When the movie begins, the studio is trying to sign a temperamental actress for an upcoming Biblical epic. However, her demands are so excessive, the studio decides instead to use a publicity stunt to cast the lead actress. They'll have a contest where women from around the world will be brought to Hollywood for screentests to find the perfect Esther in the epic.
Four unknown actresses are chosen...an Italian, an Austrian, a French woman and an American. THe story consists of their efforts to secure the roles and focuses mostly on how studios operate (or want the public to think they operate) and offers a lot of interesting stories.
The acting is generally very good, though I do think Elsa Martinelli was a poor choice in the film because her accent was too heavy. I am glad I had captions though audiences of 1957 must have struggled with her. The story is clever...with dramatic, humorous and romantic potions throughout. Overall a most enjoyable film...one which is better than I expected.