Nana
Young Parisian Nana wards off of a boozed-up military officer at a local restaurant, and fellow diner Gaston Greiner is so impressed with her pluck that he decides to make her a performer at his musical theater. Soon, Nana is a star, and the girlfriend of Greiner and two other men. But when he learns that she's been getting around, Greiner fires her. As she tries to reclaim her singing job while dodging yet another suitor, her treachery might get the better of her.
Insights
Plot Summary
Nana, a spirited young woman living in poverty, catches the eye of a wealthy businessman. She becomes his mistress, enjoying a life of luxury but struggling with her true desires and the societal expectations placed upon her. Her journey is marked by ambition, romance, and the harsh realities of class and dependency in 19th-century Paris.
Critical Reception
Nana was a critical and commercial success, lauded for Gloria Swanson's powerful performance and Dorothy Arzner's skillful direction. It is considered a significant film of the pre-Code era, showcasing a complex female character and addressing mature themes.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for Gloria Swanson's magnetic and complex portrayal of the titular character.
- Recognized as a sophisticated and visually striking pre-Code drama.
- Commended Dorothy Arzner's assured direction in handling mature themes and character development.
Google audience: Audience reviews generally highlight Gloria Swanson's captivating performance and the film's compelling narrative. Many appreciate its portrayal of a strong, independent woman navigating societal constraints.
Awards & Accolades
None notable.
Fun Fact
Dorothy Arzner was the only female director working in Hollywood during this period, and Nana was one of her most successful films, solidifying her reputation as a talented filmmaker.
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