Helen Morgan Story

The Helen Morgan Story is a biopic from 1957 about the tumultuous life of the famous torch singer Helen Morgan, played by Ann Blyth. The movie features a star-studded cast, including Paul Newman as a choreographer and romantic interest, and Richard Carlson as her husband.

The film begins with Morgan's humble beginnings in St. Joseph, Missouri, as a small-town girl with a dream of becoming a star. She moves to New York City and, after a series of non-starts, finally lands a job as a chorus girl. The camera follows her ups and downs as she navigates the tough world of showbiz, often relying on her wit and quick thinking to stay afloat.

Morgan's rise to fame comes through her signature cocktail of talent and grit. She sings with a rawness and honesty that sets her apart from other performers, and her unbridled charm and sex appeal makes her a fan favorite. She soon rises to the top of the nightclub scene, performing at top venues like the Cotton Club and the Ziegfeld Follies.

But the road to success is not without its hurdles. Morgan's romantic life is complicated by the men in her life, including her abusive husband Larry Maddux (played by Richard Carlson), who uses her fame and fortune to fuel his own gambling and alcohol addictions. She also battles with her own demons, including stage fright and an addiction to alcohol and drugs.

Throughout the movie, we see flashbacks to Morgan's past, where we learn that she was raised in a brothel by her alcoholic mother. These flashbacks offer insight into the character's motivation and explain some of her more tumultuous choices.

Despite her personal struggles, Morgan continues to captivate audiences with her unique style and piercing voice. She remains a beloved performer until her untimely death at the age of 41.

Overall, The Helen Morgan Story is a moving and well-crafted biopic, with incredible performances from its stars. Ann Blyth is especially commendable for her portrayal of Morgan, capturing both the performer's raw talent and her internal demons. Fans of classic movies and music will appreciate this heartfelt tribute to a true icon of the stage.