Studio: Paramount Home Video Release Date: 05/01/2007 Rating: Pg
One simple question, people: Do you know where you're goin' to? And furthermore, Do you like the things that life is showin' you? These questions are posed in the unavoidable theme song (a huge Seventies hit) from Mahogany, a splashy, diva-sized vehicle for Diana Ross. Miss Ross was hot off her unexpected and critically approved starring role in Lady Sings the Blues when she embarked on this musical, a rags-to-riches saga of a Chicago girl who dreams of being a fashion designer but becomes a supermodel instead. Original director Tony Richardson was replaced behind the camera by Motown founder and puppetmaster supreme Berry Gordy, who knew something about turning Ross into an idealized vision of femininity (for more on their relationship, check out the fictionalized version in Dreamgirls).
Ross looks a little overwhelmed by the plot machinations, which take her from the orbit of a regular-guy activist (Billy Dee Williams) into the glam world of European fashion--the latter courtesy of a cranky, unstable photographer played by Anthony Perkins. Perkins is sky-high fun in this thing, as though he suspected the movie was in trouble and decided to let the tics and nerviness fly. These days Mahogany is treasured either as a fond childhood memory or as a ripe camp-fest, and that's probably about where it belongs. Still, it looks positively restrained next to the other big diva musical of the same historical moment, Barbra Streisand's 1976 A Star is Born. --Robert Horton
Customer Reviews:
a great guilty pleasure try as i may, i cannot warm to diana ross' film debut as billie holiday in 'lady sings the blues'. her nervy, jittery energy leaves only when she sings the songs, which she does very well. and nothing except that music helps her find her way back to the 1930s and 1940s.
but her contemporary self finds a great home in her next film 'mahagony'. the first third of the film, the part that tony richardson was responsible for, is tight! it's a great set-up for a good hollywood-style romantic dramedy. ross' tracy is the consummate ambitious career girl and her swain brian is a fabulous foil for her in the body of the very sexy billy dee williams. it is easy to compare them to crawford and gable. the banter, his moustache and her wild and crazy clothes make the comparison that much easier.
not to mention, the first scenes featuring anthony perkins as sean, the photographer that discovers tracy and turns her in to a 1970s supermodel. had they let perkins stay gay, instead letting him go sexually frustrated and loony like he does, this film could have been another 'darling' and perkins could have maybe gotten away from his mold of playing maladjusted crazies.
many actors in the cast in smaller roles like nina foch, marisa mell and beah richards deserve so much more too because they give so much in the little bit of role they do have. but they're there and that's something.
sadly when the film reunites tracy with brian does it lose its heart and energy--save the restaurant scene. that's funny!
after this, ross gets arch and mannered, not to mention shrill. jean-pierre aumont is a sleepwalking disappointment as her italian(maybe)lover and benefactor. williams does a little sleepwalking too. and for that, it's hard to figure out why they're even brought back together. because black people needed a happy ending to a movie? i have a feeling our community would have seen this movie no matter what the ending.
because no matter how i may feel now with my highfalutin opining, i loved the film when it came out. i loved the clothes, the montages, ross' manic onscreen persona and the use of chicago as a backdrop. i know this is what turned my on to movies as much as sunday movie greats on channel nine in chicago. and man was i disappointed when 'theme from mahagony' lost the academy award. all of black america heaved a collective sob on that one. but in the name of love and justice, which song is a karoake classic now, keith carradine?...more info
Mahogany,Fantastic 70s Film This is one classic movie from the 70s Terrific move.Dianna Ross & Cast are great.One thing though,for being such a great movie of the 70s why does Paramount put this Dvd out with not much thought?.I gave it 4 stars only because the least the studio could have done is re-master the sound in stereo.
I mean come on in this day and age is it that hard Paramount Studios? Extras would have been great too.Iwould have even paid a few extra bucks if even the sound would have been re-mastered.Great movie & story though & a piece of 70s History & Miss Ross....more info
MAHOGANY EXCELLENT MOVIE...RECEIVED IN NEW CONDITION IN A MATTER OF DAYS...I WAS VERY SURPRISED...THE MOVIE ITSELF BROUGHT BACK MEMORIES...DIANA ROSS LOOKS LIKE MY MOTHER WHEN SHE WAS YOUNGER...SHE IS DOING SOME SUPERB ACTING IN THIS MOVIE..I'M VERY HAPPY WITH THE PURCHASE...more info
SOUNDTRACK........ 2000. NICE TO READ ALL THE THOUGHTS, OF THE FANS OF THIS LOVELY MOVIE...., BUT NO ONR HAS MENTIONED THE SOUNDTRACK ALBUM, AND NOW, CD, THAT IS OUT THERE. THE FILMS MUSIC IS SO BEAUTIFUL, AND LUSH, ESPECIALLY, ON THE NEW CD REMASTERED VERSION. SO GO GET IT!!!! ONE OF MY FAV. SOUNDTRACKS, ALONG WITH, "THE WAY WE WERE", SOUNDTRACK....more info
Pure escapism "Success is nothing without someone you love to share it with." Yeah, okay.
You know this story had to be a fantasy! Because no one in their right mind is going to turn their back on a glamorous career that is earning them millions of dollars just because they think they can't live without the person they love. This is the stuff that fairy tales are made of, and "Mahogany" is sort of a modern day urban fairy tale, one that we can't really believe would happen if this was a true story. The old Hollywood formulas and cliches for love stories are in full effect here. For all that money, you could find PLENTY of people to love you...LOL. But I do admit, I enjoyed this film. It's one of my guilty pleasures.
The idea of this film was to create a project for Diana Ross where she would not have to sing a single note in it like she did in "Lady Sings The Blues", and the focus would be on her acting skills. Diana did, however, sing the theme song ("Do You Know Where You're Going To") for the movie. With Motown CEO Berry Gordy, Jr. in the director's chair (the original director, Tony Richardson, quit after Gordy's constant meddling), Ross portrays Tracy, a secretary/aspiring fashion student who has dreams of making it big and getting out of the Chicago ghetto where she lives. She is very convincing as well...very diva-ish and overdramatic. Anthony Perkins' role as the deranged Sean (aka Norman Bates turned a jealous and possessive high-fashion photographer) is clearly the best role in the entire film. Although "One Flew Over the Cookoo's Nest" star Jack Nicholson was originally the first choice for this role, Perkins plays his part to the hilt and really looks like he is enjoying himself. He helps Tracy get in the business as a model, but only sees her as a product and doesn't want to nurture her need to be independent or her true desire to be a designer. This is where these two constantly bump heads throughout the film. Perkins steals this film and was predictably humorous but also very creepy, especially when he has a confrontation with Billy Dee Williams at a party and reveals himself to be totally psychotic.
Based on the excellent chemistry he and Ross displayed in "Lady Sings The Blues", Billy Dee Williams was again paired with Ross in this movie as Brian, Tracy's love interest. He is the one who spouts that famous line from this movie, but yet when Tracy attempts to share her success with him, he doesn't want it. But this movie is great to watch...a little campy, but yet very entertaining. Get it and grab the popcorn. You'll like it....more info
Mahogany... I've always liked watching this movie. I've watched it over and over again on television over the years. I'm so glad it finally came to dvd. I'm sure I'll watch this movie even more, now that I own a copy. Diana Ross is as beautiful a black woman you'd ever want to see in this movie.
Plus I just love watching my man Billy Dee Williams "my future husband."
A camp classic Like so many divas before her and after her, "La Ross" shines in this 1975 camp classic which exemplifies the cliche saying "it's lonely at the top."
The gowns, the glamour, the nails and the youth of Miss Ross are unparalleled. She was beyond fabulous and at the height of her artistic zenith. The montage is especially pleasing and one can only fantasize about being in Rome in the mid 70's while swathed in those fantastic creations and Fendi and Maximillian furs (read the credits).
Substantively, the film is not to be taken seriously....but I agree with one reviewer's assessment back then who said that it is "testament to how glorious it is to be Diana Ross." I wholeheartedly agree....more info
Do you know where you're going to? Classic Ebony theatre, Diana Ross should have Academy Awards for this epic. Definately a pioneer movie to Black theater. ...more info
1975 A mid-70s time capsule for urban chic. Sometimes I felt like I was stepping into the cover art of a Miles Davis album cover. Sometimes not. Diana Ross.. who better to demonstrate 70s 'cool' (or at least 'the look')? Italy makes a great backdrop as well. I enjoyed the scenes of her when she wasn't with her goofy politician boyfriend (aka 'Lando Calrissian). Anthony Perkins was not bad as the photographer, even has some likable moments as a character, though you always have the feeling he's about to go psycho. Four stars may be a little high for this film. It's way schmaltzy, and the acting occasionally leaves a little to be desired, but the story keeps moving and I found the subject of photography interesting in addition to a mid-70s Diana Ross in Rome. As a movie, it tries to be more than it is - is success more important than love? In Lando Calrissian's view, success means nothing if you don't have anyone to share it with. As Tracy (Diana Ross) does begin to 'make it' she suddenly finds herself "empty" - an interesting theme - problem is I didn't really buy it. I didn't beleive Lando's words and personage could have such effect on her, as in reality she seemed too wrapped up in herself - her world, her fashion designs, her fame - for me to beleive she cared about him. And her 'awakening to the truth' seemed less than beleivable. Actually this movie had it's too predictable and annoying moments as well, but I didn't regret seeing it though I probably should have given it 3 stars....more info
Finally on DVD!! No doubt all the press surrounding "Dreamgirls" got this old Motown produced flick unearthed again. The VHS pressings of this movie have long been out of print. Bootleg DVDs have been floating around for years. I hope this legit DVD release has outtakes and deleted scenes. The back story of this movie is that Berry Gordy took over as director after the original director wanted out of the production. Ross even left the set alot to cry in her trailer. Tension between her and Gordy was boiling.
Producer Gordy had alot riding on the movie and just really stressed his
diva out. But, in the end, they produced a memorable film. It still holds up after all these years....more info
DIRTY DIANA!!! I liked this movie a lot - I hated the way it ended.....she lives in Europe and becomes a big star in the fashion world, then moves back to the ghetto in Chicago to marry a lowly politician - yeah right!! Otherwise, I loved seeing Diana in this light with the fashion, makeup, and her sheer energy. Also, I loved Anthony Perkins, who played a physchotic photographer who wanted to possess Diana...This man was more physcho in this movie, than he ever was in his 1950's movie, "Physcho."...more info
Tracy Chambers could not look any better I loved this movie when it first came out, and love it now, not because of its great performances, because Diana Ross, had given previously an Oscar winner performance in Lady Sings The Blues and this one was not by far close to it, but it was Diana Ross, we wanted to see her larger than life, the clothe, the fabulous european sceneries, and not to mention the background music, which includes the Theme from Mahagony " Do you know where you going to". I remember the lines at the theaters just to see DIANA ROSS. If you are a collector of DVDs and a fan, this you must buy....more info
love it or hate it.... keeping it simple...if you are in the right frame of mind, this movie is wonderful in it's simplicty and positve message. if you are feeling cynical and negative, there is plenty to complain about, get over it, and enjoy a wonderful fairy tale about love and dreams and success and failure....more info
Wonderful Masterpiece by Berry Gordy Mahogany is a Wonderul black love story of a woman raised in Chicago's inner city ghetto (Diana Ross). She has dreams and aspirations of becoming a fashion designer and eventually achieves that goal. But when she leaves home to go to Rome to claim her fame as a model she learns that it's lonely at the top and she starts to miss home and her one true love (Billy Dee Williams) who she's forsaken. The movie has a great moral to the story simply put by Billy Dee Williams, What's sucess (money and fame) when you don't have no one to share it with. This was a great performance by both actors....more info
So Bad It's Good This movie falls under "My Guilty Pleasures". The early scenes are set in Chicago, and it brings me some nostalgia to see how the old 'L' trains used to look. The performances in this film can be categorized as camp and overdone, esp. that of Anthony Perkins, as a high strung photographer. The clothes are pure ugly, but you have to remember that was in style back in 1975....more info
Mahogany Inspiring, the best! So I bought this movie without having seen the movie....EXCELLENT!!! Maybe because it was directed by Berry Gordy, or maybe because Diana Ross and Billy Dee Williams as well as Anthony Perkins do a subperb job of acting. I'm no Diana Ross fan by any means, I perfer Patti over her any day. But this movie is very inspiring, for me wanting to be a fashion designer I feel compelled to design and have my designs out there on the runway. And I have wanted to be a model as well. Mahogany inspires me to get out there and do it. Berry Gordy did a great job. Billy Dee Williams was amazing as always, Anthony Perkins...they love getting him to play sneaky creepy character, but he was amazing. And if you can bear watching Diana Ross extremely skinny to the point that it's unhealthy (she believes she was anexoria and not knowing she may have been) then hats off to you, she was amazing and I can't stop looking at her, if this movie is remade I hope they get the right actors, but I wouldn't have it remade, it's wonderful, timeless, and classic....more info
Just As I Remember It The DVD version of MAHOGANY was just as I remember when I first saw it back in 1976. It would have been nice if they had some outtakes or a documentary of how the movie was developed and made. It would also have been nice to see the sketches of the garments that Diana Ross designed for the movie. I am happy to say that this movie was the catalyst for my career as a Fashion Designer....more info
Documenting Diana There is no need to film a bio on Miss Ross, anyone who is curious about the Diana Ross persona,her obsession with re-packaging her image and her crowd pleasing energy should be able to feast on all of the above in this very simple, light bit of entertainment fluff that is period perfect, complete with a campy runway show displaying Miss Ross' very amateur fashion designs. Her eye for style has always been much more successful in her real life on stage and off. Mohagany is about an ambitious fashion design student (Tracy chambers) coaxed into modeling( while toiling under the most uptight boss at a dept. store) and ending up the toast of (mid-seventies fashion hot spot)Rome.The re-named Mohagany is played with relish by Miss Ross at her physical peak with all the elements in place: the high-fashion skeletal frame, the elegantly graceful body language,the voluptuous lips, enormous eyes, perfectly chiseled button nose and sculpted cheekbones. All shown to stunning effect with her natural hair pulled tightly back. Miss Ross performs the mega-hit theme song in that instantly recognizable voice which could be described as velvet wrapped longing teetering on the brink of heartbreak. And simmering just beneath that delicate voice is the sass, the singleminded ambition, the will of steel, the ferocious drive,the anger-management issues, the diva-tantrums and of course, the man-troubles. Does she find love in the arms of the ernest ,underdog local politician played by Billy Dee williams whose life is the flip side of the decadent-glitzy fashion world or does she let a rich Italian sugar daddy provide her with her dream fashion empire.
The scene that really sums up that legendary Ross spirit is when she goes on her first casting/ go-see as a model. She faces a panel of jaded Italian advertising slime-balls who ridicule her on her lack of sex appeal (no T ,no A...or even legs!)...well, she fires back at them like a verbal machine gun, mowing 'em down while asserting her-SELF, physical and otherwise. They are left totally dumbfounded and to top it off, much to Ross' amazement, there happens to be one lone female (the owner of the agency no less)seated ,very quietly and indifferently -never looking up once- among the men. Well, she is totally blown away by the ROSS SPIRIT....and offers her the gig (a perfume ad) without any hesitation. It's no wonder, this happens to be the precise moment when la Ross is looking her chic-est and most uncharacteristically restrained in head to toe ivory (very 1930's vogue sketch). This great sweet, unexpected revenge scene dissolves right into one of the most mesmerizing cinematic montages of la Ross being photographed in a zillion different moods (innocent, artsy, vampy, sexy, coy, seductive, playful, fun, wild, strange, dramatic, glamorous, chic...)by the always peculiarly entertaining Anthony Perkins(perfectly cast, once again, as Mr. Oddball with multiple issue disorder). This sequence could quite possibly be the first cinematic moment extensively devoted to celebrating Black-Breathtaking-Gorgeousness....or "anything TWIGGY or LAUREN HUTTON can do", ROSS can OUT-DO! Not the least bit surprising for a woman who many note would compete with her own shadow...and WIN!!It's quite a mesmerizing montage and created over 30 years before the music video phenomenon that heavily stroked a music artist's vanity while their latest recording played in the background. Major props to Mr. Gordy on pulling this film together....and for succeeding in getting his ultimate creation's face out there decades before E-news and youtube took over the planet....more info
Mahogany...still rings true today My husband and I watched this movie together and thoroughly enjoyed it. It was so many things: it was a love story, a drama and had lots of comedy. Basically, it is a reminder of what's really important in life while taking you on a visually stunning ride that shows that all that glitters isn't gold. A beautiful movie...I highly recommend....more info
FINALLY! Even though Diana Ross didn't do that many movies, the ones she has done are classics! I hope 'Out of Darkness' comes out on DVD. I might do a backflip on that one!...more info
One of the best fashion movies ever! I first saw Mahogany on TV in the 70's. I remember the scene when the Italian millionaire jumps up and shouts "Twenty Million Lire!" and my grandmother said "that's sure an expensive dress."
Mahogany is one of my favorite movies of all time. I know it's not a "great" movie. It's not "Citizen Kane." But, if you love movies about fashion, you will LOVE this!
There are so many great things about Mahogany from a visual standpoint. The crazy Asian disco outfits with tubing were actually designed by Diana Ross herself. Think mid 70's Labelle. Just fabulous! The montage of Diana Ross modelling in Italy with the theme song playing is fantastic! The scene where Ross's character is hung over and making crazy faces wearing a white fur coat in a red Ferrari (I think it's a Ferrari)is hilarious. And, of course, you get to see La Ross's nipple when she fumbles with her robe.
Mahogany is pure camp fun. I own the VHS of it and can practically recite the entire film. I am so happy it is finally going to be available on DVD. ...more info
Mahogany The movie has a few flaws but once again Miss Ross shows us just how talented she is by designing all of the clothing for the movie. Plus having a number one hit song from the movie.It must be hard to be beautiful and talented....more info
Diana Ross is Lovely I Like it at the end when Diana says: "Then Mister you got my vote." The end is the best and she looks beautiful with that white hat on, her face is beautiful. I don't like the swearing though....more info
Mahogany I seen this movie in 1976 with my boyfriend at the age of 16 yrs old . It was a great movie then. and now in 2003 it is still a great movie even without that boyfriend. LOL...more info
FINALLY Coming to DVD Mahogany on DVD is the best present that I could ever get for my 30th birthday(besides an engagement ring, LOL). It's my FAVORITE movie of all time. Mahogany was filmed in my hometown Chicago and it features the Grand Duchess Diva Diana Ross. When Billy Dee says "Success is nothing without someone you love to share it with," my hearts melts every time. If you don't own it (I have it on VHS) BUY IT!! ...more info
THE MOVIE IS GREAT! THIS A GREAT DIANA ROSS MOVIE. THIS IS HER SECOND MOVIE THAT SHE MADE. THE STORY LINE IS OKAY BUT THE MAIN REASON TO WATCH IS THE FASHION! DIANA ROSS DESIGNED ALL THE COSTRUMES THAT SHE WORE AND MADE. THE MOVIE IS BETTER THAN I THOUGHT IT WOULD BE AND IS NOT AS GOOD AS LADY SINGS THE BLUES....more info
Diana Ross in a 70s Fantasy Classic DIANA ROSS has a face, svelte figure and elegance that transcended perfectly to the Silver Screen. Add to that a sparkling presence, and a raw instinct for the characters she portrays, and you have all the hallmarks of classic Hollywood actress.
After a stunning, Academy Award nominated and Golden Globe winning debut performance in "Lady Sings the Blues", Diana should have gone on to star in a dozen blockbusters. However, we live in a real world, and the reality of life in Hollywood at the time was far different. All the major actresses of colour during the 70s - Diahann Carroll, Cicely Tyson, Rosalind Cash and Pam Grier struggled to find substantial parts to portray, the "glass ceiling" hindering their progress. We need to bear this in mind when we look at films like "Mahogany".
"Mahogany" is a simple story of Tracy Chambers, an ambitions secretary and part-time fashion design student, who dreams of making it big but is faced with obstacles wherever she turns. Billy Dee Williams is back, this time playing an equally ambitious politician, who wants to transform the local Chicago ghetto. The two meet and fall in love, but clearly want different things.
Along comes an eccentric (if not deranged!), sought-after fashion photographer (played adeptly by Anthony Perkins), who spots Tracy's potential as a fashion model. The rest is history - Tracy jets off to Rome for a photo shoot, and becomes an international symbol of fashion and beauty. Sean builds up but then tries to sabotage Tracy's career, but she's rescued by a wealthy European socialite who helps her to become a world famous fashion designer. Diana plays the DIVA with wicked precision!
Some critics ripped "Mahogany" to shreds when it was released. After all, this was the 70s, and African American actors were busy portraying their Blaxploitaion roles - in other words, they were playing pimps, hookers and drug dealers. A love story between two attractive African Americans didn't quite fit the stereotype. I watched the movie around 3 years ago, with friends who aren't fans of Diana Ross. At they end of it, they thought it was quite good and that Diana's performance was commendable.
So, even to this day, the jury's out over the quality of the film. I would say that Diana Ross provided the right dreams at the right time. While Mahogany isn't her most polished performance (you need to look at OUT OF DARKNESS for that), it's a watchable movie nonetheless. Diana picked up a Best Actress French Oscar, the Cesar, for her performance, and it was rightly deserved.
If you're undecided as to whether to shell out on this film, I would say "get it" and make up your own mind. Grab a bowl of popcorn, get the flares out and take a trip down memory lane!
...more info
enjoy it for what it's worth Mahogany tells the story of Tracy Chambers (Diana Ross), a young woman from the Chicago ghetto who dreams endlessly of being a world-renowned fashion designer. The men in Tracy's life bolster Diana Ross as the film's leading actress. Far from being the perfect Ross vehicle I remembered it to be, when I watched this film this afternoon once again after many years, I found it somewhat superficial--even when showing Tracy's on-again off-again romance with political activist Brian Walker (Billy Dee Williams).
The action starts when Tracy is working in a department store--going nowhere fast. By luck she is noticed by famous and influential fashion photographer Sean McAvoy (Anthony Perkins). After some twists and turns in the plot, most of which serve only to extend the movie's running length, Tracy is fired from the store and she decides to join Sean McAvoy in Rome to be a designer instead of staying with the man who really loves her, Brian Walker.
Unfortunately for Tracy, the minute she arrives in Rome trouble slowly but surely creeps into her life. McAvoy is a callous brute who names his models after inanimate objects to depersonalize his relationship with them. Sean's insecurity and insanity also slowly begins to show: Sean slashes pictures of his last greatest fashion model and he becomes desperate to prove his manhood to Tracy. When Brian loses the election for Alderman back in Chicago, he tries to join Tracy in Rome and live her lifestyle without much success.
Of course, there is much more to the plot. Tracy (Mahogany) takes a big chance and wears her own fashion creation instead of the dress she was to wear at a major fashion show. What happens next provides some meat to the skimpy plot. The wealthy fashion--and women--loving Christian Rosetti (Jean-Pierre Aumont) enters Mahogany's life.
How will this change Sean's relationship with Tracy? Will Sean and Brian get along when Brian arrives in Rome to try to share life with Tracy on her terms? How far with Christian go to help Mahogany? What does Christian want from Mahogany? Why is he so interested in her? No spoilers here, folks--you'll have to watch the movie to find out the answers to these questions including the big question as to how the story finally ends.
The choreography works wonders for the fashion show scenes and the scenes in the department store early on in the film are thoughtfully presented. The excellent cinematography really shows in the car racing scene and the scenes in which Sean McAvoy takes seemingly endless photos of Mahogany.
Overall, this film is just about as pure 1970s "lite fare" love story as you're ever going to get. I agree with some reviewers who write that the film could have been shortened a few minutes here and there to make it tighter and better. I highly recommend this film for fans of Diana Ross; and people who like fairy tale type love stories in a modern day setting will enjoy this film, too. It may not be the best flick I've ever seen; but Mahogany pulls its weight without creaking--at least not too loudly.
One of My Favorites! I have always found the film, "Mahogany" very intriguing and interesting. Whenever it's on television, I can't help but sit down and watch it, even if I initially don't want to. For some reason this movie draws you into the life of Diana Ross' character as she moves from struggle to success in the fashion industy starting as a model and then a designer.
The love story between Ross and Billy Dee Williams did not seem very warm, but maybe that's how the characters were. I didn't really believe that the two of them were really in love. It just seemed like Williams yelled at Ross for her beliefs (mainly because he was a political figure in the film) and told her what to do all the time. Other than that aspect, I thought the movie was really good.
Anthony Perkins played the role of the famous photographer who turns Ross' character from a regular struggling young woman into "Mahogany" the fashion icon. His mental breakdown towards the end of the film, and his ultimate demise, is disturbing.
Overall, I would highly recommend this film!...more info
Good but not Great I thought that Diana's performance in this movie was good, it wasn't great. I would have love to seen the other characters in the movie reaction to her success. How did Diana's(Tracy's) character discover her love of fashion, why did the film not bring her success to America. None the less, the movie was good not great....more info
Miss Diana Ross People can say what they want about her,but what a good movie I always wanted this movie but could never find it. Thanks to the making of Dreamgirls I was able to enjoy one of my all time favorite movies.If you're out to look for something special either rent or make a purchase of this one....more info
The Best of the best! I had this movie on VHS and I watched it over and over until the tape started showing bad. I really believe this movie is overlooked as a great work. Diana is very, I mean very underrated as an actress. She seems to get no props for her acting ability. I saw this movie at the theaters with my parents when I was a kid. Billy Dee was and still is the smoothes brother in acting. I really reccommend this movie for anyones collection. I just can't help but hope this movie one day will make it to DVD! Oh, what a day that will be. Buy it now. You will thank me....more info
Classic! Diana Ross returns after her acclaimed film debut in 'Lady Sings The Blues. She plays the role of an ambitious struggling secretary who becomes a world famous designer-model (hmmm...). Diana Ross is a challenging & versatile performer and in this classic flick she showcases her impressive talents. Watch out for Anthony Perkins 'reprising' his Norman Bates persona. Over the top plot, cheesy dialogue, wonderful soundtrack, glamorous costumes... Diana Ross never looked more gorgeous!...more info
What are you trying to do...kill me? Why isn't this on DVD? Simply put, a camp classic - and a pitch-perfect time capsule of the 70s. I saw this in the theaters as a kid and watched it ever since on VHS, but WHY oh WHY isn't this on DVD yet when so many other "lesser" films are? From the clothes (particularly the brilliant rise-to-fame fashion montage and the over-the-top Kabuki finale!), the one-liners ("Success is NOTHING unless you have someone to share it with it!" "You're a LOSER, baby!" "What are you trying to do...KILL ME?" "I want to see DEATH!" and on), the full-throttle "acting," the well-intentioned "message," the Motown lite theme song, etc. Even though La Ross has shown she can be a great actress (check out the underrated TV movie OUT OF DARKNESS to watch her "do crazy"), in this '75 outing, she only had to be...MISS ROSS! Hoping the DVD will include the original trailer, behind-the-scenes featurette, commentaries, and more!...more info
Love Beats All I've always loved this movie, mostly for the fashion and photography. It's a good story line about striving to achieve your dreams despite the odds and others trying to talk you out of pursuing your dream. Tracy Chambers (played by Diana Ross) reached her dream but gave it up for the love of "Billy Dee Williams" without flipping a coin....more info
As Much Drama Behind The Scenes As In The Script After the fabulous Lady Sings the Blues, the next lead role for Diana Ross would prove to be quite difficult, if not impossible. And then add the drama surrounding Berry Gordy and the directing of Mahogany, it is ultimately the professionalism of the cast that kept the project from completely falling apart.
The movie was produced by Motown Records and released in 1975 by Paramount Pictures to mostly very critical reviews in the media. One joke back in the day was the highlight of the film was the song, Theme from Mahogany (Do You Know Where You're Going To), which actually claimed the number one slot on the Billboard Hot 100 in early 1976. The movie received one 1976 Academy Award nomination, for Best Music, Original Score.
Perhaps the person who was cast incorrectly for a role was Gordy as director, who replaced Tony Richardson, after reports of the timeless cinema tug-of-war, creative differences. Gordy also reportedly had spats with Ross, which may have been as much personal as professional. Ross ultimately left the production before filming was completed.
Through all the turmoil, Ross turns in an admirable performance as Tracy/Mahogany, who puts herself through fashion school with the goal of being one of the world's top designers. But Tracy's beauty and ambition carries its own series of heavy burdens. As the line on the original movie poster reads, "Mahogany: the woman every woman wants to be - and every man wants to have."
Ross proved to be a talent for design, as she created some of the costumes for the fashion show sequence. Billy Dee Williams (Brian) and Anthony Perkins (Sean McAvoy) are great in their roles.
But the film did not have the typical creative energy from the director to the cast. Gordy was cutting the check - and Motown Records had a lot riding on Ross as a recording/movie superstar - but his ego-infused meddling ultimately destroyed what could have been a classic film with a variation of the timeless theme concerning a person reaching for the stars and achieving success against incredible odds.
Mahogany My only dissapointment is that this and the other movies that I am interested in are not on DVD. As for the movie it is well worth 5 stars....more info
Love Beats All I've always loved this movie, mostly for the fashion and photography. It's a good story line about striving to achieve your dreams despite the odds and others trying to talk you out of pursuing your dream. Tracy Chambers (played by Diana Ross) reached her dream but gave it up for the love of "Billy Dee Williams" without flipping a coin....more info
Will finally be on DVD I love this classic movie. I am happy to hear that it will finally be released on DVD on Nov. 8th, 2005. I can hardly wait. ...more info
Diana is a Diva! This movie made a huge impression on me when I first saw it growing up. I had to own it and the soundtrack as well! Diana and Billy have sparks igniting between them, making the kisses breath-taking to witness. Costumes (Diana again!) are still fabulous today and the music box score is sure to make you smile. Anthony is a laugh to watch as he plays a fashion photographer closet queen obsessed with Diana! Lush locations and set designs delight the eyes. Considering that Diana walked out, it's a testament to brilliant editing as well! Re-capture your youth, enjoy a love story, familiarize yourself with 70's high fashion.... buy it today!...more info
The Truth About Mahogany Somewhere between the adulations of Ross fans, and the glum remarks of *Mahogany* detractors, lies the truth about *Mahogany*. It is indeed ALL the things it has been called -- from wretched to glorious. But, then again, don't ALL Kweenie Klassix have elements of trash and treasure?
"And now, Mahogany presents...the Kabuki Finale!" This is the movie that made me want to be a fashion designer *and* a drag queen. Who else would be able to sit through this tripe? But if you're a designer *or* a drag queen, or at least play one on TV, this is *delectable* tripe. Just like in *Mommie Dearest* when you *know* you're looking into the heart of Joan Crawford, *Mahogany* makes you feel as if you're looking into the heart of Diana Ross. A vanity production to beat *all* vanity productions, Mr. Gordy showcases his star (who was also his lover, *and*, we now know, mother of his child) in her first non-singing film -- her only other previous film being *Lady Sings The Blues*. In this self-serving tale of the perils of stardom, Diana, as Tracy Chambers, scales the heights of the glamour and glitter of international high fashion and plummets directly into Bad-Movie-Hall-Of-Fame. Tracy is in school to be a fashion designer, and we know this because we see her riding the bus around town sketching big drag queen-y outfits. But one humiliating interview follows another (Diana *excels* in demonstrating humiliation - lots of teeth-gnashing and tossing her head), and life looks grim. She becomes involved with the local neighborhood activist (this *is* the Seventies), played by the devastatingly handsome, but not deeply talented Billy Dee Williams. He wants to make the world a *better* place, and *she* just wants to make it a *prettier* place. She goes off on her own but life has its campy highs and lows for Diana/Tracy - along the way she loses Tracy and becomes Mahogany and reaches the pinnacle of the fashion world, but it's not without its trade-offs. I have a particularly favorite scene where Ross is in her element - as the prima donna couturierre, she parades through her workroom, issuing demands and dictums, and eventually becomes entirely unglued, shrieking and cursing at her workers, who, not speaking English, have no idea what she's carrying on about. This scene seems to sum up Ross herself, as so many in this movie do, and she is utterly delightful - but *not* in a pleasant way. Of course, it's inevitable that Mahogany will chuck her entire career in the trash and go home to Mr. Right, having learned her lesson about the ugly business of beautiful clothes, and the viewer sighs a sigh of palpable relief that this movie, this monument to egotism, has finally come to an end. Writing credits go to John Byrum and Bob Merrill. I don't imagine that they put this movie on their resumes....more info
Excellent I absolutely love this movie. It is definitely a keepsake. Oh and the price was just lovely. Amazon is the place to purchase DVDs....more info
Miss Ross Has Turned From A 1920's Poor Girl To A True Queen HA! HA! This movie was simply outstanding! First of all, I LOVE 70's movies. I just love that warmth of the loud bass and the fuzzy screen. When I first watched this movie I nearly cried. To see Diana on that old subway and the first bit of "Do You Know Where Your Going To" came on, It just brought back so many memories. I love the way Diana opened up and could be herself. I thought this movie was better than her 1972 movie "Lady Sings The Blues". "Mahogany" is a DEAD tie between her 1978 movie "The Wiz". They are both outstanding! Anyways "Mahogany" is one of my favorite movies of all time and I think most anyone would enjoy this truly emotional & STRONG story. I would STRONGLY advise you to buy it!...more info
Chinese Food That Kabuki Finale made me go to the fridge, grab the bottle of Soy Sauce and sprinkle the screen. Then I ordered Chinese Food and when the delivery guy came to the door with the wrong order I said 'NO!! NO!!! ( clap hands, snap fingers ) and don't give me any of that No CAPISH CRAP!!!!...more info
Just As I Remember It The DVD version of MAHOGANY was just as I remember when I first saw it back in 1976. It would have been nice if they had some outtakes or a documentary of how the movie was developed and made. It would also have been nice to see the sketches of the garments that Diana Ross designed for the movie. I am happy to say that this movie was the catalyst for my career as a Fashion Designer....more info
DIANA ROSS RADIATES SUPERSTAR GLAMOUR IN A FUN FILM!! This is a super camp movie because of the incredibly implausible script. However, it is also incredibly entertaining with a wonderful musical score. Diana Ross looks gorgeous in unbelievably glamorous costumes, jewels, make-up and furs. And, in spite of the movie's flaws, Diana's acting is really good while poor Anthony Perkins is atrocious. Beautiful scenes of Rome, Italy! This is a must for any Diana Ross fan! Unfortunately, some of the scenes, notably the "Kabuki Fashion Show" have been cut for the DVD while other unnecessary scenes have been left in. It is a tragedy she didn't make may more movies after this one.Mahogany...more info
A classic film by Ms. Ross!!! This film just happens to be one of my favorite films of all time. Diana Ross gives another stellar performance. I would have to say that this film should have done well at the box office. Thankfully, I own it on DVD. Billy Dee Williams is so damn sexy. Add this film to your list of favorites!!!!!!!...more info
Mahogany is not a musical, it's a drama... I generally read reviews for items I want, not items I own, but for some reason, I read some of the Mahogany reviews.
Someone referred to this movie as a musical, but it's not. It's an interesting drama. It is the "rags" to riches story. I put quotations around "rags" because, truly, Tracey Chambers was not in rags, she was just in the wrong line of work.
She did become a fashion model, but along the way, fell in love with a politician and the crux of the movie is the struggle for her to gain her own career and not become the silent supporter of her man's career.
In the end, she chose to come home and be with her man because she realized that "success means nothing if you have no one to share it with" which is what Brian, her man, says to her.
This is one of my favorite movies, but also a movie that pisses me off because Brian, the politician, spends a lot of time demeaning Tracey's choice of work and her career ambition, only to tell her that his job is more meaningful.
they love me!!!.....mahogany! As a child, i LOVED this movie..and watched it MANY MANY times even though my cousin made fun of me for doing so.
Now as an adult..well..a young one..i have re-discovered diana ross and her brilliance (girl needs a NEW album..her last one was FIERCE!)
While Lady sings the blues is divine! Mahogany is CLASSIC! it's one of the best movies EVER made! forget gone with the wind, cadablance..mahogany is ALL u need! a ghetto cinderella story!
BEST SCENES:
When tracy is being "stalked" by this scary looking man in the alley..so she turns around, offers him some "bootie" and "sucki sucki" and then asks him for some drugs.
When she meets Billie Dee Williams character in front of her apartment, and when questioned of her integrity. she calls him a "jacka$$" and goes all ghetto on him.
Seeing Bille Dee beating these guys up. Mahogany laughs as if she's watching a clown show.
Tracy telling Billie to "DROP IT IN THE MAILBOX!" as if it's important dialogue!
Mahogany being "discovered"..screaming "OKAY!" when the photographer is RIGHT there..and spinning around as if she's high
The beautiful montage of Tracy-to-Mahogany, including the make up and beautiful photography to the tune of the theme from mahogany (instrumental)
Perkins attempt to seduce Mahogany, then minutes later...clearly after they are..done...Ross tells him that "something" is NOT the most important thing in the world..and not to worry (what is she talking about???)
When Mahogany comes back from a fashion party (with candle wax ALL over her) and she exposes..for NO reason...her breast for a milisecond....then goes on to talk about how they "love me, they all love me.....Mahogany!" to billie dee williams
when perkins (the photographer) tries to kill mahogany by driving wrecklessly...the climax being when they are screaming as the car flies to the ground
the final scene, when tracy comes back and shouts to the running congressman that she wants help getting her "old man back" and that 6 kids got the flu!
also, the thing i love BEST about this movie is that it uses the SAME song (do you know where your going to) throughout the ENTIRE movie..whether discovering a drawing, or modeling..the same plays in the background! at least 30 times!!!!!! i love it! i wonder why it's called the THEME from mahogany!
all in all..this movie is a necessity...it HAS to be ILLEGAL for paramount to have NOT released this movie (as well as lady sings the blues) on dvd.
this movie looks older..not as clear and bright...it NEEDS remastering......NOW!!!!!!!!...more info
Wonderful Masterpiece by Berry Gordy Mahogany is a Wonderul black love story of a woman raised in Chicago's inner city ghetto (Diana Ross). She has dreams and aspirations of becoming a fashion designer and eventually achieves that goal. But when she leaves home to go to Rome to claim her fame as a model she learns that it's lonely at the top and she starts to miss home and her one true love (Billy Dee Williams) who she's forsaken. The movie has a great moral to the story simply put by Billy Dee Williams, "Sucess is nothing without someone to share it with". This was a great performance by both actors including Anthony Perkins....more info
