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One sheet 1954 musical film
The Student Prince, directed by Richard Thorpe and produced by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM).
The film is an adaptation of the 1924 operetta by Sigmund Romberg and Dorothy Donnelly, which was itself based on the 1901 play Old Heidelberg. It was notably one of MGM's first three films released in the CinemaScope wide-screen format.
Cast and "The Singing Voice"
While the poster prominently lists Edmund Purdom as the star, his singing was actually dubbed by the famous American tenor Mario Lanza.
The Switch: Lanza was originally cast to star in the film and had already recorded the soundtrack. However, due to artistic disagreements with the original director, Curtis Bernhardt, and studio disputes regarding his weight and behavior, Lanza either walked off the set or was dismissed.
The Solution: MGM replaced Lanza with the lesser-known British actor Edmund Purdom but, per a legal agreement, used Lanza's pre-recorded vocals for the film's songs.
Leading Lady: Ann Blyth plays the barmaid Kathie; she had previously starred with Lanza in The Great Caruso (1951).
Key Film Details
Plot: A young prince of a small German kingdom is sent to the University of Heidelberg to learn to socialize. He falls in love with a barmaid but must eventually choose between his personal happiness and his royal duty.
Music: Features popular songs like "Serenade," "Drink! Drink! Drink!" and "I'll Walk with God".
Release Date: June 15, 1954. |
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