This page presents an annotated, worldwide bibliography of reviews, articles and other published material related to the 1926 film A Social Celebrity (link to LBS filmography page). This American film includes Louise Brooks in the role Kitty Laverne, a social climber from a small town. Under its American title documented screenings of the film took place in Australia, British Malaysia (Singapore), Canada, China, England, Ireland, Isle of Man, Jamaica, Japan, New Zealand, Scotland, and South Africa. The film was also promoted under the title The Social Celebrity (China); and A Sociál Celebrity (Czechoslovakia). Elsewhere, this motion picture was known to have been shown under other-language titles including Figaro en sociedad (Argentina); Der Bubikopfkünstler (Austria); Au suivant de ces Messieurs (Belgium); Desfrutando a alta sociedade (Brazil); Figaro en sociedad (Chile); Sociální osobnost (Czechoslovakia); I laante fjer (Denmark); Storfyrstinden og hendes kammertjener (Denmark); Au suivant de ces messieurs (France); Die Strasse des Grauens (Germany); Un barbiere di qualità (Italy); 三日伯爵 (Japan); Der Liebling der Gesellschaft (Latvia); Der Schaum-Cavalier (Luxembourg); Figaro en sociedad (Mexico); De Dameskapper (Netherlands); Disfrutando a Alta Societade (Portugal); Figaro en sociedad (Spain); and En Sparv i tranedans (Sweden).
As research is ongoing, this page is a work in progress. It is understood that any given citation comes from an American source, unless otherwise noted. The intention of this bibliography is to be both comprehensive and useful. Most citations represent a substantial review or article. Capsule reviews, or significant shorter pieces — usually a paragraph or two in length — are so noted. Entries are arranged chronologically. Critical commentary regarding Brooks, or the film as a whole (excerpted from the material cited) is given as annotations. Some citations link to the material noted: some of these links reside on the Louise Brooks Society, while others reside elsewhere on the web.
Much can be gleamed from a bibliography such as this. Besides what critics thought of the film, one can follow the path of the film’s distribution — where it showed and when; sometimes, for example, the exhibition record might reveal if the film was shown before its official release date. As well, this bibliography shows which critics at which newspapers and magazines reviewed films. History, here, is in the details.
An * indicates that a copy of this citation is held in the archives of the LBS. This annotated bibliography has been compiled by Thomas Gladysz, and was last updated in October 2015. [Help wanted: If you know of additional citations, can provide further information on entries noted on this page, or can provide copies of citations not marked with an * but which are known to exist, please contact the LBS. The LBS would like to acquire material on the screening of this film in Alaska (if it was), as well as in Latin America, eastern Europe, the Soviet Union, and Asia.]
A SOCIAL CELEBRITY
released March 29, 1926
S., H. C. “Talk of the Day About Footlight and Film.” Newark Star-Eagle, September 11, 1925. *
— partial column devoted to the film in Newark, New Jersey newspaper
anonymous. “A Social Celebrity.” Exhibitor’s Herald, January 16, 1926. *
— pre-release write-up
anonymous. “A Social Celebrity.” National Board of Review Magazine, March – April, 1926. *
— capsule review
anonymous. “Olympic Theatre.” Jewish Criterion, March 26, 1926. *
— Louise Brooks is referenced in article in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania publication
anonymous. “Adolphe Menjou Social Celebrity.” Hartford Times, March 27, 1926. *
— article in Hartford, Connecticut newspaper
anonymous. “Menjou As Social Celebrity Will Be Offering At Strand.” Birmingham Age-Herald, March 28, 1926. *
— article in Birmingham, Alabama newspaper
anonymous. “Stage and Screen.” Hartford Courant, March 29, 1926. *
— review in Hartford, Connecticut newspaper
anonymous. “Capitol.” Hartford Times, March 29, 1926. *
— review in Hartford, Connecticut newspaper
Marzoni, Pettersen. “Picture Reviews.” Birmingham Age, March 29, 1926. *
— “A newcomer also provides color to A Social Celebrity. She is Louise Brooks, who flashed a moment of inspiration in The American Venus.” – brief review in Birmingham, Alabama newspaper (the film is also deemed acceptable by the Better Films Committee of Birmingham in an adjunct column)
anonymous. “Programs at Photoplay Theaters.” Pittsburgh Chronicle Telegraph, March 30, 1926. *
— two articles (regarding Olympic and Regent theater screenings) in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania newspaper
anonymous. “In the Pitt Theaters.” Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, March 30, 1926. *
— review in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania newspaper
anonymous. “At the Theatres.” Pittsburgh Press, March 30, 1926. *
— brief review in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania newspaper
anonymous. “Menjou Has Liberty Laugh Role.” San Jose Evening News, March 31, 1926. *
— article in San Jose, California newspaper
Tinee, Mae. “Adolphe Menjou Proves He’s No One Role Actor.” Chicago Tribune, March 31, 1926. *
— “Louise Brooks, who plays the small town sweetheart who want to make a peacock out of her razorbill, is a delightful young person with a lovely, direct gaze, an engaging seriousness, and a sudden, flashing smile that is disarming and winsome. A slim and lissome child, with personality and talent.” – Chicago, Illinois newspaper
anonymous. “Menjou Comedy Is Offering at Liberty.” San Jose Evening News, April 2, 1926. *
— article in San Jose, California newspaper
Hughston, Josephine. “Adolphe Menjou At Liberty in A Social Celebrity.” San Jose Mercury Herald, April 2, 1926. *
— “Louise Brooks is Kitty, the girl who sets the pace in leaving the small town to dance in a New York night club.” – review in San Jose, California newspaper
anonymous. “Adolphe Menjou At the Strand in Social Celebrity.” Canton Repository, April 4, 1926. *
— article in Canton, Ohio newspaper
anonymous. “Adolphe Menjou Stars in Picture at State.” Dayton Journal, April 5, 1926. *
— review in Dayton, Ohio newspaper
Patton, Peggy. “Bespectacled Harold Is Back Again.” Wisconsin News, April 10, 1926. *
— brief article in Milwaukee, Wisconsin newspaper
Service, T. O. “Service Talks.” Exhibitor’s Herald, April 10, 1926. *
— article
anonymous. “Lyceum.” Duluth Herald, April 12, 1926. *
— review in Duluth, Minnesota newspaper
anonymous. “Theaters.” Duluth News Tribune, April 12, 1926. *
— “Miss Brooks, with her mannish bob, is a treat for the eyes.” – review in Duluth, Minnesota newspaper
C., J. P. “James.” Ohio State Journal, April 12, 1926. *
— capsule review in Columbus, Ohio newspaper
S., De L. “Vaudeville and Burlesque.” Columbus Dispatch, April 12, 1926. *
— capsule review in Columbus, Ohio newspaper
S., H. W. “James.” Columbus Citizen, April 12, 1926. *
— review in Columbus, Ohio newspaper
Parsons, Polly. “Realm of Silent Drama.” Milwaukee Sentinel, April 13, 1926. *
— “Mejou is excellent in his role with Louise Brooks, a Broadway dancing star, appearing as Kitty, and Elsie Lawson, another Manhattan dancer, as April.” – review in Milwaukee, Wisconsin newspaper
anonymous. “Max Fisher And His Orchestra and A Social Celebrity At The Capitol.” The Standard, April 17, 1926. (Canada) *
— article in Montreal, Canada newspaper
anonymous. “Howard Photoplay Is A Social Celebrity.” Atlanta Constitution, April 18, 1926. *
— “In the supporting cast are Louise Brooks and Chester Conklin, both of whom are featured.” – Atlanta, Georgia newspaper
anonymous. “Theater, Musik & Kunst.” New Yorker Volkszeitung, April 18, 1926. *
— Brooks is noted in brief write-up in German-language, New York City newspaper
anonymous. “Adolph Menjou Stars in Cinema at the Paramount.” Salt Lake Telegram, April 18, 1926. *
— article in Salt Lake City, Utah newspaper
anonymous. “Paramount Offers Social Celebrity.” Salt Lake Tribune, April 18, 1926. *
— article in Salt Lake City, Utah newspaper
anonymous. “Menjou Takes Barber’s Role In New Movie.” Akron Beacon Journal, April 19, 1926. *
— review in Akron, Ohio newspaper
anonymous. “The Theaters.” Capital Times, April 19, 1926. *
— brief review in Madison, Wisconsin newspaper
anonymous. “Au Capitol, l’orchestre de Max Fisher, et Adolphe Menjou avec Chester Conklin.” La Patrie, April 19, 1926. (Canada) *
— review in French-language Montreal, Canada newspaper
anonymous. “At The Capitol.” Montreal Gazette, April 19, 1926. (Canada) *
— “Kitty is most attractively played by a new-comer to the screen, Louise Brooks who possesses piquant charm and ability as an actress.” – review in Montreal, Canada newspaper
anonymous. “A Social Celebrity.” Morning Telegraph, April 19, 1926. *
— “Besides Menjou’s capital performance, various rosettes and medals should go to Josephine Drake, Louise Brooks, Chester Conklin and Elsie Lawson. . . . Louise Brooks, provocative, alluring, would have been enhanced by better lighting or darker make-up, but that will doubtless come in another picture. She is, Heaven knows, potent enough as it is.” – review was repeated in April 25th edition; New York City newspaper
anonymous. “Adolphe Menjou in A Social Celebrity at the Rivoli.” New York Post, April 19, 1926. *
— “There is, further, an attractive young lady named Louise Brooks, late of the Follies, dark, cute and accomplished at the Charleston.” – New York City newspaper
author unknown. New York Graphic, April 19?, 1926.
— article in New York City newspaper
Hall, Mordaunt. “The Handsome Barber.” New York Times, April 19, 1926. *
— “Incidentally, Miss Brooks, who impersonates the heroine, sometimes reminds one a little of Beatrice Lillie.” – review in New York City newspaper
Martin, Quinn. “The New Films.” The World, April 19, 1926. *
— “It is no doubt the least exciting and the least imaginative of any of the recent Menjou plays, and even so it does sparkle. This is so because of St. Clair, Menjou, Miss Brooks and that heavy footed, sad-eyed daddy of a great many horrible comedies, Chester Conklin.” – review in New York City newspaper
Moviegoer, The. “Picture Plays and Players.” New York Sun, April 19, 1926. *
— ” . . . the beauteous Louise Brooks poses exquisitely and acts atrociously.” – New York City newspaper
O., J. C. “The New Films.” Brooklyn Daily Times, April 19, 1926. *
— review in New York City newspaper
Underhill, Harriette. “On the Screen.” New York Herald Tribune, April 19, 1926. *
— “We like Louise Brooks, but not as a heroine. She should be always a lady who lures.” – review in New York City newspaper
W., M. “Mr. Menjou in Another Cinema Joy on Valentine Silver Sheet.” Toledo Times, April 19, 1926. *
— “Louise Brooks, who left Mr. Ziegfield’s ‘Follies’ for a career on the shadow stage, has her first important role opposite him and does admirably. She is a captivating little brunette with the figure of a Venus.” – review in Toledo, Ohio newspaper
Zimmerman, Katherine. “Unreeling the Films.” New York Telegram, April 19, 1926. *
— “Louise Brooks, an attractive young woman who made her screen debut in The American Venus some months ago, puts in some good work as the Charleston stepper.” – New York City newspaper
anonymous. “At the Madison.” Capital Times, April 20, 1926. *
— brief review in Madison, Wisconsin newspaper
H., H. P. “Menjou Has New Type of Role In Feature At Capitol.” Montreal Herald, April 20, 1926. (Canada) *
— review in Montreal, Canada newspaper
anonymous. “Madison.” Wisconsin State Journal, April 20, 1926. *
— article in Madison, Wisconsin newspaper
Creelman, Eileen. “Social Celebrity Opens at Rivoli.” New York American, April 20, 1926. *
— ” . . . the saucy Louise Brooks.” – review in New York City newspaper
H., D. “A Social Celebrity.” Daily Mirror, April 20, 1926. *
— “Miss Brooks is a vivid young miss, more at home in a jazzy role than a sweetly innocent one.” – review in New York City newspaper
Dickstein, Martin B. “The Cinema Circuit.” Brooklyn Daily Eagle, April 20, 1926. *
— review in Brooklyn, New York newspaper
McGowen, Rose. “Social Celebrity Shaved Off Nobility by Chance Remark.” Daily News, April 20, 1926. (United States)
— “Louise Brooks would have been ample excuse for making any picture. Here is a young actress who has fresh young beauty reinforced by one of the most expressive faces I have ever seen on the screen.” – review in New York City newspaper
Morgan-Powell, S. “Adolphe Menjou and A Famous Orchestra Are a Great Great Success.” Montreal Daily Star, April 20, 1926. (Canada) *
— review in Montreal, Canada newspaper
Pelswick, Rose. “New Pictures on Broadway.” New York Evening Journal, April 20, 1926. *
— “It is about 85 per cent top grade entertainment and consequently much better than the average. . . . Louise Brooks is an unusually attractive girl who stirs the hero to ambition by leaving the same small town to do the inevitable Charleston in a Broadway night club.” – review in New York City newspaper
Fred. “A Social Celebrity.” Variety, April 21, 1926. *
— “And in Louise Brooks it looks as though Famous has a find that might rank in the Colleen Moore class providing they handle her right.” – review in trade journal
anonymous. “Menjou Plays at Garden in Great Success.” Davenport Democrat And Leader, April 22, 1926. *
— review in Davenport, Iowa newspaper
anonymous. “Pictures Playing Atlanta This Week.” Weekly Film Review, April 24, 1926. *
— review; “The cast is uniformly excellent, but the players certain to leave an imprint are winsome Louise Brooks, who wears her clothes with a flaunt that no feminine member of the audience is apt to forget.” – review in Atlanta, Georgia trade journal
Harrison, P. S. “A Social Celebrity – with Adolphe Menjou.” Harrison’s Reports, April 24, 1926. *
— capsule review in trade publication; “Not much to it! There is a little comedy here and there, but not enough to make one sit up and take notice.” – review in trade journal
S., T. “The Current Cinema.” New Yorker, April 24, 1926. *
— brief mention in film column; “Miss Louise Brooks is a pretty newcomer but not an acting newcomer.”
anonymous. “Adolph Menjou Tries Luck in Barber Shop.” Boston Post, April 25, 1926. *
— short article in Boston, Massachusetts newspaper
anonymous. “Adolphe Menjou in A Social Celebrity.” Film Daily, April 25, 1926. *
— capsule review; “Louise Brooks a cutey and with a quantity of good looks. She isn’t exactly the heroine type though. She would make a far better baby vamp.”
anonymous. “For Film .” Philadelphia Inquirer, April 25, 1926. *
— “Louise Brooks, a little dancer of Ziegfeld fame, is seen as the manicurist loved by the barber.” – article in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania newspaper
Hall, Mordaunt. “Cyrano’s Dulcet Tones Are Missed in Picture.” New York Times, April 25, 1926. *
— review in New York City newspaper
Hillman, Gordon. “Show Off Is Sparkling Film of Real Life.” Boston Daily Advertiser, April 25, 1926. *
— “Miss Louise Brooks, a new leading lady, also does excellently.” – review in Boston, Massachusetts newspaper
Adams, Carl B. “Photoplay Reviews.” Cincinnati Enquirer, April 26, 1926. *
— review in Cincinnati, Ohio newspaper
anonymous. “Granada Screen Shows Menjou in Clever Role.” San Francisco Chronicle, April 26, 1926. *
— “Louise Brooks, a newcomer – she played a rather outstanding bit in An American Venus – does nicely as Max’s real sweetheart.” – San Francisco, California newspaper
B., E. D. “Menjou Again in Role of Flunky.” San Francisco Call and Post, April 26, 1926. *
— article in San Francisco, California newspaper
Gillaspey, A. F. “Barber Makes Excellent Count.” San Francisco Bulletin, April 26, 1926. *
— ” . . . a typical Menjou vehicle.” – review in San Francisco, California newspaper
Jones, Idwal. “Granada Comedy Provokes Laughs.” San Francisco Examiner, April 26, 1926. *
— ” . . . played by the appetizing and bob-haired Louise Brooks.” – review in San Francisco, California newspaper
Montfort, Lawrence M. “Menjou Funny in Granada’s Screen Farce.” Illustrated Daily News, April 26, 1926. *
— “Louise Brooks, who plays the small town girl who coaxes Menjou to emulate her example and try luck in New York is a comer and awfully good to look upon. Her straight-cut bob, black eyes and not too sweetly pretty face are different, and she displays some acting ability.” – review in San Francisco, California newspaper
Segal, Eugene. “Barber is Glorified by Adolphe Menjou.” Cincinnati Post, April 26, 1926. *
— review in Cincinnati, Ohio newspaper
Swint, Curran D. “Adolphe Menjou Granada Star.” San Francisco News, April 26, 1926. *
— “A very excellent supporting cast includes, besides Chester Conklin, Louise Brooks and Elisie Lawson in important roles.” – review in San Francisco, California newspaper
anonymous. “Adolph Menjou Metrpolitan Star.” Boston Globe, April 27, 1926. *
— review in Boston, Massachusetts newspaper
anonymous. “Social Celebrity at Metropolitan.” Boston Herald, April 27, 1926. *
— “Louise Brooks as the girl in the case is very attractive and dances the Charlestown almost as well as Bessie Love, although more vigorously, yet she does little acting.” – review in Boston, Massachusetts newspaper
anonymous. “A Social Celebrity Is Stanley Picture.” Philadelphia Inquirer, April 27, 1926. *
— “Louise Brooks gives a thoughtful interpretation to her part of the capricious Kitty.” – review in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania newspaper
anonymous. “New Films Being Shown on Local Screens This Week.” Philadelphia Public Ledger, April 27, 1926. *
— “Opposite Menjou, Louise Brooks, a recent addtion to the screen from the chorus, possesses a vivacious personality and gives a fresh and promising portrayal.” – review in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania newspaper
anonymous. “Adolphe Menjou on Stanley Screen.” Philadelphia Record, April 27, 1926. *
— review in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania newspaper
anonymous. “Tivoli at Its Best.” Toronto Globe & Mail, April 27, 1926. (Canada) *
— review in Toronto, Ontario newspaper
B., D. W. “Films of the Week.” Boston Evening Transcript, April 28, 1926. *
— “In this instance the manicure is no less provocative a morsel than Miss Miss Louise Brooks, remembered for her bit in that specious puff-pastry, The American Venus. Miss Brooks has anything but a rewarding task in A Social Celebrity. Yet it would be ungracious not to comment on the fetching qualities of her screen presence. She affects a straight-line bang across the forhead with distressingly piquant cow-licks over either ear. Her eyes are quick, dark, lustrous. Her nose and mouth share a suspicion of gaminerie. Her gestures are deft and alert – perhaps still a shade self-conscious. In body she is more supple than facial play and her genuflectory exertions in the Charleston might well repay the careful study of amateurs in that delicate exercise.” – review in Boston, Massachusetts newspaper
anonymous. “Musical Comedy, Drama and Motion Pictures.” Musical Courier, April 29, 1926. *
— brief review of New York City screening and accompanying stage attraction
anonymous. “Adolphe Menjou Now Featured at Regent Theatre.” San Mateo Times, April 29, 1926. *
— “Louise Brooks, a little girl who suddenly sprang into fame through her dancing in the stage production of Louie the 14th and who was awarded a role in The American Venus, has the second featured role. Miss Brooks is the little manicurist with whom Menjou is in love, but who later becomes a musical comedy star.” – article in San Mateo, California newspaper
anonymous. “The Low Down on the Picture.” Motion Pictures Today, May 1, 1926.
— “Louise Brooks, who achieved something of a reputation in The American Venus . . . ” – review in trade journal
Chartier, Roy. “Film: A Social Celebrity.” Billboard, May 1, 1926. *
— “Probably the most pathetic thing about A Social Celebrity is the casting opposite Menjou of Louise Brooks, a recent ‘find’. She is absolutely negative so far as acting goes, lacks artistry and ingratiation, and so far as expression is concerned is a positive blank.”
Sargent, Epes W. “A Social Celebrity – Paramount.” Moving Picture World, May 1, 1926. *
— “Louise Brooks, who is coming along fast, does fine work as the manicure girl. A little too harsh in the more tender moments, she is very good in the more dashing episodes, and goes well beyond her previous accomplishments.”
anonymous. “Amusements.” Bridgeport Telegram, May 3, 1926. *
— brief review in Bridgeport, Connecticut newspaper
anonymous. “New Films.” St. Louis Post-Dispatch, May 3, 1926. *
— brief review in St. Louis, Missouri newspaper
anonymous. “New Pictures.” Time, May 3, 1926. *
— capsule review; “He has to help him in this venture an exceedingly personable and promising newcomer called Louise Brooks.”
Feldkamp, Frances V. “Movie Reviews.” St. Louis Globe-Democrat, May 3, 1926. *
— “Louise Brooks, who caused such a ripple of interest in her small role in The American Venus, is a flop as Kitty. One reason is that her makeup gives her a hard look that is neither becoming nor liked.” – review in St. Louis, Missouri newspaper
Noble, Lee. “College Film Leads Week’s Movie Bills.” St. Louis Times, May 3, 1926. *
— brief review in St. Louis, Missouri newspaper
M., B. “Snappy Bill at Capitol Theatre.” Calgary Daily Herald, May 4, 1926. (Canada) *
— review in Calgary, Alberta newspaper
anonymous. “Stage – Music – Photoplay.” Detroit Saturday Night, May 8, 1926. *
— short write-up in weekly Detroit, Michigan entertainment newspaper
anonymous. “Pre-release Reviews of Features.” Motion Picture News, May 8, 1926. *
— “A comedy with a bit of suggested pathos leavening the laughs, plot of extremely light texture and not startling original.” – review, with five scene stills, in trade journal
anonymous. “Quick Stuff on Pictures for Busy Showman.” Motion Pictures Today, May 8, 1926. *
— capsule review in trade journal
anonymous. “Menjou Has Barber Role at American.” Oakland Post-Enquirer, May 8, 1926. *
— short article in Oakland, California newspaper
anonymous. “At the Theaters.” Providence Evening Bulletin, May 10, 1926. *
— article in Providence, Rhode Island newspaper
Craig, Betty. “Comedies and Mystery Greet Denver Film House Patrons.” Denver Post, May 10, 1926. *
— “The supporting cast includes Louise Brooks and Chester Conklin in roles almost as fascinating as the role played by the dapper star.” – review in Denver, Colorado newspaper
Soanes, Wood. “American Presents Menjou as ‘Celebrity’.” Oakland Tribune, May 10, 1926. *
— “Handsome is as handsome does! The aphorism finds new verity at the American this week in the story of A Social Celebrity.” – review in Oakland, California newspaper
W., L. M. “Stage and Screen.” Ann Arbor Times News, May 10, 1926. *
— “Louise Brooks, who plays opposite Adolphe Menjou, gives her role vigor and strength of character." – brief review in Ann Arbor, Michigan newspaper
anonymous. “Celebrity Film Is Brimful of Amusement.” Oregon State Journal, May 11, 1926. *
— review in Portland, Oregon newspaper
anonymous. “Menjou, Heart Breaker, Tries Hand at Barbering.” Portland Oregonian, May 11, 1926. *
— “It introduces to the movie public a new heroine in the person of the sleek and boyish Louise Brooks. A little young, perhaps, but bouyant and of most engaging smile. There is no opportunity to learn whether or not she can act, but in her role of chorus girl she reveals the most beautiful pair of legs in the movies – which is a rather broad statement and a comment which would have been in very poor taste in crinoline days.” – Portland, Oregon newspaper
Heffernan, Harold. “The New Movies in Review.” Detroit News, May 11, 1926. *
— “Louise Brooks, possessing one of the most striking and expressive faces ever to come to the screen, plays the heroine in a saucily successful manner.” – review in Detroit, Michigan newspaper
McCormick, Ella H. “Reel Players.” Detroit Free Press, May 11, 1926. *
— “Louise Brooks is the nifty stepper who forsook the orangewood stick and the bowl of soapy water and then made up her mind that life with the village barber meant more to her than luxurious clothes and the applause of hip flaskers in the big city.” – review in Detroit, Michigan newspaper
Richardson, Charles J. “Adolphe Menjou Appears as Barber in Latest Comedy Vehicle.” Detroit Times, May 11, 1926. *
— “The same for Louise Brooks. You find it hard to imagine this lovely bit of decoration as a domestic creature willing to retire from night life and a patron for the comforts of a four corner community.” – review in Detroit, Michigan newspaper
Sherwood, Robert E. “The Silent Drama.” Life, May 13, 1926. *
— “Adolphe Menjou is, of course, excellent, and his leading lady, Louise Brooks, indulges in some eye-and eyebrow-play which is not at all difficult to watch. Miss Brooks looks to me like a safe bet.”
anonymous. “Social Celebrity Subtle Picture.” Los Angeles Evening Herald, May 15, 1926. *
— “The girl in the story is played by Louise Brooks, the lovely miss that made quite a name for herself in The American Venus.” – Los Angeles, California newspaper
anonymous. “Adolphe Menjou Sunday Feature.” Salinas Daily Index, May 15, 1926. *
— short article in Salinas, California newspaper
anonymous. “Wichita Girl in A Social Celebrity.” Topeka Daily State Journal, May 15, 1926. *
— captioned scene still in Topeka, Kansas newspaper
anonymous. “New Faces Bow With Menjou Film.” Washington Times, May 15, 1926. *
— “Louise Brooks, also endowed with a prominent part in the Menjou picture, was a featured dancer in Ziegfeld’s production of Louie, the 14th, and she joined the picture game to play the part of ‘Miss Bayport’ in Paramount’s production of The American Venus” – article in Washington D.C. newspaper
Moulton, Herbert. “Local Boy Doesn’t Make Good.” Los Angeles Times, May 15, 1926. *
— “Louise Brooks proves a capable leading woman, considerably removed from the conventional type. She makes the character definite and gives it a quality of hardness that fits in nicely with her treatment of Menjou. She moves a bit too slowly, sometimes giving the effect of a carefully studied portrayal. This is particularly noticeable in several close-ups with Menjou, when she invariably turns her face toward the camera with great deliberation before speaking the subtitle.” – review in Los Angeles, California newspaper
anonymous. “Life’s a Wow to St. Clair.” Los Angeles Examiner, May 16, 1926. *
— article in Los Angeles, California newspaper
anonymous. “Masculine fashion plate of films wins girl and fortune – in screen play.” Louisville Courier-Journal, May 16, 1926. *
— brief article in Louisville, Kentucky newspaper
anonymous. “Adolphe Menjou in A Social Celebrity with Wichita’s Own Louise Brooks.” Wichita Beacon, May 16, 1926. *
— full page illustrated article – Brooks also appears on the cover of the newspaper’s Town Crier magazine; Wichita, Kansas newspaper
anonymous. “At the Strand.” Des Moines Register, May 17, 1926. *
— review in Des Moines, Iowa newspaper
anonymous. “Adolphe Menjou in A Social Celebrity, current feature at the Kinema Theater.” Fresno Bee, May 17, 1926. *
— “Louise Brooks, practically a newcomer to the screen, and Chester Conklin, play the leading roles in support of Menjou.” – brief review in Fresno, California newspaper
anonymous. “As the Reviewer Sees Them.” Indianapolis News, May 17, 1926. *
— review in Indianapolis, Indiana newspaper
anonymous. “New Theater Attractions.” Syracuse Post-Standard, May 17, 1926. *
— review in Syracuse, New York newspaper
anonymous. “Offerings at Local Theaters.” Washington Post, May 17, 1926. *
— “In the cast with Menjou are Louise brooks, Elsie Lawson, Chester Conklin and others. Their work, without exception, is good and gives excellent support to the splendid acting by the star.” – Washington D.C. newspaper
anonymous. “Columbia – A Social Celebrity.” Washington Star, May 17, 1926. *
— review in Washington D.C. newspaper
Hickman, Walter D. “New Menjou Film Booked at Ohio.” Indianapolis Times, May 17, 1926. *
— review in Indianapolis, Indiana newspaper
K., M. “A Jowl-Scraping Baron, That’s Menjou.” Washington Times, May 17, 1926. *
— “. . . Kitty Laverne, expertly played by Louise Brooks” – review in Washington D.C. newspaper
S., I. “Adolphe Menjou’s Latest One Clicks.” Washington Herald, May 17, 1926. *
— “Louise Brooks, of the Ziegfeld’s Follies and Louie the Fourteenth, has the role opposite Menjou. She is credited with having made a leap from the chorus to stardom in this one picture. She is one of the ‘finds’ of the season.” – review in Washington D.C. newspaper
P., E. “A Social Celebrity at Mosque.” Newark Star-Eagle, May 17, 1926. *
— review in Newark, New Jersey newspaper
T., R. G. “The New Pictures.” Indianapolis Star, May 17, 1926. *
— “Louise Brooks, who quits her position in the shop, dashing off to broader fields of endeavor in New York, where she becomes a cabaret dancer, has the feminine lead, contributing liberally to the value of the picture in spite of the meager possibilities of the role.” – review in Indianapolis, Indiana newspaper
anonymous. “Menjou Sets New Hair-Bob Styles In Met Picture.” Los Angeles Daily Illustrated News, May 18, 1926. *
— article in Los Angeles, California newspaper
anonymous. “Amusements.” New Orleans States, May 18, 1926. *
— short review in New Orleans, Louisiana newspaper
anonymous. “Attractions at Theaters Tersely Told.” Santa Barbara Daily News, May 18, 1926. *
— review in Santa Barbara, California newspaper
anonymous. “Menjou Film Pleases Crowd.” Santa Rosa Press Democrat, May 18, 1926. *
— article in Santa Rosa, California newspaper
K., K. T. “Asbestos.” New Orleans Times-Picayune, May 18, 1926. *
— “Louise Brooks is rather cute as the girl.” – review in New Orleans, Louisiana newspaper
M., H. W. “Films.” Santa Barbara Morning Press, May 18, 1926. *
— brief review in Santa Barbara, California newspaper
anonymous. “Menjou’s Latest Said To Be Finest.” Los Angeles Record, May 18, 1926. *
— brief article in Los Angeles, California newspaper
anonymous. “Actor Gets Lessons in Barbering.” Los Angeles Times, May 19, 1926. *
— article in Los Angeles, California newspaper
anonymous. “Adolphe Menjou Leads In A Social Celebrity Attraction at Strand.” Commercial Appeal , May 23, 1926. *
— brief article in Memphis, Tennessee newspaper
Smith, Palmer. “Cinematics.” Duluth News Tribune, May 23, 1926. *
— write-up in column in Duluth, Minnesota newspaper
G., G. “Capitol Starts Summer Season With Racy Film.” Daily Oklahoman, May 24, 1926. *
— brief review in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma newspaper
anonymous. “U.C. Theater to Show Menjou in Comedy Scream.” Berkeley Daily Gazzette, May 25, 1926. *
— short article – “Chester Conklin and Louise Brooks appear in the featured roles.” – Berkeley, California newspaper
anonymous. “A Social Celebrity Even If He is a Barber.” Venice Evening Vanguard, May 28, 1926. *
— review in Venice, California newspaper
anonymous. “Menjou Shines in Latest Film.” Glendale Daily Press, May 29, 1926. *
— article in Glendale, California newspaper
anonymous. “Adolphe Menjou As Barber At Strand.” Pasadena Star-News, May 29, 1926. *
— review in Pasadena, California newspaper
Beaton, Welford. “As Viewed Through the Spectator’s Specs.” Film Spectator, May 29, 1926. *
— review in trade journal
anonymous. “Famous Avenue Is Setting for Film.” Battle Creek Enquirer and Evening News, May 30, 1926. *
— article in Battle Creek, Michigan newspaper
R., M. E. “Amusing Comedy Opens Keith’s Summer Policy.” Grand Rapids Press, May 30, 1926. *
— “A familiar story, true, but Menjou’s capable acting and that of Louise Brooks as Kitty make it pleasantly new.” – review in Grand Rapids, Michigan newspaper
anonymous. “Menjou Seen as Dapper Barber.” Minneapolis Journal, May 30, 1926. *
— article in Minneapolis, Minnesota newspaper
anonymous. “The Majestic.” Tulsa Daily World, May 30, 1926. *
— short article in Tulsa, Oklahoma newspaper
anonymous. “Movies.” Minneapolis Tribune, May 31, 1926. *
— capsule review in Minneapolis, Minnesota newspaper
Star-News Critic. “Adolphe Menjou Is Very Entertaining.” Pasadena Star-News, May 31, 1926. *
— review in Pasadena, California newspaper
Taaffe, Agnes. “Movies.” Minneapolis Daily Star, May 31, 1926. *
— “Louise Brooks, a recent screen find and one who bids fair to rise rapidly in the ranks of popular stars, plays opposite Mr. Menjou and handles the role of the small town sweetheart who becomes a chorus girl with more than the usual ability shown by the beginner.” – review in Minneapolis, Minnesota newspaper
Hanley, Thomas F. “Adolphe Menjou Pleases Crowds in Fine Comedy of Social Life.” Bakersfield Californian, June 3, 1926. *
— review in Bakersfield, California newspaper
Mewhinney, Hubert B. “TONIGHT — At Austin Theaters.” Austin Statesman, June 5, 1926. *
— “The girl is played by Louise Brooks, whom we remember as looking more attractive than either Esther Ralston or Fay Lanphier in The American Venus.” – short review in Austin, Texas newspaper
Taylor, Alva. “Love in Russia and Africa and New York.” Liberty, June 5, 1926. *
— one of three films reviewed; “Kitty (Louise Brooks) was the manicurist . . . .”
anonymous. “Social Celebrity Film Feature at Regent Theater.” Riverside Daily Press, June 7, 1926. *
— article in Riverside, California newspaper
anonymous. “Menjou at Princess.” Honolulu Star-Bulletin, June 9, 1926. *
— article in Honolulu, Territory of Hawaii newspaper
anonymous. “Adolphe Menjou to be Seen As A Social Celebrity.” Venice Evening Vanguard, June 12, 1926. *
— article on second run screening in Venice, California newspaper
anonymous. “Menjou In Garden Photoplay Today.” Flint Journal, June 13, 1926. *
— article in Flint, Michigan newspaper
anonymous. “Menjou’s Vehicle Still at Criterion.” Santa Monica Evening Outlook, June 14, 1926. *
— article in Santa Monica, California newspaper
anonymous. “Menjou Charms Strand Patrons.” Binghamton Press, June 15, 1926. *
— review in Binghamton, New York newspaper
anonymous. “At the Movies.” Bismarck Tribune, June 18, 1926. *
— brief review in Bismarck, North Dakota newspaper
anonymous. “Photoplay Reviews.” Democrat & Chronicle, June 21, 1926. *
— review in Rochester, New York newspaper
anonymous. “Manjou Plays Barber Role in Eastman Film.” Rochester Evening Journal & Post Express, June 21, 1926. *
— review in Rochester, New York newspaper
anonymous. “New Theater Attractions.” Syracuse Post-Standard, June 21, 1926. *
— review (for second run screening) in Syracuse, New York newspaper
Croughton, Amy H. “Screen News.” Rochester Times-Union, June 21, 1926. *
— review in Rochester, New York newspaper
anonymous. “Menjou and Conklin Score, And Grass Strand Hit.” Albany Evening News, June 22, 1926. *
— review in Albany, New York newspaper
anonymous. “Poor But Proud; He’s a Social Celebrity.” Chicago Heights Star, June 22, 1926. *
— review in Chicago, Illinois newspaper
anonymous. “Adolph Menjou Comedy Tonight.” Daily News Tribune, June 29, 1926. *
— article in Fullerton, California newspaper
anonymous. “A Social Celebrity, with Adolphe Menjou, at Capitol.” Sacramento Bee, June 30, 1926. *
— “Louise Brooks, the girl who created favorable comment as the Miss Bayport in The American Venus, has the role of the leading woman.” review in Sacramento, California newspaper
anonymous. “A Social Celebrity.” Photoplay, July, 1926. *
— capsule review with picture; “Miss Brooks looks more than ever like stellar material.”
anonymous. “A Social Celebrity.” Screenland, July, 1926. *
— short review with picture
G., E. “A Social Celebrity.” Pictures, July, 1926. *
— capsule review
Reid, Laurence. “A Social Celebrity – Romantic Comedy.” Motion Picture, July, 1926. *
— capsule review; “The provocative Louise Brooks enters into the scheme of things too. She has screen personality. Her expressions have an impish playfullness. She has a manner of teasing you to join her, while at the same time she warns you to keep your distance.”
anonymous. “Menjou Star of Capitol Screen.” Sacramento Union, July 1, 1926. *
— short review in Sacramento, California newspaper
anonymous. “Menjou Uses Facile Razor in Photoplay.” Lansing Capital News, July 5, 1926. *
— brief review in Lansing, Michigan newspaper
anonymous. “A Fine Paramount Comedy at Strand.” Lansing State Journal, July 5, 1926. *
— review in Lansing, Michigan newspaper
anonymous. “Brief Reviews of Films.” Baltimore News, July 19, 1926. *
— capsule review in Baltimore, Maryland newspaper
anonymous. “The Screen in Review: A Barber-shop Chord.” Picture-Play, August, 1926. *
— capsule review; “Louise Brooks is the young lady with the black hair who saved The American Venus from a fate worse than death. This young lady, very recently from Kansas, is the newest of all those new faces that have been cropping up lately. And the prettiest, too.”
anonymous. “A Cut-Up With The Blond and Brunettes.” Chico Daily Enterprise, August 9, 1926. *
— article in Chico, California newspaper
anonymous. “A Social Celebrity at Palace, Last Times Today.” Hamilton Daily News, August 11, 1926. *
— article in Hamilton, Ohio newspaper
anonymous. “Reviews of the Week.” Kinematograph Weekly, August 19, 1926. (England) *
— brief review; “Louise Brooks more than justifies her promotion, her appeal of face and form being allied to real personality which promises to develop.”
anonymous. “Charles Chaplin Rinde Tributo al Trabajo de Adolphe Menjou en Figaro en Sociedad.” Excelsior, August 27, 1926. (Mexico) *
— short article in Mexico City newspaper
anonymous. “Singer, Film at Stacy.” Trenton Times, August 27, 1926. *
— brief review in Trenton, New Jersey newspaper
anonymous. “Paramount Week at Lincoln Way.” Gettysburg Times, September 6, 1926. *
— short article in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania newspaper
anonymous. “Contest Winner in Menjou Film.” The Bee, October 11, 1926. *
— article in Danville, Virginia newspaper
anonymous. “Hipp Vaudeville.” Youngstown Telegram, November 1, 1926. *
— review in Youngstown, Ohio newspaper
anonymous. “Menjou at Hippodrome.” Youngstown Vindicator, November 2, 1926. *
— review in Youngstown, Ohio newspaper
anonymous. “Moving Pictures.” Daily Gleaner, November 3, 1926. (Jamaica) *
— brief article Kingston, Jamaica newspaper
anonymous. “A Social Celebrity.” Movie Times, December 1, 1926. (Japan) *
— short article in Japanese film magazine
anonymous. “Holland Welcomed Back to Evansville At New Grand.” Evansville Daily Courier, December 6, 1926. *
— article in Evansville, Indiana newspaper
anonymous. “Adolphe Menjou in A Social Celebrity.” Movie Times, December 11, 1926. (Japan) *
— one page of text and images in Japanese film magazine
anonymous. “Ecos y noticias ” La Vanguardia, December 11, 1926. (Spain) *
— article in Barcelona newspaper
anonymous. “Proyecciones.” Popular Film, December 30, 1926. (Spain) *
— brief write up in Spanish film magazine
La Prensa, February 6, 1927. (Argentina) *
— “Adolphe Menjou, protagonista de Figaro en sociedad.” – captioned photo in Buenos Aires newspaper
anonymous. “Actualités.” Cinémagazine, March 4, 1927. (France) *
— contains a still from the film
S., W. “Picture-Theatres.” Manchester Guardian, March 8, 1927. (England) *
— review in Manchester newspaper
anonymous. “Au Suivant de ces Messieurs.” Cinémagazine, May 6, 1927. (France) *
— review; “Louise Brooks est tout à fait charmante.”
anonymous. “At the Movies.” Stevens Point Daily Journal , May 21, 1927. *
— brief article in Stevens Point, Wisconsin newspaper
Florey, Robert and Tinchant, Andre. Adolphe Menjou. Paris: Publications Jean Pascal, 1927. *
— reference to the film as well as a few film stills including the earliest known image featuring Louise Brooks in a book
anonymous. “Figaro en sociedad.” Popular Film, July 7, 1927. (Spain) *
— three page, illustrated fictionalization in Spanish film magazine
anonymous. “Les Films de la Semaine.” Cinémagazine, September 2, 1927. (France) *
— review; ” . . . c’est un des premiers films de Louise Brooks et la nouvelle star de la Paramount est une bien jolie fille.”
author unknown. Picturegoer, December, 1927. (England)
— article
anonymous. “A Social Celebrity at the Grand.” Cape Times, December 12, 1927. (Union of South Africa) *
— “Louise Brooks, the second featured player, appears as his first love.” – brief article in Cape Town newspaper
anonymous. “New Shows at the Bio’s.” Cape Times, July 2, 1928. (Union of South Africa) *
— capsule review in Cape Town newspaper
anonymous. “The Passing Shows.” North-China Daily News, September 20, 1928. (China) *
— article in Shanghai, English-language newspaper
anonymous. “The Isis Theatre.” North China Daily News, June 20, 1929. (China) *
— article in Shanghai, English-language newspaper
Brennan, Sandra. “A Social Celebrity.” All Movie Guide, circa 2000. (United States) *
— capsule review on film website