"What A Way To Go!" Shirley MacLaine's Iconic Film: Costumes & More!

Do you remember the days when movies were events, not just distractions? "What a Way to Go!" encapsulates that era, a cinematic spectacle where every frame feels like a work of art, and the sheer audacity of its production is breathtaking.

This 1964 black comedy, directed by J. Lee Thompson, remains a touchstone of its genre, celebrated for its satire, its star-studded cast, and most famously, its lavish costumes. The film follows the ill-fated Louisa May Foster, played by the effervescent Shirley MacLaine, as she navigates a series of marriages to wealthy men, each encounter leading to a darkly comic end. The narrative unfolds through a series of flashbacks, framed by Louisa's attempt to donate a staggering fortune to the Internal Revenue Service, a gesture that sets the tone for the film's satirical exploration of wealth, marriage, and the capricious nature of fate.

The film's brilliance lies not only in its sharp wit and clever premise but also in the remarkable talent assembled. The cast reads like a who's who of Hollywood's golden age, featuring Paul Newman, Robert Mitchum, Dean Martin, Gene Kelly, Bob Cummings, and Dick Van Dyke. The supporting cast includes Rex Harrison, Ingrid Bergman, and Jeanne Moreau, making it an ensemble that most films could only dream of. This film brought together a truly diverse range of personalities, a fascinating hodgepodge that underscores the movie's playful disregard for convention. The screenplay, penned by Betty Comden and Adolph Green, based on Gwen Davis's story "I Love Louisa," provides a sharp, witty script, ensuring the film's dialogue remains as memorable as its visuals.

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Category	Details
Full Name	Shirley MacLean Beaty
Born	April 24, 1934, Richmond, Virginia, USA
Nationality	American
Occupation	Actress, Singer, Author, Activist, Former Dancer
Known For	Portrayals of quirky, headstrong, and eccentric women
Notable Awards	Academy Award, Primetime Emmy Award, Two British Academy Film Awards, Six Golden Globe Awards
Notable Films	"The Apartment", "Irma la Douce", "Terms of Endearment", "The Turning Point", "Steel Magnolias"
Interests	Mysticism, Spirituality
Marriages	Steve Parker (m. 19541982, divorced)
Website	Official Website

But the true star of "What a Way to Go!" might not be a person, but the artistry behind the camera, particularly the costume design. Maclaine sported a staggering 72 costumes, each one meticulously crafted to reflect the character's journey and the changing eras of her life. The film's budget allocated over $500,000 in 1964 to its wardrobe, an amount that, when adjusted for inflation, translates to roughly $4.8 million today, a sum that outstrips the costume budget for the epic "Gone With the Wind". The costumes, designed by the legendary Edith Head, are not merely clothes; they are vibrant characters themselves, amplifying the film's themes of wealth, status, and the ever-shifting nature of fortune.

The visual style of "What a Way to Go!" is as bold and inventive as its narrative. The film utilizes a range of stylistic techniques, from the glamorous, high-fashion aesthetic of Louisa's earlier life to the more subdued, almost surreal imagery of her later experiences. These choices create a dynamic visual tapestry that holds the viewer's attention, drawing them deeper into Louisa's world. The film also employs striking cinematography and inventive set design, all working in concert to create a unique and unforgettable cinematic experience.

The film's iconic status is cemented in part due to its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia. For those who love fashion and film history, the movie has become a reference point. Sabrina's backless baby blue dress with a sparkling pendant draped across her back recalled Shirley Maclaine's memorable look. The film reminds viewers of the glamour and the artistic innovation that defined the era.

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Beyond the glitz and glamour, "What a Way to Go!" offers a poignant commentary on the pursuit of happiness and the ephemeral nature of wealth. Louisa's marriages, though initially promising, are all marked by tragedy, highlighting the film's cynical yet humorous view on the pursuit of material success. The film never fails to remind us that money can't buy happiness, and sometimes, it can be the very thing that ruins it.

The film's success also lies in its clever subversion of genre conventions. It is a black comedy at heart, utilizing humor to explore dark themes, such as death, misfortune, and the complexities of human relationships. The film balances light and darkness with remarkable finesse, creating a unique viewing experience that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The films exploration of relationships offers a nuanced look at different facets of love. The movie does not provide an easy answer, rather it showcases different types of love and how they can be both beautiful and destructive.

"What a Way to Go!" made its debut in New York City, New York, on May 13, 1964, quickly capturing the hearts and imaginations of moviegoers across the nation. Its release marked a pivotal moment in cinematic history, solidifying its position as a timeless classic. The film was subsequently released on May 14, 1964, and continues to be celebrated for its iconic status.

The film remains relevant today, as it continues to entertain and intrigue audiences with its wit, style, and thought-provoking subject matter. It is a reminder of the power of cinema to transport us to other worlds, to make us laugh, to make us think, and to remind us of the importance of living life to the fullest, even when faced with the unexpected twists and turns that life has to offer.

The legacy of "What a Way to Go!" is undeniable. It is a film that has influenced generations of filmmakers and continues to be referenced in popular culture. The impact of "What a Way to Go!" extends far beyond the screen. From fashion to cinematography, the film has left its mark on the world, establishing itself as a true cinematic masterpiece.

Ultimately, "What a Way to Go!" is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling, a film that reminds us that even in the face of misfortune, there is always beauty and humor to be found. It's a film that is as stylish and captivating today as it was when it first graced the silver screen, a timeless classic that will continue to delight audiences for generations to come.

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