Me" from The Barkleys of Broadway (1949).

The second could almost (as a reader noted on an earlier post) be considered their signature tune, appearing in two films, written by Gershwin with the pair of them in mind (the line "The way you sing off key" was apparently a private joke with Ginger who occasionally wavered from the tune!) and a perfectly costumed and staged number spelling out the end of an era. Smoke Gets In Your Eyes is in many senses the reverse, they were barely beginning as a partnership having done only one film as the first billing, and I think this particular number sets the tone for what is to come, thir elegance, the electricity between them... perfection in a dance number!

And finally, In joint 4th position, "Let's Face the Music and Dance", Follow the Fleet (1936), "Change Partners" Carefree (1938) and The Final Waltz" of The Story of Vernon and Irene Castle (1939). I dont have time to write on these just now, but will hopefully expand later...at any rate, they're all beautiful, and there's no such thing as bad Fred and Ginger!

Ginger and Wedding Dresses

2009-07-21T18:03:00.005+01:00

I was watching "It Had to be You" today... and man, do I dislike that movie. I just feel like Ginger's part doesnt't suit her, so you dont get her personality at all. Also the plot is absolutely ridiculous, if the indian's a figment of her imagination, how come other people can interact with him!?

Anyway, the multiple weddings in this film got me thinking on how many times Ginger wears a wedding dress in movies. So I'm preparing a Ginger Wedding Dress picture extravaganza special type thing, which'll be up later in the week.

As a part of this, I tried to locate one of Ginger's actual wedding dresses, as I figured even if a few of the 5 were small ceremonies, as a major face of hollywood, there ought to be pictures somewhere! And I came across this picture, which is (as far as I can tell) and actual wedding portrait. I'm trying to find out which one (I'd guess at Lew Ayres by the hair and age and the fact that they had a proper wedding) but I'll try and verify it, but she looks so very gorgeous that I wanted to post it now! Her flowers were lavender orchids and lily-of-the-valley, the dress was ivory satin and the veil tulle. I think its absolutely gorgeous!

A new poll!

2009-07-18T11:09:00.003+01:00

Well I decided to go ahead with aweekly poll, I enjoyed reading everyones responses to the last one so much! Its another Fred and Ginger question, so next weeks will have to be Ginger only!

This time, the question is based upon a question suggested by jwalker, "Which is your favourite Fred and GInger Dance", well there are so so many to choose from and they're all so different that I figured it wouldnt really be faior of me to choose my favourites and restrict yours, so instead I chose romantic duets. Most of the Fred and Ginger films have them, but only one, which made the number manageable.

Again there's nothing from Flying Down to Rio as, much as I love the Carioca, it can't be considered romantic. Then every other film has its dance included except Shall We Dance. I didnt include this as the original, "They Can't Take That Away from Me" is just Freds song, and I could include the song in the poll by adding in The Barkelys of Broadway's reprise! Just as a note... by Waltz Medley from Castles, I mean the number where he arrives in uniform in Paris, and sh's all worried and he just sweeps her off her feet!

I'd love to hear from you all, Ive enabled multiple answers for those of us that cant choose an absolute favourite and want to chuck in a few! Leave a comment with what you chose and why if you've time!

I chose "Night and Day", as I love the dress, adore the song (such a beautiful melody) and I think the dance is very sensuous and therefore different to later stuff. Also chose Never gonna dance - again for the dress (which I noticesd is very similar to Night and Days when the cape is off!), the setting ( I just love the white dress on the black floor), those spins at the end and again the song. Change Partners I chose primarily for the song, which for some reason I love, and the trance like quality which I enjoy, despite not being a huge fan of the hypnotic type dance moves of the beginning. The dress is also gorgeous!

Beth xx

An update!!

2009-07-17T23:30:00.004+01:00

I have located some of the elusive 14!! This is a very exciting moment for me and I wished to share it with you :P

Thanks to Lauren (The Ginger List/Grayscale) I now know the whereabouts of Night in a Dormitory!

I myself have located through nefarious means DVDr copies of Follow the Leader (1930), and Sitting Pretty (1933)!!

Still questing for Hat Check Girl, I'm really hopin its a good movie, or at least rich in Ginger! Imagine if after all the frustration and heartache, it turned out to be a dud!
I was working in my rose garden today, and remembered reading in Ginger :My Story, about Ginger having a rose named after her, thought I'd locate a picture! Pretty isnt it, pink of course :P !!
Beth xx

Considering a weekly poll...?

2009-07-17T14:53:00.002+01:00

I very much enjoyed reading everyones feedback on the Fred and Ginger poll, it was grewat to hear from you all and I felt like I was getting to know you a bit!

Anyways, so I thought I might make it more regular, so that I can continue the process, hoping it'd lead to a broader appreciation of all things Ginger, as well as the opportunity for us all to learn more about eachothers Ginger tastes, likes, pet peeves and favourites!

Anyways, so I'll probably post a poll tomorrow, and would love to know what you all think of the idea...

If it goes ahead, when I post the results for a poll, I'd love for those who are reading to suggest their own ideas for the next one, so its not just me inputting and we get a wider range of questions!

Hope you're all well, and thanks for reading!
Keep it Gingery!

Beth xx

I had intended...

2009-07-16T23:17:00.001+01:00

to mark this Ginger's birthday with a video montage of movie clips I love, but when attempting to upload to youtube, the song ("She" by Elvis Costello) turned out to be blocked. I couldnt ruin the video by speedily choosing a lesser song.

However, I have uploaded a slideshow of pictures, new ones I havent seen around before (or at least not frequently!) to commemorate the occasion. I set them to the gorgeous "Sonnet 18" sung by David Gilmour, words of course, by Shakespeare! Have a look if you have time!

I'm off now to watch Kitty Foyle, my final GInger film of the day! I watched my current top 5, Swing Time, The Major and the Minor, Lady in the Dark, Carefree and Vivacious Lady (which is tied in 5th with Kitty!) I also wore pink, drank ice cream soda, did multiple celebratory dances, and listened to as much Ginger music as possible! My family think I'm mad to celebrate a dead 98 year old actress' birthday, but as I told them, she has had a great impact on my life, on the genre of musicals, on areas of the music industry and deserves to be remembered for the positive influence she has, and indeed still has!

As Shakespeare (and David Gimour) so aptly put it

"Thy eternal summer shall not fade

Nor lose possession of that fair thou owest;

Nor shall Death brag thou wander'st in his shade,

When in eternal lines to time thou growest:

So long as men can breathe or eyes can see,

So long lives this and this gives life to thee."

The beginning of Ginger's birthday

2009-07-16T01:12:00.004+01:00

It's 1am here in the UK and I'm off to bed, but couldn't go without first sayin... HAPPY 98th BIRTHDAY to the gorgeous Miss Virginia Katherine McMath!

There will be much much more at a more civilized hour!!

The results are in... and it's an excuse for some pictures!!

2009-07-12T22:18:00.013+01:00

So the poll finished today.... thanks to everyone who voted!

In first place we have my personal favourite, SWING TIME (1936)
I'm glad this one came up top! For me it's the perfect balance of dialogue music and dance, and the movie in which Ginger gets to do at least as much as Fred! Most importantly, it was Ginger's
favourite!

In a very close second we have a tie between, TOP HAT (1935) aaaaannnd CAREFREE(1938).

While I'm not actually a huge Top Hat fan, it is a swell movie, and it deserves this spot. I do always wonder why it seems to be considered the best Fred and Ginger by critics? Any suggestions?
I was thrilled to see Carefree in the top few, proof it seems that the film is underrated, but also perhaps that it's Ginger fans who love it the most. EIther way, the underdog triumphed :D

A few votes back in third position we have a tie between SHALL WE DANCE (1937) and FOLLOW THE FLEET (1936)

Lovely lovely Gershwin songs in the first, and awww, dont Ginger look cute in that sailor suit :)

In 4th Place we have ROBERTA (1935) and THE GAY DIVORCEE (1934)

Some lovely costumes *swoon* lovely songs, (Night and Day is possibly my favourite song of their movies together) and a very suspicious Polish accent!!

And staggering in in last place, with no votes at all, THE STORY OF VERNON AND IRENE CASTLE (1939)
I'd love to know why noone else likes this film (well less than the others anyways!). I actually quite enjoy it except for the trauma of the end, Ginger is wonderful in it. For me, It can't be a favourite of the Fred and Gingers because there aren't enough songs, and because if I want to watch a sob story type Ginger movie, I stick to Tender Comrade and Kitty Foyle.... but what do all you lot think??

xx

The elusive 14... also LAST CHANCE TO VOTE!!

2009-07-11T12:06:00.006+01:00

Since the start of this blog in early June... I've begged, borrowed, bought and (I suppose technically) stolen my way to having 62 Ginger movies either on DVD, on VHS or on my hard drive. Despite crawling through numerous online auctions and sites of questionable reputation, there are 14 movies (including 3 shorts) which I simply cannot find. Very annoying!!

What makes it worse is that in many cases of the 14, I've found fragments on youtube, convincing me even more thoroughly that I do want them, and that they must exist somewhere! Hence this post is a roundup of those 14 failures of my search (so far :P), and a plea to anyone whose great aunt may have an ancient VHS in a box in her attic! Also, not having access to TCM, it's possible I'm just suffering from living in the UK! Most of these missing films are either very early, or late in her career.

So here we go (chronologically!!)

1. A Day of a Man of Affairs (1929)[short]- Ginger's first official film! She would have been 18,the same age as me!!

2. Campus Sweethearts (1930)[short] Second movie, I'd imagine these will be the hardest to find!

3. A Night in A Dormitory (1930) [short] - Ginger playing.... Ginger!! There are clips of this on YT but I dont know if it's the whole thing! Its so cute, and shows Ginger when she was playing the Betty Boop style flapper that she began as, before she developed in to the Ginger we know and love http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C96KI1cq034

4. The Sap from Syracuse (1930) - Also known as the Sap from Abroad. - I know this one exists as again there are clips on youtube, and someone has the whole film but wants a trade that I cant provide :(

5. Queen High (1930) - Ditto the above sob story! But even worse as there are large chunks of this on youtube to torture me!! For your enjoyment though!!

6. Follow the Leader (1930) - Yet again, the first 9 minutes to torture me....
Having said this, I just realised I havent actually messaged the uploader to ask about the rest of it :P

7. Hat Check Girl (1932) - Here begins the small number of random early/mid career films which just aren't to be found anywhere!

8. Sitting Pretty (1933) - Has apparently Ginger in a gorgeous sequinned get up, and the lovely song, "Did You Ever See a Dream Walking"

and now we skip all the way through the wonders of Kitty Foyle and the Fred and Ginger lot to....

9. Perfect Strangers (1950) - I have literally found no part of this film anywhere outside the IMDB, maybe because there are better know films with the same title... but who knows!

10. Forever Female (1953) - Drawn a complete blank here - all I can remember is I can't find it!!

11. The First Travelling Saleslady (1956)- Is reportedly a hoot! The trailer is on YT and you can see Carol Channing making her screen debut! This was also Ginger's last movie at RKO and I believe, the last picture made at RKO prior to it changing hands/name etc. I know from the trailer that it's been on TCM so anyone who has a copy...I will do most anything to lay hands on it!!

12. Oh Men! Oh Women! (1957) - The closest I've come to a video of this is a passing reference on What's My Line where GInger is mystery guest! This also applies to...

13. The Confession (1964) - Where Ginger herself speaks briefly of her ill-fated foray in to production with husband number 5. Incidentally this is the only film made by their company, and Ginger stars as Madame Rinaldi...brothel owner!!

14. Harlow (1965) - By all accounts, this is a fairly poor film, but it's Ginger's final one, and I need it, if only for the sake of completion, you'd think being more recent, it'd be easier to find!

Apologies to anyone who'd waded through this entire post! I wasnt anticipating the length it'd become, but somehow a list of titles seemed a little dry.

Primrose Path (1940) Week 3 - (delayed by another 3 :S)

2009-07-10T18:13:00.006+01:00

Primrose Path
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6wNUyRST1dU&feature=channel_page

A bit of trivia! This is the first film in which Ginger has dark hair, after her long bout as a blonde from The Tip Off (1931) onwards! There is in fact a lovely anecdote in her autobiography about her decision to dye her hair brunette in order to look younger, and her struggle keeping it secret from the press pre-realease, which involved turban wearing!! Ginger begins here her run of playing significantly younger characters, with Ellie May Adams.

It's an interesting film, as it tackles a lot of moral issues, but has to tread lightly to avoid breaking the Hays Code. It was banned in several states after upsetting local censors, and had it not, many critics suggested that Ginger might have been nominated for an Academy Award, though ultimately it didn't matter! Ginger is the daughter of a hooker and a drunk. Her grandma was also a prostitute, and her refusal to join the family trade is pivotal to the plot. Dressing childishly and doing her best to support her family without selling herself, she meets a Ed Wallace (Joel McCrea) who comes from a more respecatable family, who own a small diner. She falls for him, but lies about her family, a decision which comes back to haunt her and breaks up their marriage.

The grandma and younger sister are both well acted, and really horrible characters, both conniving and unpleasent, their scheming was a slight distraction from the film as I genuinely wanted to punch them both for large sections of the film.

Other than this, I really I enjoyed the movie. It was in many ways, Ginger's first opportunity to do any dramatic acting, and she really shines. Also, its one of those "struggle to survive" type movies which leaves you feeling fulfilled and sort of wholesome (this sounds kind of wierd but I hope at least one person understands what I'm trying to say :P!). The relationship between Ellie May and Ed is very cute, I especially love the scene where he's painting the boat - you'll know the one I mean if you've seen it!

Ginger says; "Joel McCrae was my handsome leading man and I always loved working with him. The supporting cast was equally wonderful...Primrose Path provided me with my first substantial dramatic role... (I) went happily in to the role of Ellie May Adams, which gave me an age range to play as well as an opportunity at character development."

Rating (Ginger scale)
Plot - 18/20 (fairly solid, based on novel "February Hill"
Importance of Ginger - 18/20
Characters - 16/20 all convincing if exaggerated and in some cases annoying!
The Ginger Factor - 18/20
"X" Factors - 17/20

X factors include - Strong plot line, Some really good acting, convincing romance, weepy moments (for me at any rate!), good scripting, I enjoyed the amusing banter between the cafe staff and customers! NOthing outstanding but consistenly high standard!

Overall - 87
Grade - A
Position in my collection 15/60
Note! I got to the stage where I'd seen enough of Ginger's films to order them by score so have added this in as a little (probably useless extra! 60 is how many I've seen!)

GOT IN TO UNIVERSITY!!

2009-07-06T18:38:00.000+01:00

I'm rather proud of myself as I did very well in my final exams, much better than predicted :)

I get my university place and probably a scholarship as well as I surpassed my offer sunstantially! SOrry to deviate from the Ginger theme... but I wanted to share XD

Beth xx

A Fred and Ginger Poll....

2009-07-05T19:25:00.003+01:00

While on holiday I had an intersting debate with and old lady on the beach. I was walking along humming "Change Partners" and she stopped me and asked me why I was singing that song. My reply was that I loved Ginger, I loved musicals, I especially loved Carefree, and that it is a wonderful song. It emerged she was a Fred Astaire fan, but hated that particular film.

Anyway, the point of this anecdote was to explain the poll. Carefree is critically one of their less acclaimed movies. It didnt do well at the box office etc. I love it, but I wondered if I love it because Ginger gets to be the lead for once? I think its more than that, but I wanted to see what other Ginger fans thought of this film within the context of other Fred/Ginger films.

I allowed the option of multiple answers on the grounds that Swing Time is my favourite because it has more musical content than Carefree, which is my second favourite. So if you vote, you can vote for your top 2 or 3.

I apologize if anyone likes Flying DOwn to Rio best, I didnt include it because they have such a small part, even if it is show stealing and I didnt want the poll to be too epic in length. Roberta was included because even as second leads they play a significant part and have some brilliant dance numbers. The Barkelys I excluded as its such a dfferent film and a different era.

I'd love to hear your points of view!!

Beth xx

Has returned, sunburnt.... :(

2009-07-05T19:10:00.002+01:00

I spent the last week and a bit staying in a flat with 13 friends...all of whom dislike classic cinema. To quote, "If it's black and white, it's s**t!".

I took a few Ginger DVDs with me in the hope that I'd get a chance to watch them in the early mornings while the others slept off their hangovers, but it was not to be :( Therefore I spent 10 days without Ginger :o - This is not something I will repeat. I managed to sneak about a half hour of the Major and The Minor while people were shopping but the moment people returned they started making rude comments, so I switched it off befoe I was forced to kill someone.

This led me to wonder, why is it most people automatically assume recent films are "better". I was forced to watch "Knocked up" *grimace*, endless episodes of Desperate Housewives *melodrama* and "The Epic Movie" which made me want to remove my own eyeballs with a blunt stick.

Tomorrow I find out whether or not I got the grades to go to University. After this potential trauma, I'll try and get back on track with this blog, I have a few reviews, and random trivia to post!

Beth xx

As a note - I currently have 10 invites to a private torrent tracker specialising in classic movies. This has about 60 of Gingers films to download. Leave a comment if you are interested!!

Going Going Gone.... for a bit!

2009-06-26T11:20:00.001+01:00

I'm off on holiday for a week tomorrow! Nowhere exciting but an opportunity to be with my school friends before we all go off to uni/college! I look forward to catching up on everything when I get back...

Having Wonderful Time.....

Beth xx

Ginger Rogers and the ha-ha!!

2009-06-24T17:55:00.005+01:00

Having rewatched several of my favourite Ginger films this week along with a few new ones, I noticed something that amused me greatly! In many of her movies, she does a little laugh a "haha(ha)"!!

Three ha's seems to be the maximum, but it was an amusing quirk which I felt warranted a post. Its the tone of the has which gets me. Its slightly posh sounding, ever so slightly smug, but very very Ginger!

Noticeable ha moments (off the top of my head);
Bachelor mother, in relation to exchanging a duck, and also the final, "You still think I'm this baby's mother? Of Ccourse! "ha-ha"

Carefree, Fred misses the ball "Ha ha ha"

Lady in the Dark, the saga of Jenny, "how can this maid have betryed him? Haha"

Vivacious lady - The Catfight, whilst tearing out Helen's hair "ha ha ha" pulls hair, "ha ha"

There are many more which I will add to this list when I remember them! I enjoyed this oddity very much :)

Two new DVDs!!

2009-06-22T13:20:00.007+01:00

Today was a good day, , two lovely new Ginger dvds in jiffy bags (which are always fun :P)
Don't Bet on Love (1933) with Ginger ad second hubby Lew Ayres I watched already. Not a great movie but cute! They made a lovely couple, shame about the pre-nup - though his legs are awful skinny XD!
Have yet to check out Young Man, rather chuffed at this find as its somewhat of an obscurity! Sadly, doesn't work on my TV so have to watch on computer! WIll try and post these to YT or summat asap!
Beth xx

A behind the scenes shot from Young Man of Manhattan! "Cigarette me, big boy" - Puff Randolph (Ginger Rogers)

Rafter Romance - Week 2

2009-06-13T11:11:00.004+01:00

Rafter Romance
Just uploaded it to youtube
http://www.youtube.com/view_play_list?p=6F7BAEF8E4E51DF7

The Blurb
Mary Carroll (Rogers) a working girl is forced to share an apartment with a night watchman, Jack Bacon (Foster), as neither can afford their rent. The two share on a shift basis and so never meet, but communicate in note form. Disgusted by the lifestyles of the other, they grow to hate one another, but in the outside unknowingly meet, with hilarious consequences.

Made in 1933 and co-starring Norman Foster, this movie is very very cute. Its a typical 30s romcom and wouldn't win prizes for originality but both the leads put in lovely performances and there are some very funny moments. The note based correspondance between the two characters is a hoot and being pre-code, the romance scenes are slightly freer than in later Ginger films of this type.

Ginger says - "I was delighted to do it. It was like old-home weekagain, especially with Norman Foster, as my leading man" (Ginger, My Story)

Rating (Ginger Scale)

Plot - 15/20 not very original but adequate!
Importance of Ginger - 17/20
Characters - 17/20
The Ginger Factor - 19/20
"X" Factors - 16/20

X factors include - amusing caricatures, "goggle eyed spinster", lovely romance scene, interesting political moments with what appears to be earliest recorded reference to nazism in hollywood, funny moments.

Total 84/100
Grade A!!

Spotlight Film No. 1

2009-05-30T21:11:00.005+01:00

Star of Midnight
Just uploaded it to youtube
http://www.youtube.com/view_play_list?p=846FE68FE21A9DC8&search_query=strofmdngt

This 1935 movie shows Ginger moving from a comic support to a leading lady, but maintains her ever present spunkiness! Co-starring William Powell as a sleuthing lawyer, Ginger is his wise-cracking protege and assistant, who is always one humorous step behind. The plot is clever, suspenseful moments keep it moving. What I particularly liked about the film was the relationship between Ginger and William Powell, which was funny and full of excellent moments dialogue wise! I thought eh Romance was underplayed, making the ending a bit brief, but on the whole is great fun. If you like The Thin Man, give this a go!

Ginger says - "I had always admired Bill Powell and was quite thrilled to be making a movie with him" (Ginger, My Story)

Rating (Ginger Scale)

Plot - 18/20
Importance of Ginger - 16/20
Characters - 14/20
The Ginger Factor - 18/20
"X" Factors - 13/20

X factors include stunning costume moments ( I love the white mink blouse paired with a black skirt!), funny dialogue ans good suspense!

Total 79/100
Grade B!!

A Ginger Scale

2009-05-30T13:04:00.002+01:00

While I am currently busy watching new Ginger movies, I've frequently been asked which are my favourites....what a question! Subsequently I decided to invent for myself some sort of scale, so I can rate different aspects of her movies, giving a score which can be used to prioritise viewing! Its clear I have a lot of time on my hands!

Anyway, I worked out the following scale, and starting tomorrow, (saturday) each week I'll post a link to a newly found/uploaded Ginger movie, along with a brief plot summary, my opinions, and my score!

The scores will look as follows, I worked out 5 categories which I judge a movie on. Each is out of 20 and gives a final score off 100!

1. Plot (P)- how convincing and interesting it is, this being v. important to how much I enjoy a movie, It doesnt necessarily have to be very serious, but should move the film along!

2. Importance of Ginger (IG)- I obviously realised that to me and other Ginger fans, films where she is supporting are (generally) less enjoyable, so therefore a mark for how central Ginger is. Mostly she is part of a couple, but if she is the more important of the two, then I have awarded high marks, therefore on the whole, of the Fred/Ginger films, I havent been able to award full marks as he tends to be prioritised!

3. Characters (C) - How likeable the characters are. The instances of Ginger movies I don't much like (eg. It had to be you) stem mainly from the fact that I dont like the character Ginger is playing, regardless of her talents as an actress, if the characters are not likeable, the film doesn't cut it. Also in this category, how the cast as a whole interacts.

4. The Ginger Factor (G) How well Ginger-y she is! Her spunkiness, humour, talent, all the things which make us love her, and how well they are displayed in the film. This si obviously quite a personal category, debates are always fun so feel free to argue!

5 . The "X" Factors (X) - Other things which make the film worth seeing, stunning dresses, dance routines, famous songs, funny moments and novelties! Thos little things which make you think "Wow"!! I'll try and include in my little revies, what these are!

Anyway, this makes a score out of 100 and allows me to fairly decide my top 10!

Here goes... Beth xx

It's officially begun!

2009-05-25T15:02:00.003+01:00

My summer holidays have started nome so I have three and a half months to "Find GInger", it's going okay so far, Ive located about 55 of her movies, currently grappling with getting them on to DVD, somewhat tricky, anyway,twice each week, I'll post the lastest film I've seen, do a little bit of a summary, IMDB link, picture and most importantly a link! If its not online, I'm putting it there, midway through posting Star of Midnight and Tom, Dick and Harry, so will start with them asap!

A hint to Ginger Fans! Through the loveliness of youtube user KerrieGrant, I've found a site called, Classic Movie Zone. It's a torrent sharing site, focusing on classic movies, you have to sign up to join it, but its free and has loads of rare Ginger movies such as Rafter Rmance and the Tenderfoot! http://www.classiccinemazone.com/index.php If interested check it out, sign up, look in the forums and track down Collection, Ginger Rogers!

Beth xx

Finding Ginger

2009-05-16T14:43:00.000+01:00

I have recently become a huge fan of Miss Ginger Rogers, talented, beautiful legend. Through perusing YouTube in search of her work, I have stumbled upon many like minded people, all sharing my passion.

Sadly, the Golden Age to which Ginger belonged is gone, all that is left is films and photographs. These are what we thrive upon, bringing us enjoyment and distracting us from the crass culture of lip-sync, airbrushing, dubbing and the many millions of takes modern "actors" require to make a movie.

Anyway, to summarise, I decided to start this blog, in which I hope to chart my search for the films of Ginger Rogers, in the hope that others read it, contribute to it, and that it will ultimately become a place where those who love Ginger can discuss her life and work, and find movies of her that they need to see.

I hope you will join me

Beth xx

Words of wisdom;
“My love for ice cream emerged at an early age--and has never left!” Ginger Rogers