I wish people stopped comparing Henie with today's skaters about who is the "best". She was best, or one of the best, of her time. She changed the sport. She skated on crappy ice in crappy shoes, in era where doing single jumps was pushing it (i mean, at the beginning of the century, it was not considered "ladylike" to do jumps cause your legs weren't crossed and until Henie they skated in heavy long skirts). At the same time... skating didnt stop with Henie. There were others, who came later and took the sport further. And yes, technically they are better, because they have the conditions to be better. That does not take away nothing from Henie and her achievements.
Hi Sonique Cat, Just wanted to thank you for these great comments! I'm the poster, and you've put in writing the best explanation I've seen regarding the negative comments about Sonja. Not that it matters, but given Sonja's petite stature and incredible gifts, I think she could have mastered all the great moves done today.....if they existed at the time! Also, love your explanation about the long skirts! In earlier photos of the Olympics Sonja can be seen in those same skirts! Not sure but think she was in her 30s in this clip. So glad to hear from you and here are 2 more from the same film: ruclips.net/video/dO31Da4es_I/видео.html ruclips.net/video/fVXwWpTcg9E/видео.html Best to you, varadero
Wow! Before I read your comment I was thinking along the lines of the same things! But not nearly as eloquent and as knowledgeable as you are about it. I imagined a lot of people probably compared her to today’s ice skaters.
Well put. I feel a little connected to Sonja. I loved watching her movies when I was growing up, especially when they'd have a whole week of them on the late, late show. My first skating coach competed against Sonja in the 1935 World Championships. Sonja won, and my coach was eighth...in a field of eight. But she was thrilled to compete against Sonja. I read a bio about Sonja that was very revealing of everything that was so extraordinary about her and her life, including some things that weren't flattering. It was fascinating though. What a life! She looked sweet and innocent on the outside but she was steel on the inside, especially when getting something she wanted, whether it was a huge movie contract or a man. About 15 years ago, I met an 80 year old woman named El on the ice, whose father was a Stanford professor, and she studied ballet, took up skating, and skated in an adagio pair with Sonja's show when she was young, and Sonja was older, by then, of course. She showed me all her albums, show programs and memorabilia from her days skating with Sonja. Sonja gave her a pair of her used blades as a memento, parts of costumes, and a couple of expensive gowns she no longer wore. She was very kind to the skaters in her show. At the age of 80, El could still do a full Charlotte position (leg pointed almost straight in the air), and in fact, her position at the age of 80 was about like Belinda's (a fabulous British pro skater who made movies) in her prime, and much better than Sonja's. I told El that if they had an Olympics for 80+ she would have won gold. I have a photo of El doing the move at age 80. I've got to look at all these old Sonja show clips to see if maybe El is in one of them.
My mother saw Miss Henie perform live back when she did ice shows. The applause was so thunderous Mom thought the ceiling would collapse. The crowd absolutely adored her. Figure skating is what it is today because of what a teenage Sonja Henie brought to the ice rink.
There’s something so charming about watching this kind of ice-skating without worrying about double and triple jumps. It really takes the stress out of watching this competition. Bravo to Sonja Henie!
Thanks so much Lynn Peppa! I agree with you, and find it oddly soothing. At this point Sonja had already won numerous Gold medals at The Olympics. I think any moves today's skaters may be capable of, Sonja could have mastered with ease. Also, she was 33 years old here! Best regards, Varadero
Wow, it is like watching a cupcake princess on ice. I kind of expecting the skating to be lame compared to today’s standard, but I was completely transfixed the entire time. It looks cute. Almost like a tongue in cheek cartoon with the way the film is & her skating style. This is such a cool clip! Thanks for sharing. Bookmarked!
Thank you for posting this! My mother was Sonja's stand-in for her ice show (yes, sometimes she just didn't want to skate, so my mother skated in her place. They looked almost identical & my mother was trained to copy her flawlessly.) Somewhere I have a photo of my mother in this same costume, actually! Having been a skater, myself, I can say that skating wouldn't be the same without Sonja! She shortened skirt, lowered the boots, and put artistry into the sport.
I can't understand how she manages to do around 12 revolutions and then carries of skating, with no 'ill-effects' and then around 30 seconds later does spins again, amazing!
on vintage skates....watched men hockey players try old skates....couldn't even manage with 1950s skates. The balance. Human's become better because shoes, equipment, science and of course competition.
It is silly for people to compare her with today, she was just wonderful, and gave so much pleasure in films and everything she did, l was trained by Beryl Bailey she was also a champion and l skated in shows, and also did a Hand balancing act and trained as a ballet dancer.....it is very hard work and she was wonderful for the years she skated, no one can compare her with anyone....
A real personality, on ice. She reminds me of the ice fairies in Fantasia -- they were probably modeled after her! The little touches in her choreography and her big smile make it a total performance for me, rather than jumps-prep-jumps-prep to music. Thanks for posting!
Just watching her for 30 seconds and I could tell why Henie here is still remembered after all these years and why she was a pioneer. She had a quality missing from a lot of skaters today. She had a level of grace and elegance that today’s skaters cannot match. She is to skating like Nadia is to gymnastics and Torvill & Dean for pairs skates.
Great footage. In the context of the times, this really shows what a star she was...real star quality. Speed, footwork, fast spins, dance moves,costume, smiles, really entertaining.
Guess by now you suspect I'm a Sonja fan! Aside from all the obvious that you'd mentioned, I'd like to ask your opinion of her speed! Given that she was around 30 when this was filmed, I have to ask you this! Was she moving like a jet plane, or is it just me? I love Sonja a lot, and am so grateful for your comment! Thanks!
@@varadero1839 skaters in general were much faster back then than they are today. it's amazing really what they were able to accomplish with such poor skate technology
Unbelievable spins! I agree with Sonique you cannot compare her to today's skating. The equipment and conditions were nothing like today. I have never seen anyone else run such long distances on toe picks! Yes she does not have the straight back of the skater"s of today, but that was not the style then. She was amazing in her day and also went on to have a movie career showcasing her skating. I love today's skaters, but sometimes I wish there was less jumping more just graceful skating. Just my humble opinion.
Amazing speed in her spot on, dead "centered" spins. Crazy quick. Cute choreography and a lovely costume. Thank you for posting this. SIDE NOTE: I love how the left the hockey net on the ice pushed up to the boards 😅
Еще в детстве мама специально повела меня на фильм "Серенада Солнечной долины", чтобы я увидела эту фигуристку. В то время только там можно было узнать что такое фигурное катание. И я была очарована.
Three times Olympic figure-skating champion, with a career that spanned 30 years. And no matter how technical they've become, no other skater has come close to Sonja's success.
She innovated in areas such as costume design, lighting a show, film skating, merchandising & marketing the woman was a force off the ice. Give respect where its due & do some research before barking. In her time her skating was also cutting edge. She indisputably the greatest in terms of achievements in the sport & beyond it promoting it & building it. There's more to having a great skating legacy beyond jumps & tricks.
For all those criticizing, do you remember what Hockey was like 50-60 years ago lol? Times were different, expectations were different. In her say, she was brilliant.
Thank you so much for posting this clip! Sonja Henie was ,is ,and forever will remain the greatest talent in figure skating.It is just absurd to compare her to the modern skaters.Her spins are fantastic and her artistry is charming.Thanks again!
Another great clip of the wonderful Sonja at her best....I have always loved her....watching her skate was always a special treat for me during my childhood....she was the inspiration for many future skaters....Bravo Sonja!!!
OMG!!! Thank you!! Sonja was a hero when I was a kid, but as I only knew about her from magazines, ( we never saw a skating rink in those days) this is the first time I've seen her in action, and she sure was worthy of her fame!
Robin Kristiansen She was amazing! I'm so glad that you've seen something of her that helped you to see "the hype!" Her performances were mesmerizing, especially for this time, 1945! I posted this, and I'm forever grateful for your generous comment!Best wishes, varadero
varadero1839 Too bad she also is remembered for her not so friendly too competitive personality and for being a nazisympatiser. The beauty and the beast.
Perhaps no sport shows evolution based on modern athleticism and training more than free skating. This looks so simple compared to what is achievable today-but no question Sonia had something in personality only a few still show us...
🥲 I’ve seen ice skating today. I’ve seen ice skating then. And I think it’s maintained it’s beauty and difficulty. I think the people then were talented and I think the people now are talented. However, if not for these legends where would we be now? Gotta appreciate those who pushed boundaries then for those who push boundaries now in figure/ice skating.
The Flat Foot Spin.No one can do that to this day.Very hard to do,alot harder than on your toe,which is what all the other skaters do-before her and after her.She surpasses all of them.
You must be so proud! The idea that anyone could emulate her skating, while looking like a duplicate is fascinating to me! I think I'm not alone in wondering if you have any footage of your mother skating to anything! If so, please consider uploading it to YT! Thanks so much for your gracious remarks! I'm thinking it would be an enormous hit!
Lovely to watch. Thank you for posting. I find it irritating when people do comparisons with modern skaters as it is logical that there would be improvements in styles and techniques over a period of 69 years.
1BeeJenks Hi 1BeeJenks, I posted this and agree with you, wholeheartedly. In this age of instant gratification, I think it even leeches into our artistic community. Younger afficionados of this art form and sport, and even some competitive skaters assume that all of the unique moves of today were always around. Though Sonja was older here, given what we see, there's no reason to believe that she couldn't have executed all of what's being done these days! Thanks so much for writing! varadero
I would like to see modern skaters try to skate in her 1940s skates too. They were heavier and not in any way detailed out to make her glide easily as the modern Olympic class of skates are. Sadly, people prefer to criticize than to simply enjoy watching and seeing the original greats in action.
Hi Kim, Hope this reaches you with many kind thanks for your observance and honesty! I just came to the conclusion that even the "nay-sayers" who regard Sonja's performance of little worth only add to her caché and elegance! She was physically a tiny lady, but anyone who had even the rudimentary knowledge of this art would say: She could've done it all! Thanks kind Kim! varadero
Honored to hear from you Kim! Scary to say that this clip and I were born in the same year! I'm delighted and proud to know that I was on this earth when this sensational performer was at the zenith of her career! Thanks so much for having written back to me! Best wishes always, and I hope you'll have time to look for some other bits I've posted! Thanks again! varadero
Along with spinning that fast, her spins are extremely centered! It takes a lot of control to do that-- especially with that kind of speed. Even the top skaters today struggle with centering their spins. I agree, Sonja definately paved the way for us modern skaters!
Thank you for this video, I have found out her name from my grandma who said that Sonja was why she had wished to be an ice skater as a little girl. She never did but it was nice to find out something new from her past
What a fascinating job he held! If this is an indication of his abilities, he must have been at the top of his business, and the head of the lighting department! It can't have been easy keeping up with Sonja; she was so fast! Thanks so much for writing! I'm really grateful!
Grateful to hear from you, and guess you already know I agree with you about Sonja's incredible talent! Thanks so much for your comment; it means a lot!
Удивительно! Как приятно смотреть , такая лёгкая, ! И в Москве , нп чистых прудах, люди просто так катались, легко,, и у Толстого , герои на каток отдыхать ходили! Какая была физическая культура! Сейчас это всё так напряжно..... Всем всего доброго!
Wonderful sparkly performance. I remember Sonja Henie was an admired ice dancer, mentioned in the 50's when I was in the first 10 years of my life. In my own way I danced on ice too, on roller skates at the bus-station, showing off and truly feeling my stardom. Passengers, waiting in the buses around my circular "ice-floor" must've smiled often, watching my antics. I used to go very fast too, through the streets, on iron wheels. Fly... fly...wonderful! To me, the outfit, music and body posture are a charming mix of jukebox style figurines, Disney cartoon girly girly vibes and the village beauty smelling of daisies. In short... the American Dream Innocence that penetrated in many expressions of life in the 40's. The start of modern life with technological comforts allowing women to enjoy leisure time and stepping out of the box of house-wifery. If that's the right word as opposite to husbandry, which I take as a husband doing the domestic work. But that last role came much later ;)
So glad to hear from you, and I'm delighted that Sonja made the list. There are so many ill-informed folks out there that tend to belittle Ms. Henie her amazing accomplishments. It's been 66 years since this was recorded! Again, I'm delighted to know not only that this list exists, but your agreement with such. Thanks so much.
I'm so grateful to hear from someone who is not putting her down for not having performed all of the "unique" moves of skaters from today! At this point I think she was around 34 years old, a triple Olympic Medal winner, and a huge Hollywood favorite! My best wishes accompany this message! varadero
@originalperloocko I'm always amazed at how quickly she could end those long spins; stop on a dime, and then go into the next part of her routine. Thanks so much for writing! She's wonderful!
She was indeed fantastic, she really changed the sport. But it bothers me when people say she is still the best, she is no longer the best. She was the best of her generation but you can’t compare what they do now to what they did in her time.
All success is relative its about sacrifice & dedication. So what if today's skaters have better training methods & skills? Do they stay around to win consecutive Olympic gold medals & world championships? Do they work hard as pros to create sell out shows that tour the globe? Do they successfully maintain their careers well into their 50's? Do they become Hollywood stars once their competition days end? These things can be quantified. Success isn't just about executing complex skills. Drive, quality, imagination customer service, being a great entertainer delivering a good experience all count for a lot along with, having a great work ethic. Come off the gibberish. Henie's career success is still the gold standard. Frank Sinatra, Michael Jackson & Elvis Presley didn't have rap skills but they sold out more auditoriums than rappers. If you don't have the receipts you can't say you're better. Overall career success as an entertainer has nothing to do with how many complex jumps a skater can perform. If nobody gives a rip what then? What if nobody cares about seeing you jump like a trained seal? Then your show will flop and you won't attract sponsors because you're boring nobody cares about how much you can jump. Are you relevant and do you make skating relevant? Do you offer people something special & memorable? This is the real meat of the matter.
Thanks so much! I'm the 1st to admit my knowledge of the skating world, especially of today is really limited. I can only comment, as I've already done on what she accomplished so many years ago. Thanks to much for your having noticed. You're very kind.
The quality of her spins & speed is first rate & unmatched even today. How can anyone not get dizzy after spinning that fast? That stadium was packed. Henie brought the whole package to an ice show down to costumes, music, back up skaters & male partners. Guess she liked skating pairs. She started the big ice show.
@XxMelinaxMallisaxX Thanks so much for your comment! Many young people STILL don't get the concept that this clip is from 65 years ago! Great to hear a from an observant, intelligent and positive person!
Please see below: It's actually 3 songs, then a repeat of the 1st. First is "Nobody's Sweetheart," then "The Sweetheart of Sigma Chi," "I'll Get By,'' and then back to "Nobody's Sweetheart." So glad you enjoyed it! Best regards.
@firmingitup AMEN! Wonderful to hear from you - once more the "voice of reason" in the wilderness! I'm beginning to state the obvious. For her time, she was beyond anything that's been done today! That's a given. This clip is 66 years old! Feel I'm in your debt, and grateful for your message. Intellect like yours, will always compliment another talented artist, unconditionally! Once more, kindly disregard those lamentable individuals residing beyond the curtain! They're either jealous or 16!
Truly one of the best spinners that I have ever seen👍👍👍 And her interpretation is so good!! Also, she's a Pioneer, her environment, technology are wah different. Be wise. Technically, this is already so damn good. Just enjoy the process, the standard that so we called will also changed in the future.
Good to hear from you and your wise observation! I posted this and love Sonja. Given what she accomplished here, I can only imagine how she'd have fared, very well I imagine, among the skaters of today. For 1945, this was absolutely amazing! Thanks so much for your message.
Before Sonja women wore black skates which she disliked and wore beige ones instead. When her competitors copied her, she switched to white skates and it has stuck ever since! She really has changed the sport, between the skirt lengths, the jumps, and skates! Not to mention the fame she brought to it.
I searched Her- Sonja Brown after watching Oona and Gage Brown's ice dance. Woaah.. I felt dizzy watching her spins and revolutions. Indeed she was the finest. 😍
To think that Ms.Henie did this when she was already 33, an age when she was already way past her prime. If only we could have seen her skating in her prime, in her late teens and early twenties, that would've been unimaginable!
@KEBokeh Thanks friend! She was pretty much "out of this world!" So glad to hear from you, and your "holy shit!" What a tribute! Grateful to hear from you!
Thanks for uploading such a marvel. It brings to mind what modern figure skating is mostly lacking - musicality. Denise Bielmann was also great regarding musicality.
Grateful to hear from you! I agree with your musical assesment. I've got to research Denise Bielmann; I'm not familiar with her! Thanks for writing! varadero
The time goes forward! This is only rare clip. Another is forever & never will be overcome - The Music Superstars - the actors& actresses- dances! Sport is going forward!
Thanks so much for your comment. Both skating and I have changed a lot since 1945, the year of my birth! Didn't get to actually see this movie until around 9 years later, but I'm still impressed. Once more, grateful to hear from you.
More thanks! This one is delightful since she literally skates to 3 different melodies, then returns to the 1st! Something else about her skating, considering her size, she was incredibly fast on the ice! I always forget titles; sorry! This is From It's a Pleasure, 1945!
Thank you for uploading this gem. I guess it's a film done by Hollywood like guys. We don'y have similar quality films even for later times. It's amazing that we have a glimpse in those times. Women have evolved a lot, but men also. There is the same problem with gymnastics. we should not compare skaters, gymnasts. They were all great.
Lustig anzuschauen :-) Und wie sie sich dreht und dann weiter läuft! Respekt! Ich müsste mich sowas von übergeben wenn ich nur halb so schnell drehen müsste ;-))
I wish people stopped comparing Henie with today's skaters about who is the "best". She was best, or one of the best, of her time. She changed the sport. She skated on crappy ice in crappy shoes, in era where doing single jumps was pushing it (i mean, at the beginning of the century, it was not considered "ladylike" to do jumps cause your legs weren't crossed and until Henie they skated in heavy long skirts).
At the same time... skating didnt stop with Henie. There were others, who came later and took the sport further. And yes, technically they are better, because they have the conditions to be better. That does not take away nothing from Henie and her achievements.
Hi Sonique Cat,
Just wanted to thank you for these great comments! I'm the poster, and you've put in writing the best explanation I've seen regarding the negative comments about Sonja. Not that it matters, but given Sonja's petite stature and incredible gifts, I think she could have mastered all the great moves done today.....if they existed at the time! Also, love your explanation about the long skirts! In earlier photos of the Olympics Sonja can be seen in those same skirts! Not sure but think she was in her 30s in this clip. So glad to hear from you and here are 2 more from the same film:
ruclips.net/video/dO31Da4es_I/видео.html
ruclips.net/video/fVXwWpTcg9E/видео.html
Best to you,
varadero
Remember too, she was a three-time Olympic Champion in Ladies' Singles, a ten-time World Champion and a six-time European Champion.
Wow! Before I read your comment I was thinking along the lines of the same things! But not nearly as eloquent and as knowledgeable as you are about it. I imagined a lot of people probably compared her to today’s ice skaters.
Well put.
I feel a little connected to Sonja. I loved watching her movies when I was growing up, especially when they'd have a whole week of them on the late, late show.
My first skating coach competed against Sonja in the 1935 World Championships. Sonja won, and my coach was eighth...in a field of eight. But she was thrilled to compete against Sonja.
I read a bio about Sonja that was very revealing of everything that was so extraordinary about her and her life, including some things that weren't flattering. It was fascinating though. What a life! She looked sweet and innocent on the outside but she was steel on the inside, especially when getting something she wanted, whether it was a huge movie contract or a man.
About 15 years ago, I met an 80 year old woman named El on the ice, whose father was a Stanford professor, and she studied ballet, took up skating, and skated in an adagio pair with Sonja's show when she was young, and Sonja was older, by then, of course. She showed me all her albums, show programs and memorabilia from her days skating with Sonja. Sonja gave her a pair of her used blades as a memento, parts of costumes, and a couple of expensive gowns she no longer wore. She was very kind to the skaters in her show.
At the age of 80, El could still do a full Charlotte position (leg pointed almost straight in the air), and in fact, her position at the age of 80 was about like Belinda's (a fabulous British pro skater who made movies) in her prime, and much better than Sonja's. I told El that if they had an Olympics for 80+ she would have won gold. I have a photo of El doing the move at age 80.
I've got to look at all these old Sonja show clips to see if maybe El is in one of them.
@rudy kipling how crass,
My mother saw Miss Henie perform live back when she did ice shows. The applause was so thunderous Mom thought the ceiling would collapse. The crowd absolutely adored her. Figure skating is what it is today because of what a teenage Sonja Henie brought to the ice rink.
enterprisebaby
enterprisebaby : She absolutely powders that ice.
There’s something so charming about watching this kind of ice-skating without worrying about double and triple jumps. It really takes the stress out of watching this competition. Bravo to Sonja Henie!
Thanks so much Lynn Peppa! I agree with you, and find it oddly soothing. At this point Sonja had already won numerous Gold medals at The Olympics. I think any moves today's skaters may be capable of, Sonja could have mastered with ease. Also, she was 33 years old here! Best regards,
Varadero
Wow, it is like watching a cupcake princess on ice. I kind of expecting the skating to be lame compared to today’s standard, but I was completely transfixed the entire time. It looks cute. Almost like a tongue in cheek cartoon with the way the film is & her skating style. This is such a cool clip! Thanks for sharing. Bookmarked!
Thank you for posting this! My mother was Sonja's stand-in for her ice show (yes, sometimes she just didn't want to skate, so my mother skated in her place. They looked almost identical & my mother was trained to copy her flawlessly.) Somewhere I have a photo of my mother in this same costume, actually! Having been a skater, myself, I can say that skating wouldn't be the same without Sonja! She shortened skirt, lowered the boots, and put artistry into the sport.
Sure Jan.
@@pedropelaez why would someone lie about that.
@@alysskennedy8661 that’s so cute that you don’t think someone on RUclips would lie. ❤️❤️❤️
@@alysskennedy8661 hahahaha
I’m a long retired skater. My coach skated in her Ice Revue.
I can't understand how she manages to do around 12 revolutions and then carries of skating, with no 'ill-effects' and then around 30 seconds later does spins again, amazing!
She was spinning so fast--it was like a blur!
on vintage skates....watched men hockey players try old skates....couldn't even manage with 1950s skates. The balance. Human's become better because shoes, equipment, science and of course competition.
I heard her dad hire the best coaches
You should watch Peggy Fleming 1968 Olympics
You get dizzy a bit, but then it goes away almost right away.
It is silly for people to compare her with today, she was just wonderful, and gave so much pleasure in films and everything she did, l was trained by Beryl Bailey she was also a champion and l skated in shows, and also did a Hand balancing act and trained as a ballet dancer.....it is very hard work and she was wonderful for the years she skated, no one can compare her with anyone....
A real personality, on ice. She reminds me of the ice fairies in Fantasia -- they were probably modeled after her! The little touches in her choreography and her big smile make it a total performance for me, rather than jumps-prep-jumps-prep to music. Thanks for posting!
Just watching her for 30 seconds and I could tell why Henie here is still remembered after all these years and why she was a pioneer. She had a quality missing from a lot of skaters today. She had a level of grace and elegance that today’s skaters cannot match. She is to skating like Nadia is to gymnastics and Torvill & Dean for pairs skates.
So crazy how now they’re doing quad jumps.
A very talented skater! I love the music she skated to. She was also a beautiful woman!
Great footage. In the context of the times, this really shows what a star she was...real star quality. Speed, footwork, fast spins, dance moves,costume, smiles, really entertaining.
Guess by now you suspect I'm a Sonja fan! Aside from all the obvious that you'd mentioned, I'd like to ask your opinion of her speed! Given that she was around 30 when this was filmed, I have to ask you this! Was she moving like a jet plane, or is it just me? I love Sonja a lot, and am so grateful for your comment! Thanks!
Performer, that I what I saw and it was entertaining
@@varadero1839 skaters in general were much faster back then than they are today. it's amazing really what they were able to accomplish with such poor skate technology
@@varadero1839Скорость сразу бросается в глаза и удивляет, глядя на год этого выступления.
She reminds me on Shirley Temple in her childhood.I loved her movies decades ago I wanted to be like her in my teenage.
She looks like Glinda in a mini skirt.
Really awesome! Love her sit spins!
you don't see spins like that anymore.
Thank god
why... though?
Lucinda Ruh
Thank god...lol
Katarina Witt used to do those spins. And much better.
wow so beautiful, how can anyone thumbs this down? A lot of people are jealous of sonja Henie's talent.
Unbelievable spins! I agree with Sonique you cannot compare her to today's skating. The equipment and conditions were nothing like today. I have never seen anyone else run such long distances on toe picks! Yes she does not have the straight back of the skater"s of today, but that was not the style then. She was amazing in her day and also went on to have a movie career showcasing her skating. I love today's skaters, but sometimes I wish there was less jumping more just graceful skating. Just my humble opinion.
Amazing speed in her spot on, dead "centered" spins. Crazy quick. Cute choreography and a lovely costume.
Thank you for posting this.
SIDE NOTE: I love how the left the hockey net on the ice pushed up to the boards 😅
Еще в детстве мама специально повела меня на фильм "Серенада Солнечной долины", чтобы я увидела эту фигуристку. В то время только там можно было узнать что такое фигурное катание. И я была очарована.
Absolute perfection ... BEAUTIFUL
Hello Bella,
Thank you for your message! Think she was amazing, and beautiful! Grateful to hear from you!
Three times Olympic figure-skating champion, with a career that spanned 30 years. And no matter how technical they've become, no other skater has come close to Sonja's success.
Ну так у нее выступления слабее чем у нынешних фигуристок.
Dick Button.
@@user-bx2qt8us9h And no matter how technical they've become, no other skater has come close to Sonja's success.
She innovated in areas such as costume design, lighting a show, film skating, merchandising & marketing the woman was a force off the ice. Give respect where its due & do some research before barking. In her time her skating was also cutting edge. She indisputably the greatest in terms of achievements in the sport & beyond it promoting it & building it. There's more to having a great skating legacy beyond jumps & tricks.
She was far ahead of her time! Unbelievable performer! Loved this!
For all those criticizing, do you remember what Hockey was like 50-60 years ago lol? Times were different, expectations were different. In her say, she was brilliant.
Or football with no passing.
Damn she spins fast
And she did it 71 years ago! So grateful to hear from you, and thanks!
varadero
varadero1839 (
whatever happened to beautiful skating??? Now days all we see is athletes doing a gazillion guads! I miss the real thing.
video frame rate seems a tiny bit too high
Carol Durst because if it still stays as this then it's removed from the sports category and it will only be known as a entertainmemt type
Thank you so much for posting this clip! Sonja Henie was ,is ,and forever will remain the greatest talent in figure skating.It is just absurd to compare her to the modern skaters.Her spins are fantastic and her artistry is charming.Thanks again!
Another great clip of the wonderful Sonja at her best....I have always loved her....watching her skate was always a special treat for me during my childhood....she was the inspiration for many future skaters....Bravo Sonja!!!
She was fantastic! Thank you for posting this 😊
Sonja Henie was the first real superstar of figure skating.She set the template for what came after.
OMG!!! Thank you!! Sonja was a hero when I was a kid, but as I only knew about her from magazines, ( we never saw a skating rink in those days) this is the first time I've seen her in action, and she sure was worthy of her fame!
Wow. She was unbelievably gracious and what an incredibly good spinning.
Now I understand the hype.
Robin Kristiansen She was amazing! I'm so glad that you've seen something of her that helped you to see "the hype!" Her performances were mesmerizing, especially for this time, 1945! I posted this, and I'm forever grateful for your generous comment!Best wishes,
varadero
varadero1839 Too bad she also is remembered for her not so friendly too competitive personality and for being a nazisympatiser.
The beauty and the beast.
Robin Kristiansen She was not a Nazi sympathizer. Her 'Not friendly too competitive" personality would have been praised if she was a man.
+mindym22ct Sadly it is true.
+HowDareThey1970 You probably believe the gov't, too.
This is the woman who my sweet grandmother was named after. RIP grandma, I miss you.
Perhaps no sport shows evolution based on modern athleticism and training more than free skating. This looks so simple compared to what is achievable today-but no question Sonia had something in personality only a few still show us...
🥲 I’ve seen ice skating today. I’ve seen ice skating then. And I think it’s maintained it’s beauty and difficulty. I think the people then were talented and I think the people now are talented. However, if not for these legends where would we be now? Gotta appreciate those who pushed boundaries then for those who push boundaries now in figure/ice skating.
What a spinner she was, delightful!
she was far ahead of her time. she changed the sport so much and she is one of the reasons why figure skating is what it is today.
the spin is spectacular . cannot trust anyone could spin that fast and long . awesome
She reminds me of a skating version of Esther Williams ❤️ This was wonderful
Thanks so much for writing! She was tiny, unique and wonderful! Great hearing from you!
What a talent...and beauty! I liked her in the 1941 film "Sun Valley Serenade," too.
the speed in her spins!💕
The quality of this video is superb! It doesn't even look like it's from the 40s, it looks like it's from the 50s or 60s!
Sonja Henie inspired my love of ice skating and ice dancing for ever.culminating with the wonderful Torvil and Dean .
Приятно смотреть. Видно, что ей легко и в удовольствие кататься.
The Flat Foot Spin.No one can do that to this day.Very hard to do,alot harder than on your toe,which is what all the other skaters do-before her and after her.She surpasses all of them.
Kennedy Girl ....spins are done on the ball of the foot. I am assuming that is what you meant.
We don't spin on our toes 🙄
You must be so proud! The idea that anyone could emulate her skating, while looking like a duplicate is fascinating to me! I think I'm not alone in wondering if you have any footage of your mother skating to anything! If so, please consider uploading it to YT! Thanks so much for your gracious remarks! I'm thinking it would be an enormous hit!
She could spin!! A delight to watch this video, thank you for sharing!
She is amazing I had to order. My lucky star I love this movie.
Ну во вращениях и сейчас многим фору даст, прекрасная!!!
Watching her was making me dizzy! I have never seen any modern-day skater spin like her. 👏👏👏
Lovely to watch. Thank you for posting. I find it irritating when people do comparisons with modern skaters as it is logical that there would be improvements in styles and techniques over a period of 69 years.
1BeeJenks Hi 1BeeJenks,
I posted this and agree with you, wholeheartedly. In this age of instant gratification, I think it even leeches into our artistic community. Younger afficionados of this art form and sport, and even some competitive
skaters assume that all of the unique moves of today were always around. Though Sonja was older here, given what we see, there's no reason to believe that she couldn't have executed all of what's being done these days! Thanks so much for writing!
varadero
I would like to see modern skaters try to skate in her 1940s skates too. They were heavier and not in any way detailed out to make her glide easily as the modern Olympic class of skates are. Sadly, people prefer to criticize than to simply enjoy watching and seeing the original greats in action.
Hi Kim,
Hope this reaches you with many kind thanks for your observance and honesty! I just came to the conclusion that even the "nay-sayers" who regard Sonja's performance of little worth only add to her caché and elegance! She was physically a tiny lady, but anyone who had even the rudimentary knowledge of this art would say: She could've done it all!
Thanks kind Kim!
varadero
You are welcome varadero1839. This is truly a beautiful post, and we are fortunate to be able to view this gem. Thanks for posting it :)
Honored to hear from you Kim! Scary to say that this clip and I were born in the same year! I'm delighted and proud to know that I was on this earth when this sensational performer was at the zenith of her career! Thanks so much for having written back to me! Best wishes always, and I hope you'll have time to look for some other bits I've posted!
Thanks again!
varadero
Along with spinning that fast, her spins are extremely centered! It takes a lot of control to do that-- especially with that kind of speed. Even the top skaters today struggle with centering their spins. I agree, Sonja definately paved the way for us modern skaters!
absolutely fabulous
Thank you for this video, I have found out her name from my grandma who said that Sonja was why she had wished to be an ice skater as a little girl. She never did but it was nice to find out something new from her past
now THIS is skating! Now it's just a jumping contest.
those one footed spins are absolutly crazy. Im actually doing a report on her as one of the most influential people in sports. thanks for the video!
What a fascinating job he held! If this is an indication of his abilities, he must have been at the top of his business, and the head of the lighting department! It can't have been easy keeping up with Sonja; she was so fast! Thanks so much for writing! I'm really grateful!
Grateful to hear from you, and guess you already know I agree with you about Sonja's incredible talent! Thanks so much for your comment; it means a lot!
Удивительно! Как приятно смотреть , такая лёгкая, ! И в Москве , нп чистых прудах, люди просто так катались, легко,, и у Толстого , герои на каток отдыхать ходили! Какая была физическая культура! Сейчас это всё так напряжно..... Всем всего доброго!
Wonderful sparkly performance. I remember Sonja Henie was an admired ice dancer, mentioned in the 50's when I was in the first 10 years of my life. In my own way I danced on ice too, on roller skates at the bus-station, showing off and truly feeling my stardom. Passengers, waiting in the buses around my circular "ice-floor" must've smiled often, watching my antics. I used to go very fast too, through the streets, on iron wheels. Fly... fly...wonderful!
To me, the outfit, music and body posture are a charming mix of jukebox style figurines, Disney cartoon girly girly vibes and the village beauty smelling of daisies. In short... the American Dream Innocence that penetrated in many expressions of life in the 40's.
The start of modern life with technological comforts allowing women to enjoy leisure time and stepping out of the box of house-wifery. If that's the right word as opposite to husbandry, which I take as a husband doing the domestic work. But that last role came much later ;)
She was so beautiful & talented...she said she wanted to skate like Fred Astaire danced. I'm still intrigued by her in 2017. Now that's a legacy!
She’s incredible! She’s doing moves in 1936 that we still see skaters doing today. What an icon
WOW! I'm delighted to hear from you, and I'm honored! Thanks so very much! Best wishes, varadero!
So glad to hear from you, and I'm delighted that Sonja made the list. There are so many ill-informed folks out there that tend to belittle Ms. Henie her amazing accomplishments. It's been 66 years since this was recorded! Again, I'm delighted to know not only that this list exists, but your agreement with such. Thanks so much.
This is so therapeutic to me...watching her gracefully glide and spin so effortlessly. I wish I could do this...
I'm so grateful to hear from someone who is not putting her down for not having performed all of the "unique" moves of skaters from today! At this point I think she was around 34 years old, a triple Olympic Medal winner, and a huge Hollywood favorite! My best wishes accompany this message!
varadero
Love this. Love her fast spins
@originalperloocko I'm always amazed at how quickly she could end those long spins; stop on a dime, and then go into the next part of her routine. Thanks so much for writing! She's wonderful!
She was indeed fantastic, she really changed the sport.
But it bothers me when people say she is still the best, she is no longer the best. She was the best of her generation but you can’t compare what they do now to what they did in her time.
All success is relative its about sacrifice & dedication. So what if today's skaters have better training methods & skills? Do they stay around to win consecutive Olympic gold medals & world championships? Do they work hard as pros to create sell out shows that tour the globe? Do they successfully maintain their careers well into their 50's? Do they become Hollywood stars once their competition days end? These things can be quantified. Success isn't just about executing complex skills. Drive, quality, imagination customer service, being a great entertainer delivering a good experience all count for a lot along with, having a great work ethic. Come off the gibberish. Henie's career success is still the gold standard. Frank Sinatra, Michael Jackson & Elvis Presley didn't have rap skills but they sold out more auditoriums than rappers. If you don't have the receipts you can't say you're better. Overall career success as an entertainer has nothing to do with how many complex jumps a skater can perform. If nobody gives a rip what then? What if nobody cares about seeing you jump like a trained seal? Then your show will flop and you won't attract sponsors because you're boring nobody cares about how much you can jump. Are you relevant and do you make skating relevant? Do you offer people something special & memorable? This is the real meat of the matter.
Just wow. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you! Moreover, thanks for your gracious remarks!
varadero
Потрясающая фигуристка была!!!
Real film of last years. Stars and champions are forever. Bright show!
Thanks so much! I'm the 1st to admit my knowledge of the skating world, especially of today is really limited. I can only comment, as I've already done on what she accomplished so many years ago. Thanks to much for your having noticed. You're very kind.
The quality of her spins & speed is first rate & unmatched even today. How can anyone not get dizzy after spinning that fast? That stadium was packed. Henie brought the whole package to an ice show down to costumes, music, back up skaters & male partners. Guess she liked skating pairs. She started the big ice show.
@XxMelinaxMallisaxX Thanks so much for your comment! Many young people STILL don't get the concept that this clip is from 65 years ago! Great to hear a from an observant, intelligent and positive person!
Please see below:
It's actually 3 songs, then a repeat of the 1st. First is "Nobody's Sweetheart," then "The Sweetheart of Sigma Chi," "I'll Get By,'' and then back to "Nobody's Sweetheart." So glad you enjoyed it! Best regards.
Is this from 1945??? OMG! A colorful video and a nice lady with fast, wonderful skating for her time! 🌞
Her spins were brilliant! So fast! I really appreciate her so much more after this particular clip. How old was she when she gave up skating?
@firmingitup AMEN! Wonderful to hear from you - once more the "voice of reason" in the wilderness! I'm beginning to state the obvious. For her time, she was beyond anything that's been done today! That's a given. This clip is 66 years old! Feel I'm in your debt, and grateful for your message. Intellect like yours, will always compliment another talented artist, unconditionally! Once more, kindly disregard those lamentable individuals residing beyond the curtain! They're either jealous or 16!
Thank you so much for your comment! Her beauty transcended mere skating! She was a total artist!
Truly one of the best spinners that I have ever seen👍👍👍 And her interpretation is so good!! Also, she's a Pioneer, her environment, technology are wah different. Be wise. Technically, this is already so damn good. Just enjoy the process, the standard that so we called will also changed in the future.
Good to hear from you and your wise observation! I posted this and love Sonja. Given what she accomplished here, I can only imagine how she'd have fared, very well I imagine, among the skaters of today. For 1945, this was absolutely amazing! Thanks so much for your message.
Before Sonja women wore black skates which she disliked and wore beige ones instead. When her competitors copied her, she switched to white skates and it has stuck ever since! She really has changed the sport, between the skirt lengths, the jumps, and skates! Not to mention the fame she brought to it.
Indeed she was! Thanks so much for your comment; I'm grateful to hear from you.
wow, great performance...
I searched Her- Sonja Brown after watching Oona and Gage Brown's ice dance.
Woaah.. I felt dizzy watching her spins and revolutions. Indeed she was the finest. 😍
To think that Ms.Henie did this when she was already 33, an age when she was already way past her prime.
If only we could have seen her skating in her prime, in her late teens and early twenties, that would've been unimaginable!
Love the spinning! Cant get enough :D
Thanks for your message! Sonja almost disappeared, she spun so fast! She was like a tiny tornado on the ice! Thanks for writing!
varadero
That was AMAZING
She was born 100 years ago today ! (2012-04-08) A wonderful skater and actress with a charming smile !
R.I.P. Sonja Henie
Waahh. Her spins are insane. 😮
@KEBokeh Thanks friend! She was pretty much "out of this world!" So glad to hear from you, and your "holy shit!" What a tribute! Grateful to hear from you!
Thanks for uploading such a marvel. It brings to mind what modern figure skating is mostly lacking - musicality. Denise Bielmann was also great regarding musicality.
Grateful to hear from you! I agree with your musical assesment. I've got to research Denise Bielmann; I'm not familiar with her! Thanks for writing!
varadero
The time goes forward! This is only rare clip.
Another is forever & never will be overcome - The Music Superstars - the actors& actresses- dances!
Sport is going forward!
The lighting technician: *heavy sweating*
Thanks so much for your comment. Both skating and I have changed a lot since 1945, the year of my birth! Didn't get to actually see this movie until around 9 years later, but I'm still impressed. Once more, grateful to hear from you.
p
That last move, like a reverse penche arabesque, was really impressive 👏🏻
More thanks! This one is delightful since she literally skates to 3 different melodies, then returns to the 1st! Something else about her skating, considering her size, she was incredibly fast on the ice! I always forget titles; sorry! This is From It's a Pleasure, 1945!
Thank you for uploading this gem. I guess it's a film done by Hollywood like guys. We don'y have similar quality films even for later times. It's amazing that we have a glimpse in those times. Women have evolved a lot, but men also. There is the same problem with gymnastics. we should not compare skaters, gymnasts. They were all great.
I posted this, and I'm grateful for your comment! Thank you!
Lustig anzuschauen :-)
Und wie sie sich dreht und dann weiter läuft!
Respekt!
Ich müsste mich sowas von übergeben wenn ich nur halb so schnell drehen müsste ;-))
What an incredible skater!!!
Man watching figure skaters is so satisfying
I love her and love went they mentioned her dad💖RIP in heaven both