Watch Portrait of a Show Girl

Portrait of a Show Girl is a charming musical film that tells the story of a young woman with dreams of making it big on Broadway. The movie, which was released in 1982, stars Lesley Ann Warren as the eponymous show girl, and Rita Moreno as her mentor and friend. The story centers around Warren's character, Marla, a talented dancer with a strong desire to succeed in the entertainment industry. Marla is introduced as a struggling performer, working odd jobs to make ends meet while auditioning for any role she can find. After a chance encounter with the veteran dancer, Lila, played by Moreno, Marla finds herself with a newfound confidence and sense of purpose.

The two women quickly become close friends, and Lila takes Marla under her wing, showing her the ropes of the business and helping her to navigate the often cutthroat world of show business. Together, they work to land a spot in a new Broadway show, with Marla determined to prove herself as a talented performer and Lila eager to pass on her wisdom to the next generation of dancers.

Throughout the film, Warren captures the essence of a young woman chasing her dreams with humor and vulnerability. She makes Marla a relatable character, with her struggles and triumphs ringing true to anyone who has ever fought to make their dreams come true. Alongside Warren, Moreno delivers a fantastic performance as the wise and experienced Lila, bringing a depth and richness to their friendship that is a joy to watch.

As the two women work towards their dream of landing a role in the new show, the film also explores some of the darker corners of the entertainment industry. Auditions are rife with harassment, rumors and gossip spread quickly, and the final casting process is fraught with tension and drama. Yet Marla and Lila maintain their sense of humor and camaraderie throughout, never losing sight of their goal despite the obstacles in their way.

One of the strengths of Portrait of a Show Girl is its excellent musical numbers. From intimate ballads to upbeat dance routines, the film's soundtrack is filled with catchy tunes that showcase the talents of its stars. Warren in particular shines in these sequences, capturing the joy and energy of her character through dance and song.

At its heart, Portrait of a Show Girl is a story about friendship, determination, and the power of chasing your dreams. It's a movie that celebrates the beauty and glamour of the entertainment industry while also acknowledging the challenges that come with it. With fantastic performances from both Warren and Moreno, and a strong script that balances comedy and drama with skill, it's a film that's sure to delight fans of musicals and drama alike.

In conclusion, Portrait of a Show Girl is a must-see film for anyone who loves musicals or stories about chasing your dreams. With its talented cast, engaging storylines, and stellar musical sequences, it's a film that's sure to entertain and inspire audiences for years to come.

Portrait of a Show Girl is a 1982 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 36 minutes.