Jane Russell - Der Star aus dem Heu (2006)

Documentary about the American actress Jane Russell.

Introduction
"Jane Russell - Der Star aus dem Heu" is a 2006 documentary film, which focuses on the life and profession of the iconic Hollywood actress Jane Russell. Known for her voluptuous figure and sultry looks, Russell rose to popularity during the 1940s and 1950s. The documentary delves into Russell's individual life, her filmography, and the cultural effect she had as one of the period's most popular film stars. It provides an in-depth take a look at her journey from a small-town lady to a renowned Hollywood legend.

Early Life and Discovery
The movie starts by detailing Jane Russell's early life, exploring her upbringing in the American Midwest. Jane was born upon June 21, 1921, in Bemidji, Minnesota. The documentary demonstrates how her household background and religious training influenced her individual and professional life. Her discovery by billionaire Howard Hughes is highlighted as a pivotal moment that launched her career. Hughes cast her in the motion picture "The Outlaw", which gained notoriety and publicity due to Jane's exposing costumes and the film's intriguing promotional product, despite heavy censorship problems at the time.

Rise to Fame and Hollywood Success
Jane Russell's rise to popularity is completely illustrated in the documentary. It showcases her breakthrough film, "The Outlaw", and how Hughes' marketing strategies made her popular even before the motion picture was commonly released. The filmmakers look into her subsequent cinematic works, including her performances in "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes", where she starred alongside Marilyn Monroe, and "The Paleface", matching her with Bob Hope. Her on-screen persona as a sassy, confident lady is examined, and the film examines how her skill for funny and singing matched her sex symbol image.

The Cultural Impact of Jane Russell
An essential aspect of "Jane Russell - Der Star aus dem Heu" is its evaluation of Jane's status as one of the very first sex symbols in Hollywood and her cultural effect. The film discusses the altering attitudes towards sexuality in cinema and society at the time, and how Jane Russell played a significant role in this transition. It stresses the influence of her characters in breaking taboos and pushing the borders of appropriate on-screen femininity. The documentary also touches on her track record for defying the age's restrictive values, both on and off the screen.

Personal Life and Off-Screen Achievements
Besides her film profession, the documentary commemorates Jane Russell's personal life, including her marital relationships, family, and humanitarian work. Despite her Hollywood popularity, the film portrays Russell as grounded and deeply committed to her family and her faith. It covers her struggles with fertility, leading her to adopt children and establish the World Adoption International Fund. Jane's work with the organization and her efforts to enhance the process of adoption for American households are highlighted. The documentary also notes her active engagement in politics and conservative causes later in life.

Tradition and Conclusion
The film concludes with an expedition of Jane Russell's enduring legacy within film history. It discusses her retreat from the limelight and how, in spite of her reduced presence in the industry in later years, she stayed renowned for her contributions to movie and popular culture. Interviews with film historians, pals, and associates paint an image of a female who challenged norms and left an enduring mark on Hollywood. "Jane Russell - Der Star aus dem Heu" captures the spirit of a starlet who was much more than just a screen siren, remembering her as a multifaceted person with an abundant individual life and a committed advocate for adoption.

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