April in Paris, Metro Goldwyn Mayer's smash hit of 1952, offers a window into the sexual identity and politics of that distant era. Doris Day stars as an all-American chorus girl who's mistakenly sent to chic French capitol in place of an older, more established actress with a similar name.
In the poster for this film, Ms. Day is a literal whirlwind. As the star, she appears dominant, front and center -- but hovering at her heels are clear depictions of the female's bifurcated role in society. To the left, three scantily-clad showgirls stand, awaiting male approval. To the right, a showgirl is hoisted into the air (and metaphorically celebrated) by two athletic males. Below, an attractive dancer is literally bent over backwards by her mate. If these images hint at the contradictory roles of Ms. Day's carefree career woman, the muted hues and monochromatic coloring clearly communicate their concern.
Meanwhile, to the right, Ray Bolger tries to get a look at her vagina.
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