Hollywood and pop culture have history in the United States. The famous Hollywood sign in Los Angeles might come to mind when thinking of Hollywood; or perhaps famous stars such as Tom Cruise or Angelina Jolie. Hollywood certainly isn’t a modern innovation, but has had influence on American culture and entertainment for decades.
A part of Hollywood’s history is their famous women. From Marilyn Monroe to Audrey Hepburn, many women have had a strong influence on pop culture, film, music, fashion, and women as a whole.
It could be Marilyn Monroe’s notorious song, Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend. Also Audrey Hepburn’s eminent film, “Breakfast At Tiffany’s.” Not to forget Grace Kelly’s famous Hermes bag known as the Kelly Bag. Notably, Hendy Llamar who invented the idea of Wi-Fi. These women have had significant contributions to not only pop culture, but society as a whole.
Drama teacher Jonathan Cohen pointed out that during the early to mid 1900’s in the United States, not everyone had a television at home but movies were heavily accessible. What people saw in movies affected the way they believed was proper to behave or appear.
This could be seen in hairstyles, beauty, fashion, and what people believe a woman’s place in society is. For example, a curvy body was seen as ideal in 1950’s United States. The popularity of Marilyn Monroe played an influential role in the standard at the time.
Drama teacher Bryan Wilson said, “Lucille Ball was a terrific success story, though. She fought to maintain creative control of I Love Lucy, including syndication rights, and ultimately became the first female to lead a studio–her Desilu Studios carved out a good niche in creating television and more, including pioneering shows like Star Trek.”
Lucille Ball was a famous actress during the 1950’s and 60’s. She was in the film “I Love Lucy” as Drama teacher Bryan Wilson mentioned; but also in other movies such as “The Long, Long Trailer” and “Forever, Darling.” Not only was she a movie star, but also starred in television shows such as “The Lucy Show” and “Here’s Lucy.”
Film teacher Benjamin Bateman said, “The movies project an idealistic female character.” He pointed out that many of the women of Old Hollywood embodied a femme fatale look and persona in film noir. A femme fatale is a woman who’s seductive, charming, mysterious, and beautiful. Actress Rita Haysworth and cartoon character Jessica Rabbit are examples of this.
Old Hollywood has many films and actors with much acclaim. The women have played many roles and had styles that are still known to many today; including the teachers here at Taft. Remembering and recognizing their influence can help people understand certain aspects of our culture today.
