1940’s Dance, Girl, Dance, directed by Dorothy Arzner, is a groundbreaking and feminist-tinged drama that explores the struggles of women in the entertainment industry.

The film follows Judy O’Brien (Maureen O’Hara), a classically trained ballet dancer with dreams of artistic success, who finds herself working alongside the bold and ambitious Bubbles (Lucille Ball), a brassy burlesque performer. As their careers take divergent paths — Judy yearning for legitimacy while Bubbles embraces the spotlight — the two women become rivals in both dance and love, particularly over the affections of a wealthy playboy (Louis Hayward).

Featuring a powerful climactic monologue in which Judy condemns the objectification of women, Dance, Girl, Dance stands out as a rare Hollywood film of its era that directly challenges gender norms, all while showcasing dynamic performances and spirited dance sequences.