High Society (1956): A Golden Age Musical Masterpiece
Released in 1956, High Society is a sparkling American musical romantic comedy that captures the elegance and wit of mid-century cinema. Directed by Charles Walters and produced by Sol C. Siegel for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, the film is a lavish adaptation of Philip Barry's 1939 play, The Philadelphia Story. Shot in the stunning VistaVision (a high-resolution widescreen process) and Technicolor, the movie is as much a visual feast as it is a musical one.
The film is perhaps best remembered for its legendary cast, bringing together three of the biggest stars of the era: Bing Crosby, Grace Kelly, and Frank Sinatra. With a sophisticated score by the iconic Cole Porter, High Society blends high-society drama with the rhythmic energy of jazz.
Key Facts
- Release Date: July 17, 1956
- Lead Cast: Bing Crosby, Grace Kelly, and Frank Sinatra
- Music: Composed by Cole Porter, featuring Louis Armstrong
- Budget: $2.8 million
- Box Office: $8.2 million (rentals)
- Legacy: Added to the National Film Registry in 2025 for its cultural and aesthetic significance
Plot and Themes
The story centers on Tracy Samantha Lord (Grace Kelly), a wealthy socialite in Newport, Rhode Island, who is preparing to marry the snobbish George Kittredge. However, her world is turned upside down by the arrival of her ex-husband, C.K. Dexter Haven (Bing Crosby), a successful jazz musician who still harbors feelings for her.
Adding to the chaos is Mike Connor (Frank Sinatra), a tabloid reporter who has been coerced into covering the wedding. As Tracy navigates her feelings for the sophisticated Dexter and the grounded Mike, she undergoes a journey of self-discovery, eventually realizing that her fiancé does not truly know her. The tension culminates in a series of romantic misunderstandings and musical revelations, leading Tracy to choose the man she truly loves.
Production and Behind-the-Scenes
Filming took place between January and March 1956, primarily at Clarendon Court in Newport, Rhode Island. The production cleverly integrated the real-world Newport Jazz Festival into the narrative, allowing the characters to interact with jazz legend Louis Armstrong, who appears as himself along with his band.
The film holds a special place in cinema history as Grace Kelly's final professional role before her marriage to Prince Rainier III of Monaco. Interestingly, Kelly wore her actual Cartier engagement ring during filming. While rumors of a rivalry between Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra persisted—with some biographers suggesting a professional distance between the two—Turner Classic Movies reports that the pair worked together amicably on set.
The Musical Score
Producer Sol C. Siegel paid Cole Porter $250,000 for the original score, which produced timeless standards such as "True Love" and "You're Sensational." The film also features the playful duet "Well, Did You Evah!", which was added late in production to ensure Crosby and Sinatra had a collaborative musical moment.
Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, High Society received mixed reviews. Some critics, such as those from The New York Times, felt it lacked the "snap" of the 1940 non-musical version, The Philadelphia Story. However, others praised it as a "pleasant romp" with a strong score. Despite the critical divide, it was a commercial hit, ranking among the top 10 highest-grossing films of 1956 in the US and Canada.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Director | Charles Walters |
| Screenplay | John Patrick |
| Cinematography | Paul C. Vogel |
| Running Time | 111 minutes |
| Academy Award Nominations | Best Scoring of a Musical Picture, Best Song ("True Love") |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is High Society a remake of another movie?
Yes, it is a musical remake of the 1940 screwball comedy The Philadelphia Story, which was itself based on a 1939 play by Philip Barry.
Who composed the music for the film?
The music and lyrics were written by the legendary Cole Porter, and the film features performances by Louis Armstrong and his band.
What is the significance of Grace Kelly's role in this film?
This was Grace Kelly's final professional acting appearance before she married Prince Rainier III and became the Princess consort of Monaco.
Did the film win any Academy Awards?
The film was nominated for two Academy Awards: Best Scoring of a Musical Picture and Best Song for "True Love," though it did not win.
Where can the sailboat from the movie be found today?
The sailboat "True Love" (originally the "Venona II") currently operates as an excursion boat for Seneca Sailing Adventures, LLC on Seneca Lake in Watkins Glen, NY.