Give a Girl a Break Poster

Give a Girl a Break 1953

★ 5.317 votes82 min📅 1953-11-13

Dive into the sparkling world of early-50s Broadway with Stanley Donen's effervescent musical comedy, *Give a Girl a Break* (1953).

Director: Stanley Donen

Cast

Marge Champion
Marge Champion
Madelyn Corlane
Gower Champion
Gower Champion
Ted Sturgis
Debbie Reynolds
Debbie Reynolds
Suzy Doolittle
Dolly Sharp
Dolly Sharp
Mrs. Olga Bradshaw / Joanna Moss (as Helen Wood)
Bob Fosse
Bob Fosse
Bob Dowdy
Kurt Kasznar
Kurt Kasznar
Leo Belney
Richard Anderson
Richard Anderson
Burton Bradshaw
William Ching
William Ching
Anson Prichett
Lurene Tuttle
Lurene Tuttle
Mrs. Doolittle
Larry Keating
Larry Keating
Felix Jordan

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Give a Girl a Break (1953) about?

When a Broadway star walks out mid-rehearsal, a desperate director opens auditions to unknowns. The film follows three hopefuls—each with their own strengths and flaws—as they compete for a life-changing role, all while navigating love, ambition, and the pressures of show business.

Who directed Give a Girl a Break?

The film was directed by Stanley Donen, a master of classic Hollywood musicals known for his innovative choreography and dynamic visual storytelling.

Who stars in Give a Girl a Break?

The film features Marge Champion, Gower Champion, Debbie Reynolds, Dolly Sharp, Bob Fosse, and Kurt Kasznar in its standout ensemble cast.

Is Give a Girl a Break (1953) worth watching?

Fans of vintage musicals will love its lively energy, clever plot, and nostalgic charm. While not as widely remembered as some of Donen's later works, it's a hidden gem worth rediscovering, especially for those who enjoy backstage stories and toe-tapping routines.

How long is Give a Girl a Break?

The film runs for 82 minutes, making it a perfect pick for a short, uplifting movie night.

🎥 Trailer

About Give a Girl a Break (1953) — A Dazzling Backstage Musical Comedy

Dive into the sparkling world of early-50s Broadway with Stanley Donen's effervescent musical comedy, *Give a Girl a Break* (1953). Set against the backdrop of a high-stakes new revue in rehearsal, the film follows the chaos and charm that unfolds when a temperamental star storms out, leaving the door wide open for fresh talent. Under the guidance of director-choreographer Ted Sturgis (Kurt Kasznar), an unlikely trio of hopefuls—each brimming with ambition and star quality—gets their shot at the spotlight. Led by the poised ballerina Joanna Moss (Marge Champion), the earnest gofer Bob Dowdy (Bob Fosse), and the returning diva Madelyn Corlan (Dolly Sharp), they navigate the cutthroat yet exhilarating world of showbiz, where dreams and egos collide.

With its infectious musical numbers, sharp wit, and behind-the-scenes glamour, *Give a Girl a Break* captures the magic of backstage life, blending romance, comedy, and show-stopping choreography. The film's breezy pace and playful tone make it a delightful snapshot of an era when musicals were at their most dazzling, proving that sometimes, breaking in is the best way to shine.