R.I.P. GINA LOLLOBRIGIDA

The stunning Italian beauty, Gina Lollobrigida passed away on January 16 at the age of 96. We monster fans remember her as the seductive gypsy Esmeralda in the 1957 version of THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME starring alongside Anthony Quinn in the title role. But she was more than that, having a second successful career as a photojournalist. She also was active in the Italian American community and supported their causes as a member of the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF). Rest in peace, Gina.

THE HUNCH-FACTS OF 1956

When I was but a young Monster Kid, I watched this version of THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE- DAME on TV. I'm guessing it was my first exposure to Quasimodo, and of course I would have the Aurora model kit with James Bama's Anthony Quinn Quasi on the box art (and the model looking nothing like any of the versions!).

Now, I have to tell you, I haven't watched it in years, but I remember it being a pretty fair film. Quinn did a decent job as Notre Dame's bell-ringer. Then there was Gina Lollobrigida as Esmeralda. What can I say? Latin women are among the most beautiful in the world, especially those from Italy, IMHO. Of course, I'm biased -- I married one!

This version of THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE-DAME was a French/Italian production, funded by Paris Film Productions and Panitialia. Directed by Jean Dellanoy, it was shot in French and released in Europe on 19 December 1956 as NOTRE-DAME DE PARIS. It wouldn't be until nearly a year later, 3 November 1957, when a dubbed version was released in the US. Budgeted at about $1 million, the film grossed almost $5 million.

Here are a few "Hunch-facts" about the film (from IMDB):

• It was shot partly at the original Cathédrale Notre Dame de Paris.

• Director Jean Dellanoy wanted Jose Ferrer in the role of Quasimodo.

• Gina Lollobrigida made several French films, but this was the first one where she spoke her own lines.

• Esmeralda's goat that played in the film was insured for $2 million!

THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE-DAME GALLERY

Look for the comic book adaptation of THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE-DAME later today!