Summary: Movie: The film "Zouzou" (1934) was conceived as a vehicle for Josephine Baker, then among Europe's most popular entertainers. This was her debut talking film and a huge success in France upon its original release. It is definitely Baker's show, despite the presence of Jean Gabin, who was himself on the brink of international stardom. The film places Baker in several lavish production numbers in which she is sumptuously dressed and supported by a large chorus. But it is the poignant rendition of "Haiti" that remains indelible. Seated on a swing in an oversize birdcage, scantily clad in feathers like some exotic bird of paradise, she sings nostalgically for her Caribbean home and leaves a permanent record on film of her unique style and powerful charisma.
