AMW did play heroines, sometimes “anti-heroes”. Unfortunate, from my view, that her comedic talents weren’t used much in sound movies-no “screwball comedy” roles. For me, that limitation is the most unfortunate.
Yes, it's too bad we only catch a glimpse of her comedic powers in the pie-throwing scene from Elstree Calling.
It's worth noting that the best "heroine" parts AMW played were of her own devising and/or an outcome of her lobbying for better parts, as in the films she made at Paramount in the late 1930s like Daughter of Shanghai and King of Chinatown.
This is a wonderful post, Katie! It reminded me to share this gorgeous and mesmerizing short film about Afong Moy: https://www.nowness.asia/series/nowness-shorts/astonishing-little-feet by Director Maegan Houang . Thank you for your dedication to this history and to AMW!
Marvelous short video!
I so agree with your statement. i admire you for presenting this, agree with you and most of all thank you being you!
Katie, this is profound and I stand with you 100%.
AMW did play heroines, sometimes “anti-heroes”. Unfortunate, from my view, that her comedic talents weren’t used much in sound movies-no “screwball comedy” roles. For me, that limitation is the most unfortunate.
Yes, it's too bad we only catch a glimpse of her comedic powers in the pie-throwing scene from Elstree Calling.
It's worth noting that the best "heroine" parts AMW played were of her own devising and/or an outcome of her lobbying for better parts, as in the films she made at Paramount in the late 1930s like Daughter of Shanghai and King of Chinatown.
Another brilliant essay! Thank you! I'm ordering my copy of Not Your China Doll today and am eager to read it!
Thank you--and happy reading!
This is a fantastic post. Will definitely share with others.
Thank you for this! So thrilled that people like you are celebrating the legend that is AMW. Can’t wait to get my hands on a copy of the book.