In LA VIOLETERA, a lavish Italo-Spanish co-produced musical (a rarity) in itself, Spanish entertainment legend (singer, actress, cabaret performer, etc.) Sarita Montiel is at her zenith. This film, released in 1958 was a sensation in the Spanish speaking world, and newer generations know it and see it over and over again with their kids. Today it is, of course, very dated, and so melodramatic as to seem like a spoof. However, in its time, the film emulated Hollywood musicals and melodramas, and succeeded. It features very popular songs, and displays typically Spanish (Madrid) folklore. LA VIOLETERA came on the heels of EL ULTIMO CUPLE's success (in 1957), and cemented Sarita Montiel as the Spanish Judy Garland and Lana Turner, all in one. She was also the Spanish world's greatest sex symbol at a time of extreme repression. Still in late 1999, at age 68 to 70, she still tours worldwide, sings and dances up a storm. A nostalgic trip worth experiencing!
Review of La violetera
