Based on the life of Florenz “Flo” Ziegfeld Jr., the legendary impresario behind the Ziegfeld Follies, this spectacular MGM production is chockablock with stars and extras, with certain musical numbers choreographed for over 150 performers. Nominated in seven categories, the film won for Best Picture, Best Actress (Luise Rainer as actor Anna Held), and Dance Direction for choreographer Seymour Felix. Unique for its rare film performance by Fanny Brice (her image survives in fewer than eight movies), Brice’s Jewish roots and myriad talents are captured for posterity in just 10 minutes of this sweeping biopic that underscores Ziegfeld’s massive influence on 20th century American entertainment.

Content advisory: This film contains a performance with a white actor in blackface.