‘Vanity Fair: Hollywood Calling’ excites viewers with inspiring array of photos

Andonia Goergen 

Staff Writer 

The Annenberg Space for Photography’s newest exhibit, “Vanity Fair: Hollywood Calling,” captivates viewers with its portrayal of the film and television industry through photographs spanning across multiple decades.

This exhibit perfectly encapsulates the glamour of Hollywood, while still emphasizing the hustle and hard work involved by those in the spotlight and behind the scenes. Viewers with an eye for the entertainment industry thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated this exhibit.

“Vanity Fair: Hollywood Calling” focuses on the re-emergence of the “Vanity Fair” magazine in 1983 and the culture, politics, scandals and entertainment featured in the magazine over the years. The exhibit demonstrates the changes seen in the entertainment industry over the past four decades and how the magic of photography can portray these changes.

“Vanity Fair: Hollywood Calling” features 130 photographs by over 50 different photographers. Among the list of photographers is Annie Leibovitz, the primary photographer for “Vanity Fair,” Herb Ritts, George Hurrell and other monumental photographers. Each photographer has a unique style and methods to create a diverse spread of photos.

The photographs on display at this exhibit showcase some of the most well-known actors, athletes, musicians and directors in recent history. Celebrities ranging from Angelina Jolie and Michael B. Jordan to former President Ronald Reagan and First Lady Nancy Reagan are featured. The wide array of subjects ensures that viewers will find specific photographs that resonate with them. 

One of the most captivating pieces on display is a photograph by Leibovitz titled “Pregnant Pause” in which  Demi Moore is seen posing for the cover of “Vanity Fair” in 1991 while pregnant. Although at the time of publication this picture sparked controversy due to Moore’s portrayal in a more sensual light, it is one of the finest photos on display at the exhibit. It is not only a breathtaking shot that pushes the boundaries of what is traditionally seen in magazines, but it is also extremely empowering to women across the world. 

Another display that draws viewers in is a floor-to-ceiling wall equipped with eight large black and white portraits of celebrities including Tom Hanks, Leonardo DiCaprio, Julia Roberts, Meryl Streep, Brooke Shields and Phillip Seymour Hoffman. The display is a compilation of the work of photographers Peter Hapak, Stephen Danelian, Herb Ritts, Steven Meisel, Walter Chin and Ruven Afanador. Each piece has its own personality and character, yet the individual photos compliment each other and produce powerful images.

A photograph of Robin Williams, Eddie Murphy and Jim Carrey by Leibovitz for the April 1997 issue of “Vanity Fair” is a notable piece featured at the exhibition. Each of their unique personalities radiates through the photo and adds positivity to the exhibit as a whole.

Another noteworthy piece by George Hurrel is a picture of Drew Barrymore from 1984 when she was only nine years old. The photograph shows Barrymore sitting in a bright pink dress and feathered hat. This picture demonstrates the timelessness of “Vanity Fair” and the perseverance of the entertainment industry throughout generations of actors, which can be inspiring to viewers. 

“Vanity Fair: Hollywood Calling” is a fascinating exhibit that appeals to those who thoroughly enjoy entertainment and art. Each piece on display has extreme depth and tells a unique story. It portrays the magic of the industry, while still showing the hurdles that these entertainers have to overcome, providing viewers with a dynamic experience unlike any other. 

“Vanity Fair: Hollywood Calling” opened last Saturday at the Annenberg Space for Photography and is currently available to visit until July 26. For more information on visiting hours and future exhibits, visit annenbergphotospace.org.