The Guardian (from the U.K.) took a look at "reel history" and how unreal it actually was. Their example: King Vidor's 1959 extravaganza, featuring Gina Lollobrigida and Yul Brynner as Solomon and Sheba. Their perception is summed up by this photo caption: "Gina Lollobrigida's portrayal of the Queen of Sheba involves more scarlet lipgloss than can possibly be practical in a desert."

(Gosh! Could Vidor's film have inspired the latest movie version of Sex and the City, which took a leap into desert sand and soaring temperatures, while the characters remained perfectly coiffed and fashion forward?!? )

Beyond that, I won't try to sway your perceptions. I'll simply let the attached screenshot speak for itself. Then, you can weigh in on whether you see a Bettie overlay in Gina's get-up.

Point of reference: By 1959, Bettie left the modeling world behind. Following her second failed marriage, Bettie began her spiritual journey as a born again Christian. According to several recent interviews, Bettie trashed her modeling attire -- partly her own designs, partly from Frederik's of Hollywood.

Despite this break from the modeling world, there were fans who didn't know Bettie moved on. Publishers continued to repackage and reprint her photos as if she was still posing. So, could it be that Gina really was decked out to emulate Bettie?... Or is that a contemporary version of wishful seeing by The Guardian due to Bettie's unpredicted/unprecedented rise as a cult figure?



To read the entire article, go here:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/film/2010/jul/14/solomon-and-sheba-reel-history

Series: Reel history

Solomon and Sheba: Take Bible, add ninjas

The 50s sword-and-sandals epic features acrobats, fire eaters and a funky chicken - but not a single grain of historical accuracy

* Alex von Tunzelmann

guardian.co.uk, Thursday 15 July 2010 09.06 BST