About The Last of the Blonde Bombshells

Released in 2000, 'The Last of the Blonde Bombshells' is a British-American television film directed by Gillies MacKinnon. The plot revolves around a woman named Elizabeth (played by Judi Dench) who was once a member of a World War II swing band called 'The Blonde Bombshells'. The movie takes viewers through a journey of Elizabeth's reflection of the past and her efforts to reunite her old band mates more than fifty years later, offering a nostalgic trip back to the era of swing music.

Making / Production

The film was produced by BBC and HBO. The unique storyline of nostalgia, reunions and music was conceptualised by writers Alan Plater and Mark Herman, creating an enticing mix of comedy, drama, and music that was appreciated by audiences worldwide.

Actors

• Judi Dench as Elizabeth: Dench`s portrayal of Elizabeth added an emotional depth to the story. She perfectly captured the nostalgia and urgency of Elizabeth's desire to reunite her old band.
• Ian Holm as Patrick: Holm played Patrick, a mysterious man who helps Elizabeth in her quest. His performance was praised for its charm and subtlety.
• June Whitfield as June: Whitfield played June, one of Elizabeth's band mates, with an essence of humor and poignancy.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Director Gillies MacKinnon previously worked with Judi Dench in the film 'Turtle Diary' in 1985.
• The idea of a wartime all-female band was based partly on real-life bands such as The Blue Belles and The Melodears.

Awards

This film received several nominations and won two awards including Judi Dench winning the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Mini-Series or Motion Picture Made for Television.

Quotes

• "It's not easy being a coward. It takes planning, it takes discipline."
• "I'm not running away, I'm moving at high speed."

• The movie's soundtrack pays homage to the big band era, featuring hits such as "In The Mood" and "Sing, Sing, Sing".
• Throughout the film, the band is seen performing these songs, adding to the movie's nostalgic feeling.