That Lady in Ermine
Circa 1861, Angelina, ruling countess of an Italian principality, is at a loss when invaded by a Hungarian army. Her lookalike ancestress Francesca, who saved a similar situation 300 years before, comes to life from a portrait to help her descendant. Complicating factor: the newlywed countess feels strangely drawn to the handsome invader...
Insights
Plot Summary
In the fictional European nation of Borogravia, the stern, unmarried Princess Fedora is forced by her advisors to find a husband. She rejects many suitors until a portrait of a handsome Italian general, an ancestor, appears. She falls in love with the portrait and imagines him coming to life, leading to a whirlwind romance and comedic misunderstandings. As she pursues this idealized love, the nation faces invasion, and she must find a way to reconcile her romantic fantasies with her responsibilities.
Critical Reception
Upon its release, "That Lady in Ermine" received mixed to positive reviews, with critics praising its lavish production and musical numbers, as well as the performances of Betty Grable and Douglas Fairbanks Jr. However, some found the plot to be predictable and the humor somewhat dated, even for its time.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its colorful and opulent Technicolor visuals and musical sequences.
- Betty Grable's star power and musical talent were highlighted as a major draw.
- Some critics found the storyline light and the romantic comedy elements less impactful than expected.
Google audience: Audience reception information from Google reviews is not readily available for this film.
Fun Fact
This film was one of the last projects of legendary director Ernst Lubitsch, who passed away during its production. Otto Preminger took over directing duties for the final scenes, though he is uncredited.
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