Cinema: California Carmen

(5 of 5)

Says she: "After all, a girl is—well, a girl. It's nice to be told you're successful at it." But she is volubly aware of the hard work that lies ahead of her, as an actress.

"Rare protection" is Hollywood's phrase for the kind of treatment Columbia has in store for its new star. Her salary, now $800 weekly, is due for a boost. She will also get star billing. At present she is scheduled to play opposite Charles Boyer in Tales of Manhattan, a lead in My Gal Sal, and the title role in My Sister Eileen. Then another musical with Fred Astaire.

Said Astaire of his decorative new partner after their picture was made: "She learned steps faster than anyone I've ever known. I don't know how she does it, but she learns routines at lunch. . . ." Rita, who had done almost no dancing in previous pictures and was unacquainted with her partner's modern steps, gives the credit to the ballet training her father gave her.

When You'll Never Get Rich was in the cans, Astaire invited Eduardo to come to the studio, told him; "She's what I've been looking for." Said Eduardo. with pardonable pride; "We planned it that way."