Les Girls is a vibrant musical comedy that unravels the conflicting memories of a glamorous dance troupe, centering on a libel lawsuit triggered by a tell-all memoir.
The film delves into the "he-said, she-said" nature of friendships and relationships within a professional dance group, as different perspectives on past events emerge.
Unraveling a Showbiz Memoir
The story kicks off when Sybil Wren (Kay Kendall), a dancer from a once-famous troupe, decides to publish a memoir detailing her experiences. This tell-all book, however, incenses her former peers, Angele Ducros (Taina Elg) and Joy Henderson (Mitzi Gaynor), leading them to file a lawsuit against her for libel.
The Core Conflict: Whose Story is True?
As the legal battle unfolds, the audience is presented with a fascinating narrative structure where each of the women, as well as Barry Nichols (Gene Kelly)—the mastermind behind their successful dance troupe—offers their own version of the events. Accusations of affairs and various romantic entanglements fly between them, revealing how differing memories and personal biases can dramatically alter the perception of shared history. The film masterfully uses these conflicting accounts to slowly reveal the truth, often with humorous and surprising twists.
Key Players in the Drama
The central characters who drive the story are:
| Character | Actor | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Sybil Wren | Kay Kendall | Dancer and author of the controversial memoir. |
| Angele Ducros | Taina Elg | Former troupe member and one of the plaintiffs. |
| Joy Henderson | Mitzi Gaynor | Former troupe member and another plaintiff. |
| Barry Nichols | Gene Kelly | The charismatic leader and choreographer of the dance troupe, who presents his unique perspective on their shared past. |
A Musical Journey to Truth
Beyond the courtroom drama, Les Girls is a full-fledged musical, incorporating lively and extravagant musical numbers that are integral to the storytelling. These performances not only entertain but also help to illuminate the characters' feelings and the underlying truths of their intertwined histories. The movie is celebrated for its stylish choreography, vibrant costumes, and captivating performances, making the revelation of truth a thoroughly entertaining journey.
For more information about Les Girls, you can explore resources like IMDb or Turner Classic Movies.
