Lucille Ball Film Collection

The Lucille Ball Film Collection includes five films that showcase Lucy's diverse movie career, from her early roles to her final big-screen appearance. Lucy's journey began in 1933 when she moved from New York to Hollywood, appearing in over 40 films with mostly uncredited showgirl roles before landing a breakthrough role in 1937's Stage Door. As Lucy's star rose, she showcased her talent alongside famous actors like Maureen O'Hara and Ralph Bellamy in films like Dance, Girl, Dance and The Big Street.

In 1942, Lucy took on a different role in The Big Street, playing a selfish nightclub diva opposite Henry Fonda. Du Barry Was a Lady followed in 1943, marking Lucy's debut in a colored film and introducing her iconic red hair recommended by Hollywood stylist Sydney Guilaroff. By the time Lucy starred in Critic's Choice in 1963, she had become a beloved TV comedienne, with her film career winding down.

Mame, released in 1974, served as Lucy's final big-screen appearance, despite receiving criticism for her age. Nevertheless, the film has gained a loyal following, especially within the gay community, for its campy charm. It serves as a testament to Lucy's determination and show-business legacy. Each DVD in The Lucille Ball Film Collection offers bonus features from the Warner Bros. archives, providing a glimpse into the original theatrical experience of these films. Notably, the Technicolor brilliance of Du Barry Was a Lady is preserved in exceptional picture and sound quality.

The DVD release of Mame includes a mono soundtrack due to technical constraints, but overall, the picture and sound quality of the collection are top-notch. Bonus features on the DVD of Critic's Choice include early screen appearances of Bob Hope and an Oscar-nominated cartoon by Chuck Jones, offering a well-rounded viewing experience for fans of classic Hollywood cinema.

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