Cinema 100 - "Morocco" Starring: Gary Cooper / Marlene Dietrich

1930 Episode 5 - "Morocco" Directed By: Josef Von Sternberg. Release Date November 14th, 1930. Our last movie of the year 1930 is "Morocco.” A pre-Code romantic drama directed by Josef von Sternberg and starring Marlene Dietrich, Gary Cooper, and Adolphe Menjou. The film is set against the exotic backdrop of North Africa and tells the story of Amy Jolly, a disillusioned nightclub singer who arrives in Morocco seeking a fresh start. Her path crosses with that of Tom Brown (Cooper), a disillusioned soldier in the French Foreign Legion, and the two embark on a rather heated romance. The film is notable for its lush cinematography, evocative of Sternberg's signature style, and for Dietrich's captivating performance, which includes a groundbreaking scene where she performs in a tuxedo and kisses another woman. "Morocco" is also remembered for its exploration of themes such as love, desire, and the complexities of human relationships. The film's atmospheric visuals and haunting score complement the narrative, creating a poignant and enduring piece of cinema. "Morocco" earned several Academy Award nominations and solidified Marlene Dietrich's status as a major Hollywood star, marking the beginning of a long and successful collaboration between her and von Sternberg. Ladies and Gentlemen, this is Morocco!