Julie Andrews: Beyond The Sound of Music
When discussing the legendary entertainer Julie Andrews, The Sound of Music often comes to mind first. It's a masterpiece that brought Andrews global acclaim and cemented her status as a classic Hollywood star. However, critics and fans alike might debate the idea of which of her roles truly stands out as the best. In this article, we explore some of her most memorable performances and why they may hold a special place in her career.
The Sound of Music's Enduring Legacy
The Sound of Music, released in 1965, marked a pivotal moment in Andrews' career. It wasn't just a popular movie; it became a cultural phenomenon. The film's score, featuring hits like 'Do-Re-Mi' and 'My Favorite Things,' remains beloved by audiences worldwide. Indeed, her portrayal of Maria, the enthusiastic and lovable nun, is one of the most iconic in film history.
When Is a Movie Not Her Best?
Some might argue that The Sound of Music is so iconic that it serves as a benchmark for her best work. However, there are other roles that showcased Andrews in a way that The Sound of Music did not. For instance, she starred in a wide array of films, from comedic to dramatic, each of which contributed to her versatility as an actress.
The Americanization of Emily (1964)
The Americanization of Emily, released in the same year as The Sound of Music, was a stark contrast to her role as Maria. In this film, Andrews played Emily Pendleton, a pregnant American woman who travels abroad, where she is blackmailed by a Frenchman. This role required her to explore a darker side of her acting range, which many critics and audiences welcomed.
Victor Victoria (1982)
Victor Victoria, perhaps the most critically acclaimed performance of her career, was released in 1982. In this film, Andrews plays a man named Victor, a female impersonator who goes through a series of comedic and dramatic situations. This role allowed her to showcase her singing talents as well as her dramatic range. The film won her a Golden Globe and gained her a second Academy Award nomination in 1984, cementing her status as a serious actress.
More Than Just a Singing Star
While The Sound of Music is undoubtedly a highlight of Julie Andrews' career, it would be a disservice to consider her as nothing more than a singing star. In films like The Americanization of Emily and Victor Victoria, Andrews was able to explore a more complex and dramatic acting range. These performances, particularly in Victor Victoria, showcased her ability to carry a film entirely on her own.
A Single Iconic Scene: ?Three Guesses”
Even among her many memorable scenes, one stands out as particularly iconic. In the film Darling Lili (1967), Andrews performs a striptease number called "Three Guesses." This scene, known for its humor and ingenuity, highlights the versatility Andrews brought to the role. While the scene itself is well-documented, it's a testament to her willingness to take on challenging and unconventional roles.
Conclusion: A Versatile Performer
Ultimately, while The Sound of Music remains Julie Andrews' most recognized role, it's only one part of her extensive and diverse career. In roles such as The Americanization of Emily, Victor Victoria, and Darling Lili, she demonstrated her ability to be a comedy star, a dramatic actress, and a fearless performer. These performances, as well as many others throughout her career, cemented her status as one of the most beloved and respected actresses in the industry.