For centuries, diamonds have been a symbol of wealth, power, and status, and on our screens, it is no different. The precious stones have been central parts of many a plot through the past number of decades, as objects symbolising desire, love, and commitment. In this article, we’re going to take a look at three productions in which diamonds played a central role.
Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953)
This all-time classic starring Marilyn Monroe and Jane Russell follows two showgirls on a glamorous adventure on a cruise ship. While one character, Dorothy, pursues love free from material wealth, her co-star, Lorlei, is the opposite, famously singing ‘Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend’.
The film centres around diamonds and it’s a theme that can still persists in the entertainment industry. For example, in the iGaming sector, companies that offer bingo promotions, including sign-up bonuses, free spins, and daily cash prizes, allow users to play games in the Diamond Room. This bingo room allows gamers to play surrounded by precious stones to emulate a luxury theme, it has a rolling jackpot, while also allowing users to take advantage of the chat functions. They are referenced in songs consistently, most famously in Rihanna’s hit of the same name.
Uncut Gems (2019)
Uncut Gems is a thrilling adventure into the world of diamonds. Directed by Josh and Benny Safdie and starring Adam Sandler, the viewers are brought into the diamond district of New York. Sandler is especially impressive as Howard Ratner, a jeweller who stumbles upon one of the rarest stones on the planet. It’s from here though that his life begins to unravel and mayhem ensues. The jewellery world is unlike what audiences may have seen before, and the directors truly capture the darkness that lies underneath the trade. This makes for intriguing viewing in what turns out to be a fast-paced thriller, and one of Sandler’s best performances.
Leverage (TV Series, 2008–2012)
This popular television show ran for four years, from 2008 until 2012, and followed a type of vigilante group as they sought to protect innocent victims. While diamonds were not always at the centre of the plot, they were used in episodes involving heists or more complex schemes. Mimicking the behaviour of Robin Hood, the show exhibits the ‘steal from the rich to give to the poor’ behaviour of the group while at the same time unmasking greed among the ruling elite. The show’s quick-witted humour and fast-paced storylines provided audiences with a watch that could have you laughing one minute and on the edge of your seat the next, all the while dealing with high-stakes plots, which added to the fascination.
These movies and television shows gave audiences distinct viewpoints of the world of diamonds, whether it be luxury on a five-star cruise or the gritty jewellery district of New York. They provide viewers with storylines that intrigue and amaze in equal measure and showcase why the world has such fascination with these gemstones.