Hair
United Artists, 1979, Color, 121 minutes, ***
Released March, 1979

If you're looking for deep symbology, metaphors or other hidden meanings in this film, forget it. Take it on surface value. The story is about a young draftee (Treat Williams) who travels to the Army processing facility in New York City. While there he befriends some young people who at least appear to be living in Central Park. They introduce him to a side of life he has not experienced (drugs, sex and music), and he is nearly knocked off-course. But he does make it to the processing center and is eventually sent to a boot camp in Nevada. His friends follow him there, and the ending of the film has an ironic and surprising twist.

The film has some really great music and some wonderful singing and dancing. It's worth watching just for that, and that's a good thing because the story itself is, though somewhat humorous, not much.

While on the subject, I would like to take this opportunity to refute the generally held belief today that all Baby Boomers were hippies, dropouts and freaks. This seems to be what most young pople today believe, and what is generally portrayed in television shows, films, etc. But it's simply not so. The vast majority of our generation were "straights," not into the drug scene, not protestors... not all the bad things that we seem to be remembered for as a generation. Many of us were just plain, hard-working folk, same as today. Remember, it's the squeaky wheels that get the grease.

WARNING: May not be suitable for family fare! It depends on what kind of family you have...

Produced by: Lester Persky and Michael Butler
Associate Producer: Robert Greenhut
Directed by: Milos Forman
Assistant Director: Michael Hausman
Based on the Musical Play, Book and Lyrics by Gerome Ragni and James Rado
Produced for the Broadway Stage by: Michael Butler
Originally Produced by The New York Shakespeare Festival Theatre
Music Arranged and Conducted by: Galt MacDermot
Vocal Arranger and Conductor: Thomas Pierson
Song: "Somebody to Hold" by Rado Ragni and Mac Dermot; sung by Charlie Brown
Male vocal of "White Boys" recorded by The Stylistics
Screenplay by: Michael Weller
Musical Composer: Galt MacDermot
Choreography by: Twyla Tharp
Production Designer: Stuart Wurtzel
Set Decoration: George DeTitta
Costume Designer: Ann Roth
Hair Stylist: Vivienne Walker
Makeup Artist: Robert Mills
Directors of Photography: Richard Kratina, Jean Talvin
Additional Photographer: Richard Pearce
Special Effects: Al Griswold
Filmed in Panavision and Technicolor
Supervising Film Editor: Lynzee Klingman
Film Editors: Stanley Warnow, Alan Heim

Cast: John Savage [Claude], Treat Williams [Berger], Beverly D'Angelo [Sheila], Annie Golden [Jeannie], Dorsey Wright [Hud], Don Dacus [Woof], Cheryl Barnes [Hud's Fiancee], Richard Bright [Fenton], Nicholas Ray [The General], Charlotte Rae [Lady in Pink], Miles Chapin [Steve], Fern Tailer [Sheila's Mother], Charles Deney [Sheila's Father], Herman Meckler [Sheila's Uncle], Agness Breen [Sheila's Aunt], Antonia Rey [Berger's Mother], George Manos [Berger's Father], Linda Surh [Vietnamese Girl], Jane Booke [Debutante #1], Suki Love [Debutante #2], Joe Acord [Claude's Father], Michael Jeter [Sheldon], Janet York [Prison Psychiatrist], Rahsaan Curry [Lafayette, Jr.], Harry Gittleson [The Judge], Donald Alsdurf [MP], Steve Massicotte, Mario Nelson [Barracks Officers], The Twyla Tharpe Dancers [Dancers], American Ballet Theatre [Dancers]

Musical Program: [0:03] Aquarius (sung by Ren Woods, danced by Ensemble); [0:10] Sodomy (sung by Don Dacus); [0:12] Donna (sung by Treat Williams [onscreen] and Chorus, danced by Ensemble); [0:15] Hashish (sung by Chorus); [0:17] Colored Spade (sung by Toney Watkins, Carl Hall, Howard Porter and Chorus; danced by Ensemble); [0:19] Manchester (sung by Treat Williams [onscreen], John Savage and Chorus; danced by Ensemble); [0:20] I'm Black / Ain't Got No (sung by Nell Carter, Toney Watkins, Kurt Yahjian and Chorus; danced by Ensemble); [0:25] Party Music (instrumental); [0:32] I Got Life (sung by Treat Williams and Chorus, danced by Treat Williams); [0:41] Hair (sung and danced by Principals and Chorus); [0:46] L.B.J. (sung and danced by Chorus); [0:48] Old Fashioned Melody (sung by Ron Young) / Electric Blues (sung by Leata Galloway, Cyrena Lomba and Chorus; danced by Ensemble; Claude's hallucination); [0:52] Hare Krishna (sung by Chorus); [1:04] Where Do I Go? (sung by John Savage and Chorus); [1:07] Black Boys (sung by Laurie Beechman, Debi Dye, Ellen Foley, John Maestro, Fred Ferrara, Jim Rosica, Vincent Carella and Chorus) / White Boys (sung by Nell Carter, Charlaine Woodard, Trudy Perkins, Chuck Patterson, H. Douglas Berring, Russell Costen, Kenny Brawner, Lee Wells); [1:11] Walking in Space (sung by Chorus); [1:20] Easy to Be Hard (sung by Cheryl Barnes); [1:28] 3-5-0-0 (sung by Melba Moore, Ronnie Dyson and Chorus; danced by Ensemble); [1:32] Good Morning Starshine (sung by Beverly D'Angelo, Cheryl Barnes and Chorus); [1:37] Somebody to Love (sung on jukebox in background); [1:51] Manchester / Flesh Failures / Let the Sunshine In (sung by John DeRobertas, Grand L. Bush and Cast and Chorus); [1:57] Hair (sung by Chorus behind end credits)

Hallelujah!
MGM, 1929, B/W, 100 minutes, ***
Released August, 1929

In a juke joint, sharecropper Zeke falls for a beautiful dancer, Chick, but she's only setting him up for a rigged craps game. He loses $100, the money he got for the sale of his family's entire cotton crop. His brother Spunk is mortally wounded in the shoot-out which follows. Zeke goes away but returns as Brother Zekiel the preacher. His forceful preaching draws the faithful in large numbers. Even Chick wants to be saved. Zekiel has asked the pretty Missy Rose to marry him, but Chick can still cast a spell over the preacher...

Hallelujah is a cinematic milestone: the first all-black feature from a major studio and famed director King Vidor's (The Champ, The Big Parade) first talkie. But the film surpasses its historical significance, telling a story of such profound dignity and understanding that it as fresh and moving as the day it premiered. Featuring a largely unknown cast and infused with spirituals, folk songs, blues and jazz (Irving Berlin provided two songs for the production), Hallelujah follows the fortunes of Zeke (Daniel L. Haynes), a poor cotton farmer. He succumbs to the temptations of Chick (Nina Mae McKinney), a mercenary honky-tonk girl, finds salvation in religion, and falls again when his obsession for Chick overpowers his better self. Love, loss, passion, redemption and brilliant moviemaking: Hallelujah has it all.

There is a lot of music in this film. Most of it consists of old Negro Spirituals, some old folk songs. I don't know all the songs - some of them may have been entirely impromptu. I've tried to list the ones I do know here, but there are many that I just don't know. Really great singing going on throughout the film. This film will immerse you in the black culture of the slave days! It is outstanding, a one-of-a-kind experience.

Produced by: King Vidor, Irving Thalberg
Director: Milos Forman
Screenplay: King Vidor (story), Wanda Tuchock (scenario), Ransom Rideout (dialogue), Richard Schayer (treatment), Marian Ainslee (titles)
Musical Composer: Irving Berlin and various
Art Director: Cedric Gibbons
Cinematography: Gordon Avil
Editors: Hugh Wynn, Anton Stevenson

Cast: Daniel L. Haynes [Zekial "Zeke" Johnson], Nina Mae McKinney [Chick], William Fountaine [Hot Shot], Harry Gray [Parson Pappy Johnson], Fanny Belle DeKnight [Mammy Johnson], Everett McGarrity [Spunk Johnson], Victoria Spivey [Missy Rose], Milton Dickerson, Robert Couch, Walter Tait [Johnson Children], Dixie Jubilee Singers [Vocal Group], Matthew "Stymie" Beard [Child], William Allen Garrison [Heavy], Sam McDaniel [Adam], Blue Washington [Congregation Member], Evelyn Pope Burwell, Eddie Conners, Eva Jessye [Singers]

Musical Program: Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child (sung by Chorus under titles); Go Down Moses (O, Let My People Go) (sung by Chorus under titles); Old Folks at Home (sung a capella by cotton pickers); Bridal Chorus (Here Comes the Bride) (played on harmonium by Victoria Spivey); Waiting at the End of the Road (sung by Daniel L. Haynes and the Dixie Jubilee Singers, reprised by Daniel L. Haynes); Swanee Shuffle (sung by Nina Mae McKinney, danced by McKinney and Ensemble); Swing Low, Sweet Chariot (sung a cappella by Daniel L. Haynes); Get On Board Little Children (sung a cappella by Church Congregation); (Gimme Dat) Old Time Religion (sung a cappella by Church Congregation, reprised by Nina Mae McKinney); St. Louis Blues (sung a cappella by Nina Mae McKinney); Goin' Home, Goin' Home (sung by Daniel L. Haynes with guitar accompaniment)

There are numerous other song fragments that I don't recognize. It is said that the slaves used songs for a system of coded communication... some may have been extemperaneous, others were well known - even today.

Hallelujah, I'm a Bum
United Artists, 1933, B/W, 82 minutes, ***
Released February, 1933

Classic early musical boasting tunes by Rodgers and Hart, rhyming dialogue and Al Jolson as a New York tramp who falls in love with the mayor's amnesiac girlfriend after rescuing her from a suicide attempt. With Madge Evans, Frank Morgan, Harry Langdon; songs include "I'd Do It Again," "You Are Too Beautiful."

At the time of this writing (summer 2007) there are very few Jolie films that have made the transition from VHS to DVD. That's a shame, especially since nearly all of the VHS tapes are out of print, as are the laser disks. But, some are still available - old rentals and copies from old collections.

Jolie was from a different era (duh). He was one of the first musical superstars. Though his singing style may sound strange at first, as it's so different than anything we've heard in the past half-century, he has grown on me. I'm a fan now. He was a true showman. I do hope more of his films make it to DVD eventually, though I'm not holding my breath.

Produced and Directed By: Lewis Milestone
Screenplay: S.N. Behrman (based on a story by Ben Hecht)
Music Director: Alfred Newman
Song Score: Lorenz Hart and Richard Rodgers
Art Direction: Richard Day
Costume Design: Milo Anderson
Cinematography: Lucien Andriot
Film Editing: W. Duncan Mansfield

Cast: Al Jolson [Bumper], Madge Evans [June Marcher], Frank Morgan [Mayor Hastings], Harry Langdon [Egghead], Chester Conklin [Sunday], Tyler Brooke [Mayor's Secretary], Tammany Young [Orlando], Bert Roach [John], Edgar Connor [Acorn], Dorothea Wolbert [Apple Mary], Louise Carver [Ma Sunday], Harold Goodwin [Burr McIntosh], Richard Rodgers [Bank Teller], Lorenz Hart [Bank Teller]

Musical Program: Hallelujah, I'm a Bum (Al Jolson); I Gotta Get Back to New York (Al Jolson); My Pal Bumper (Edgar Connor, Al Jolson, Harry Langdon and Chorus); Laying the Corner Stone (Frank Morgan and Chorus); Dear June (Al Jolson); Bumper Found a Grand (Edgar Connor, Al Jolson, Harry Langdon and Chorus); What Do You Want with Money (Al Jolson); Kangaroo Court (Edgar Connor, Al Jolson, Harry Langdon and Chorus); I'd Do It Again (Al Jolson); You Are Too Beautiful (Al Jolson)

Hans Christian Andersen
RKO, 1952, Color, 112 minutes, ***½
Released November, 1952

Danny Kaye stars as the Danish cobbler-turned-storyteller extraordinaire in a fanciful family favorite, loosely based on Andersen's life. Lavish sets and ballet sequences and a Frank Loesser score that includes "Inchworm," "Thumbelina" and "The Ugly Duckling" add to this timeless fantasy.

A truly beautiful production - wonderful sets, costumes and photography. Danny Kaye is quite believeable as Andersen. Definitely one of his best films.

The film begins with "Once upon a time there lived in Denmark a great storyteller named Hans Christian Andersen. This is not the story of his life, but a fairy tale about this great spinner of fairy tales."

Produced by: Samuel Goldwyn
Directed by: Charles Vidor
Screenplay: Moss Hart
Based on a Story by Myles Connolly
Musical Composer: Frank Loesser
Musical Director: Walter Scharf
Words and Music by: Frank Loesser
Orchestrations by: Jerome Moross
Choreography by: Roland Petit
The Prince in "The Little Mermaid" Ballet danced by Roland Petit
Art Directors: Richard Day and Clavé
Set Decorations by: Howard Bristol
Ballet Costumes: Designed by Clavé, Executed by Madame Karinska
Other Costumes Designed by: Mary Wills
Make-up: Del Armstrong
Hair Stylist: Helen Turpin
Sound Recorder: Fred Lau
Director of Photography: Harry Stradling
Special Photographic Effects: Clarence Slifer
Color by Technicolor
Technicolor Color Consultant: Richard Mueller
Film Editor: Daniel Mandell

Awards: Academy Award nominations for Best Sound Recording; Best Art Direction/Set Decoration (Color); Best Color Cinematography; Best Costume Design (Color); Best Score (Musical) and Best Song ("Thumbelina")

Cast: Danny Kaye [Hans Christian Andersen], Farley Granger [Niels], introducing Jeanmaire [Doro], Joey Walsh [Peter], Philip Tonge [Otto], Erik Bruhn [The Hussar], Roland Petit [The Prince in "The Little Mermaid Ballet"], John Brown [Schoolmaster], John Qualen [Burgomaster], Jeanne Lafayette [Celine], Robert Malcolm [Stage Doorman], George Chandler [Farmer], Fred Kelsey [First Gendarme], Gil Perkins [Second Gendarme], Peter Votrian [Lars], Additional Cast: Betty Uitti [Princess], Jack Klaus [Sea Witch]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:05] The King's New Clothes (sung by Danny Kaye and Children); [0:13] Inchworm (sung by Danny Kaye and Children); [0:24] I'm Hans Christian Andersen (sung by Danny Kaye); [0:26] Wondeful Copenhagen (sung by Danny Kaye, Joey Walsh, Sailor Ensemble and Chorus); [0:31] I'm Hans Christian Andersen (continued by Danny Kaye); [0:35] Thumbelina (sung by Danny Kaye); [0:37] Ice Skating Ballet (danced by Jeanmaire, Erik Bruhn and Ensemble); [0:50] Dream Ballet (performed by Jeanmaire, Danny Kaye and Farley Granger); [1:01] The Ugly Duckling (sung by Danny Kaye); [1:06] Anywhere I Wander (sung by Danny Kaye); [1:11] I'm Hans Christian Andersen (continued by Danny Kaye); [1:15] Fantasy Wedding Sequence / No Two People (performed by Danny Kaye, Jeanmaire and Chorus); [1:26] The Little Mermaid Ballet (danced by Jeanmaire, Roland Petit, and the Roland Petit Ballet); [1:49] The Ugly Ducking / Wonderful Copenhagen / The King's New Clothes / Thumbelina / I'm Hans Christian Andersen (reprised by Danny Kaye, Children and Chorus)

Hansel and Gretel
(aka Cannon Movie Tales: Hansel and Gretel)
Golan-Globus / Cannon, 1988, Color, 84 minutes, ***

See list of all Cannon Movie Tales

In this live-action version of the classic fairy tale, Hansel (Hugh Pollard) and Gretel (Nicola Stapelton) are the offspring of an impoverished woodcutter (David Warner) and his wife (Emily Richard) who wander into the woods in this Grimm Brother's fairy tale. The trail of bread crumbs they leave to find their way back is eaten by birds, and the children are lured into the gingerbread house of the wicked witch (Cloris Leachman).

Beautifully photographed and charmingly enacted. The children are perfect, and David Warner is wonderful as their devoted father. Cloris Leachman has to be the scariest witch ever to haunt the silver screen!

Producer: Menahem Golan and Yoram Globus
Associate Producer: Patricia Ruben
Executive Producer: Itzik Kol
Director: Len Talan
Screenplay by: Nancy Weems and Len Talan
   (based on the classic fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm)
Original Music: Frank Barber (adapted from the Opera)
Music: Engelbert Humperdinck (from the opera "Hänsel und Gretel")
Adapted and Orchestrated by: Frank Barber
Choreography: Christine Oren
Production Designer: Marek Dobrowolski
Art Direction: Avishay Avivi
Costume Designer: Meira Steinmatz
Special Effects: Terry Glass
Director of Photography: Ilan Rosenberg
Editor: Irit Raz

Cast: Hugh Pollard [Hansel], Nicola Stapleton [Gretel], David Warner [Father], Emily Richard [Mother], Cloris Leachman [Grizelda The Witch], Susie Miller [Marta], Eugene Kline [Farmer], Warren M. Feigin [Baker], Josh Buland [Baker's Boy], Lutuf Nouasser [Blacksmith], Beatrice Shimshoni [Ribbon Lady], Fatima the Donkey

Musical Program: [0:12] Punch and Judy's Dance (sung and danced by Punch and Judy and Children); [0:21] Punch and Judy's Dance (sung and danced by Nicola Stapleton and Hugh Pollard); [0:27] The Fairy Song (sung by Nicola Stapleton); [0:30] Oh, What a Day (sung by David Warner); [0:41] Sugar and Spice (sung by Cloris Leachman); [1:17] The Witch Is Dead (sung by Children's Chorus)

The Happiest Millionaire
Walt Disney, 1967, Color, 144 minutes, ***½
Released November, 1967

It's Philadelphia, 1916. The daughter of an eccentric millionaire (Fred MacMurray), Cordy (Lesley Ann Warren), falls in love with socialite Angier (John Davidson), but has trouble finding acceptance by his snooty mother (Geraldine Page). But true love can conquer all problems. Lots of laughs in this cute comedy with a great cast and a wonderful Sherman Brothers song score. High points include Gladys Cooper and Geraldine Page in "There Are Those," Steele, Warren, Baddeley and MacMurray in the high-stepping "I'll Always Be Irish," Bulifant and Warren slinking around their dorm room in "Bye-Yum Pum Pum" and Lesley Ann Warren and John Davidson in the beautiful "Are We Dancing?"

Producer: Walt Disney
Co-Producer: Bill Anderson
Directed by: Norman Tokar
Assistant Director: Paul Cameron
Screenplay by: A. J. Carothers
Based on the Play by: Kyle Crichton
Suggested by a Book by: Cordelia Drexel Biddle and Kyle Crichton ("My Philadelphia Father")
Produced for the New York Stage by: Howard Erskine and Joseph Hayes
Music Supervised, Arranged and Conducted by: Jack Elliott
Music and Lyrics: Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman
Musical Numbers Staged by: Marc Breaux and Dee Dee Wood
Art Directors: Carroll Clark, John B. Mansbridge
Set Decorators: Emile Kuri, Frank R. McKelvy
Costumes Designd by: Bill Thomas
Make=up by: Gordon Hubbard
Hair Stylist: Vivienne Zavitz
Sound Supervisor: Robert O. Cook
Director of Photography: Edward Colman
Color by Technicolor
Special Effects: Eustace Lycett, Peter Ellenshaw
Film Editor: Cotton Warburton

Awards: Academy Award nomination for Best Costume Design

Cast: Fred MacMurray [Father], Greer Garson [Mother], Gladys Cooper [Aunt Mary], Geraldine Page [Mrs. Duke], Tommy Steele [John Lawless], Hermione Baddeley [Mrs. Worth], John Davidson [Angier], Lesley Ann Warren [Cordy], Paul Petersen [Tony], Eddie Hodges [Livingston], Joyce Bulifant [Rosemary], Sean McClory [Police Sgt.], Jim McMullan [Lt. Powell], William Wellman, Jr. [Lt. Grayson], Aron Kincaid [Walter Blakely], Larry Merrill [Charlie Taylor], Frances Robinson [Aunt Gladys]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (played by Orchestra); [0:05] Fortuosity (sung and danced by Tommy Steele); [0:12] What's Wrong with That! (sung by Fred MacMurray joined by Lesley Ann Warren); [0:18] Watch Your Footwork (sung by Paul Petersen and Eddie Hodges); [0:22] Valentine Candy (sung by Lesley Ann Warren); [0:26] Strengthen the Dwelling (sung by Fred MacMurray and the Biddle Bible Class); [0:41] I'll Always Be Irish (sung and danced by Tommy Steele with Fred MacMurray, Lesley Ann Warren and Hermione Baddeley); [0:50] Bye-Yum Pum Pum (sung and danced by Joyce Bulifant and Lesley Ann Warren); [0:59] Are We Dancing? (sung and danced by John Davidson and Lesley Ann Warren); [1:14] Detroit (sung by John Davidson); [1:34] Fortuosity (reprised by Tommy Steele with a cakewalk by Tommy Steele and George); [1:37] Entr'Act: "Bye-Yum Pum Pum" / "Are We Dancing" (played by Orchestra); [1:58] When a Man Has a Daughter (a few bars) / What's Wrong with That (reprised by Fred MacMurray); [2:01] short segment from the opera CARMEN (sung by Fred MacMurray); [2:06] There Are Those (sung by Gladys Cooper and Geraldine Page); [2:18] production number: Let's Have a Drink On It (sung and danced by Tommy Steele, John Davidson and Ensemble in pub); [2:42] It Won't Be Long 'Til Christmas (sung by Greer Garson and Fred MacMurray); [2:47] Let's Have a Drink On It (reprised by Biddle Bible Class); [2:48] end credits and exit music (played by Orchestra; "Fortuosity" reprised by Tommy Steele)

Happy Go Lovely
Excelsior Films / Associated British Picture Corporation (UK)
Distrubuted in US by RKO, 1951, Color, 95 minutes, ***
Released March, 1951 (UK)
Released July, 1951 (USA)

The Edinburgh Festival (Scotland) provides a colorful background for this lively musical comedy. When penniless dancer Janet Jones (Vera-Ellen) emerges from a limousine at the festival, she's mistaken for the girfriend of the car's millionaire owner - when in fact, she'd only hitched a ride with the driver. Suddenly Broadway director John Frost (Cesar Romero) wants her in his next musical in order to get financing from this "millionaire boyfriend." Soon Janet is romanced by B. G. Bruno (David Niven), the limo's real millionaire owner.

The musical numbers include "One-Two-Three," "Would You - Could You?" and "London Town." Filmed in England, the "Happy Go Lovely" cast is filled with popular British stars such as Bobby Howes, Joyce Carey and Kay Kendall. [from back of DVD case]

Very cute comedy with a number of mistaken identities, which seem to snowball out of control and eventually lead to a romance between theater chorus girl turned star and a greeting card company owner. Vera-Ellen and David Niven are wonderful together.

Produced by: Marcel Hellman
Production Manager: Gerry Mitchell
Directed by: Bruce Humberstone
Screenplay by: Val Guest
Based on a film story by F. Dammann and Dr. H. Rosenfeld
Music by: Mischa Spoliansky
Lyrics: "MacIntosh's Wedding"; One-Two-Three by Mischa Spoliansky; Would You - Could You? by Jack Fishman
Orchestra under the direction of: Louis Levy
Ballet Sequences by: Pauline Grant
Dance Sequences by: Jack Billings
Art Director: John Howell
Assistant Art Director: Robert Jones
Dialogue Director: Desmond Davis
Costumes: Anna Duse
Make-up Artist: Nell Taylor
Hair Styles: Jean Bear
Recording Director: Harold V. King
Sound Recording: Cecil V. Thornton
Director of Photography: Erwin Hillier
Coulour by Technicolor
Technicolor Color Consultant: Joan Bridge
Editor: Bert Bates
Made at the Elstree Studios of Associated Picture Coporation, LTD., England

Cast: (from credits reel) David Niven [B. G. Bruno], Vera-Ellen [Janet Jones], Cesar Romero [John Frost], Bobby Howes [Charlie], Diane Hart [Mae], Gordon Jackson [Paul Tracy], Barbara Couper [Madame Amanda], Henry Hewitt [Dodds], Gladys Henson [Mrs. Urquhart], Hugh Dempster [Bates, Bruno's Chauffeur], Sandra Dorne [Betty], Joyce Carey [Bruno's Secretary], John Laurie [Jonskill], Wylie Watson [Stage Door Keeper], Joan Heal [Phyllis Gardiner], Hector Ross [Harold], Ambrosine Phillpotts [Lady Martin], Molly Urquhart [Madame Amanda's Assistant], David Lober, Jonathon Lucas, Jack Billings, Douglas Scott and His Debonair Boys, Rolf Alexander, Ian Stuart, Leon Biedkyski [Principal Dancers], Additional Cast: Kay Kendall [Secretary], Eve Boswell [singing voice for Vera-Ellen]

Musical Program: [0:02] MacIntosh's Wedding (Sung by Joan Heal, danced Vera-Ellen, principal dancers and Chorus); [0:35] One-Two-Three (sung by Eve Boswell dubbing for Vera-Ellen with Chorus, danced by Vera-Ellen, principal dancers and Chorus); [1:05] ? (played by wandering violinists at restaurant); [1:08] ? (danced by Vera-Ellen and David Niven at restaurant); [1:10] ? (danced by Vera-Ellen and David Niven at restaurant); [1:19] "Frolics to You" opening number (instrumental danced by Vera-Ellen and principal dancers -- some great dancing!); [1:33] Would You - Could You? (sung by Eve Boswell dubbing for Vera-Ellen joined by Chorus, danced by Vera-Ellen); "London Town" (Danced by Vera-Ellen, Principal Dancers and Chorus)

Happy Landing
20th Century-Fox, 1938, B/W, 75 minutes, ***
Released January, 1938

Bandleader Duke Sargent (Cesar Romero) meets Trudy Erickson (Sonja Henie) in Norway, and dances with her twice - which turns out to be a marriage proposal by local custom. Duke high-tails it back to America, but Trudy follows him. Once there, Jimmy Hall (Don Ameche), Duke's manager, tries to save Trudy from philanderer Duke by offering to make her into a big skating star. Though Trudy is taken in by Sargent's romantic flirtations, she soon discovers he has another love interest in Flo Kelly (Ethel Merman), so she finally gives in to Jimmy's offer. He launches her professional skating career, and she becomes a star. But a romantic entanglement traps the foursome in a scandal which rocks the boat for everyone involved.

Sonja's third film is more of a "screwball" comedy than a musical, and it doesn't really center around Sonja's skating as many of her films do. But it is crammed full of music, and features some nice skating numbers as well.

In Charge of Production: Darryl F. Zanuck
Associate Producer: David Hempstead
Directed by: Roy Del Ruth
Original Screen Play by: Milton Sperling and Boris Ingster
Musical Direction: Louis Silvers
Music and Lyrics by: Sam Pokrass and Jack Yellen
"You Appeal to Me" by Walter Bullock and Harold Spina
"War Dance of the Wooden Indians" by Raymond Scott
Dances Staged by: Harry Losee
Art Direction: Bernard Herzbrun, Mark-Lee Kirk
Set Decorations by: Thomas Little
Costumes: Royer
Sound: Eugene Grossman, Roger Heman
Photography: John Mescall
Film Editor: Louis Loeffler

Cast: Sonja Henie [Trudy Ericksen], Don Ameche [Jimmy Hall], Jean Hersholt [Herr Ericksen], Ethel Merman [Flo Kelly], Cesar Romero [Duke Sargent], Billy Gilbert [Counter Man], Raymond Scott Quintet [Themselves], Wally Vernon [Al Mahoney], Leah Ray, Condos Brothers [Specialties], El Brendel [Yonnie], Marcelle Corday [Gypsy], Joseph Crehan [Agent], Eddie Conrad [Waiter], Ben Welden [Skating Rink Manager], Additional Cast: Alex Novinsky [Count], Robert Lowery, Lon Chaney Jr. [Reporters], The Peters Sisters [Themselves]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (played by Orchestrra behind titles); [0:04] You Are the Music to the Words in My Heart (short excerpt sung by Ethel Merman with Cesar Romero at the piano onscreen); [0:09] unidentified polka (excerpt danced by Villagers); [0:15] unidentified polka (danced by Sonja Henie and Cesar Romero and Villagers); [0:19] unidentified polka (danced by Sonja Henie and Cesar Romero and Villagers, then danced by Jean Hersholt); [0:24] Festival Scene from the Snow Maiden Ballet (skated by Sonja Henie and Ensemble, some vocals by Chorus); [0:32] unidentified instrumental number (played by neon-lighted "Duke Sargent and The Swing Rings"); [0:33] A Gypsy Told Me (sung by Leah Ray); [0:37] Hot and Happy (sung by Ethel Merman); [0:44] unidentifed instrumental number (played by "Duke Sargent and His Orchestra"); [0:46] War Dance of the Wooden Indians (instrumental played by Raymond Scott Quintet [as "Dick Sargent and His Orchestra], danced by the Condos Brothers costumed as wooden Indians); [0:56] Strauss Waltz (skated by Sonja Henie, Don Ameche and Ensemble at public skating rink); [0:59] Yonnie and His Oompah (sung by El Brendel and Chorus, skated by Sonja Henie and Ensemble); [1:04] Montage / instrumental medley (skated by Sonja Henie); [1:07] Billy Gilbert Counter-Man comedy routine; [1:09] A Gypsy Told Me (played on jukebox, sung by Don Ameche, danced by Ameche and Sonja Henie); [1:12] Happy Birthday to You (sung by Billy Gilbert to Sonja Henie); [1:22] You Appeal to Me (sung by Ethel Merman, joined by the Raymond Scott Quintet); [1:34] Medley: You Appeal to Me / A Gypsy Told Me / Hot and Happy (instrumental, skated by Sonja Henie and Ensemble on Carlton Roof in New York); [1:40] Happy in Love (sung by Chorus, skated by Sonja Henie and Chorus)

For more information see:


Sonja Henie Snapshot
Visit this Class Act Sister Site!

A Hard Day's Night
United Artists / Miramax, 1964, B/W, 97 minutes, ***
Released July, 1964 (UK)
Released August, 1964 (USA)

John, Paul, George and Ringo travel with their entourage to London to appear in a live television broadcast. Paul's grandfather goes with them, but disappears into the nightclub life as soon as they arrive, leaving the Beatles to search the town for him, providing them a chance for some nightlife, themselves. But the next day, miffed about the boys' interference with his nightlife, grandpa disappears again. Are the boys going to make the live appearance, or are they going to spend their entire time in London chasing after Grandpa??

The film was made in a "day-in-the-life" documentary style, with some real footage of screaming fans. But most is scripted. It's entertaining, and interesting to hear the opinions of various people toward The Beatles and rock music in general. In 1964, everyone thought it was all just a passing fad...

Produced by: Walter Shenson
Associate Producer: Denis O'Dell
Directed by: Richard Lester
Assistant Director: John D. Merriman
Original Screenplay by: Alun Owen
Musical Composer: John Lennon and Paul McCartney
Musical Director: George Martin
Songs by: John Lennon and Paul McCartney
Art Director: Ray Simm
Make-up: John O'Gorman
Hair Styling: Betty Glasow
Director of Photography: Gilbert Taylor
Editor: John Jympson

Awards: Academy Award nominations for Best Original Story and Screenplay and Best Adapted Score.

Cast: John Lennon [John], Paul McCartney [Paul], George Harrison [George], Ringo Starr [Ringo], Wilfrid Brambell [Grandfather], Norman Rossington [Norm], John Junkin [Shake], Victor Spinetti [TV Director], Anna Quayle [Millie], Deryck Guyler [Police Inspector], Richard Vernon [Man on Train], Eddie Malin [Hotel Waiter], Robin Ray [TV Floor Manager], Lionel Blair [TV Choreographer], Alison Seebohm [Secretary], David Jaxon [Young Boy], Additional Cast: Kenneth Haigh [Simon], Marianne Stone [Society Reporter], David Langton [Actor], Clare Kelly [Barmaid], Michael Trubshawe [Casino Manager]

Musical Program: [0:00] I'll Cry Instead (sung by the Beatles; this tune was not in the original print in 1964); [0:02] A Hard Day's Night (sung by The Beatles behind titles); [0:15] I Should Have Known Better (sung by The Beatles); [0:21] I Wanna Be Your Man (excerpt sung by The Beatles, danced by The Beatles and Girl Fans); [0:23] Don't Bother Me (excerpt sung by The Beatles, danced by The Beatles and Girl Fans); [0:24] All My Loving (excerpt sung by The Beatles, danced by The Beatles and Girl Fans); [0:34] If I Fell (sung by The Beatles rehearsing in televsion studio); [0:39] Can't Buy Me Love (sung by The Beatles); [0:47] Opera excerpt (unidentified); [0:50] And I Love Her (sung by The Beatles); [0:55] I'm Happy Just to Dance with You (sung by The Beatles); [1:02] This Boy (Ringo's Theme) (instrumental performed by the George Martin Orchestra); [1:13] Can't Buy Me Love (sung by The Beatles); The TV Show: [1:16] Tell Me Why (sung by The Beatles); [1:18] If I Fell (sung by The Beatles); [1:20] I Should Have Known Better (sung by The Beatles); [1:23] She Loves You (sung by The Beatles); [1:26] A Hard Day's Night (sung by The Beatles behind end credits)

Harum Scarum
(aka Harem Holiday)
MGM, 1965, Color, 95 minutes, **½
Released November, 1965

When dashing matinee idol Johnny Tyronne (Elvis) is kidnapped, he's swept into an Arabian Nights scenario run amok, complete with an assassination plot against a chic sheik and a dazzling damsel in distress (Mary Ann Mobley). It's a swashbuckling delight featuring nine hit songs including "Harem Holiday," "Golden Coins," "Shake That Tambourine" and "Go East Young Man."  [from back of VHS sleeve]

A definite high-point of this otherwise routine comedy is the scene where Elvis dances with Vicki Malkin - reminiscent of the Hat Dance scene danced by Gene Kelly and Sharon McManus in Anchors Aweigh (1945). Very cute! Elvis' songs are all wonderful, especially "Golden Coins." Costumes are great. The stage settings are those used for the 1925 film "King of Kings," though the higher film definition and color of 1965 doesn't do the set any favors.

Produced by: Sam Katzman
Directed by: Gene Nelson
Assistant Director: Eddie Saeta
Written by: Gerald Drayson Adams
Technical Advisor: Colonel Tom Parker
Music Supervised and Conducted by: Fred Karger
Vocal Backgrounds by: The Jordanaires
Song Score: Bill Giant, Bernie Baum, Florence Kaye
Choreography by: Earl Barton
Art Direction: George W. Davis and H. McClure Capps
Set Decoration: Henry Grace; Don Greenwood, Jr.
Costume Design: Beau Vanden Ecker, Gene Ostler, Margo Weintz
Make-Up by: William Tuttle
Hair Styles by: Sydney Guilaroff
Recording Supervision: Franklin Milton
Director of Photography: Fred H. Jackman
Filmed in Metrocolor
Film Editor: Ben Lewis

Cast: Elvis Presley [Johnny Tyronne], Mary Ann Mobley [Princess Shalimar], Fran Jeffries [Aishah], Michael Ansara [Prince Dragna], Jay Novello [Zacha], Philip Reed [King Toranshah], Theo Marcuse [Sinan], Billy Barty [Baba], Dirk Harvey [Mokar], Jack Costanzo [Julna], Larry Chance [Captain Herat], Barbara Werle [Leilah], Brenda Benet [Emerald], Gail Gilmore [Sapphire], Wilda Taylor [Amethyst], Vicki Malkin [Sari], Ryck Rydon [Mustapha], Richard Reeves [Scarred Bedouin], Joey Russo [Yussef], The Jordanaires [background vocals]

Musical Program: [0:00] Harem Holiday (sung behind titles by Elvis Presley and The Jordanaires offscreen); [0:03] My Desert Serenade (sung in movie "Sands in the Desert" by Elvis Presley onscreen, accompanied by The Jordanaires offscreen); [0:05] Go East Young Man (sung onscreen by Elvis Presley at preview of "Sands at the Desert," accompanied by The Jordanaires offscreen); [0:12] Mirage (sung by Elvis Presley onscreen, accompanied by The Jordanaires offscreen); [0:26] Kismet (Elvis Presley onscreen, accompanied by The Jordanaires offscreen); [0:32] Shake That Tambourine (danced by Gail Gilmore, Wilda Taylor and Brenda Benet, sung and danced by Elvis Presley onscreen accompanied by The Jordanaires offscreen); [0:42] Hey Little Girl (danced by Vicki Malkin, sung and danced by Elvis Presley onscreen, accompanied by The Jordanaires offscreen); [0:47] Golden Coins (sung by Elvis Presley onscreen, accompanied by The Jordanaires offscreen); [0:53] unidentified Arab-esque dance number (danced by Gail Gilmore, Wilda Taylor and Brenda Benet); [0:56] So Close, Yet So Far (From Paradise) (sung by Elvis Presley onscreen, accompanied by The Jordanaires offscreen); [1:22] Harem Holiday (sung by Elvis Presley onscreen, danced by Harem Girls, accompanied by The Jordanaires offscreen)

The Harvey Girls
MGM, 1946, Color, 101 minutes, ***½
Released January, 1946

MGM's answer to "Oklahoma!" this western-musical-comedy follows the plight of the Harvey House waitresses in their battle to tame the wild west. Mid-westerner Susan Bradley (Judy Garland) moves to Sandrock, New Mexico to marry her lonely-heart pen-pal, H. H. Hartsey. But when she discovers that he's "an old buzzard," she gives him up for a job as a waitress at the new Harvey House. Trouble brews between the Harvey Girls and the dance hall girls at the Alhambra saloon, and the fun begins. One of Judy Garland's biggest hits, The Harvey Girls sports a great cast, plenty of laughs and many lively musical numbers, including the Academy Award winning production number "On the Atchison, Topeka and the Santa Fe."

"When Fred Harvey pushed his chain of restaurants farther and farther west along the lengthening tracks of the Santa Fe, he brought with him one of the first civilizing forces this land had known -- The Harvey Girls.

"These winsome waitresses conquered the west as surely as the Davy Crockets and the Kit Carsons -- not with powder, horn and rifle, but with a beefsteak and a cup of coffee."

"To these unsung pioneers, whose successors today still carry on in the same tradition, we sincerely dedicate this motion picture."

I can remember eating at the Harvey House in Albuquerque as a child, and it was one of the finer restaurants in town. Sometime in the 1960s, the restaurant was moved from a location near the train station to a location at the airport, signalling the beginning of the transition of mass travel from rail to air. [JJ]

Produced by: Arthur Freed
Associate Producer: Roger Edens
Directed by: George Sidney
Screen Play by: Edmund Beloin, Nathaniel Curtis, Harry Crane, James O'Hanlon and Samson Raphaelson
Additional Dialogue by: Kay Van Riper
Based on the Book by Samuel Hopkins Adams and the Original Story by Eleanore Griffin and William Rankin
Words and Music by: Johnny Mercer and Harry Warren
Musical Direction: Lennie Hayton
Orchestration: Conrad Salinger
Vocal Arrangements: Kay Thompson
Musical Numbers Staged by: Robert Alton
Art Direction: Cedric Gibbons, William Ferrari
   Set Decoration: Edwin B. Willis
      Associate: Mildred Griffiths
Costume Supervision: Irene
Costumes Designed by: Helen Rose
Men's Costumes: Valles
Make-Up Created by: Jack Dawn
Recording Director: Douglas Shearer
Director of Photography: George Folsey
Special Effects: Warren Newcombe
Photographed in Technicolor
Technicolor Color Director: Natalie Kalmus
Associate: Henri Jaffa
Film Editor: Albert Akst

"The help of the Fred Harvey Company on many historical details is thankfully acknowledged."

Awards: Won Best Song Academy Award ("On the Atchison, Topeka and the Santa Fe"), Harry Warren (Music), Johnny Mercer (Lyrics); won Academy Award nomination for Best Score - Musical (Lennie Hayton)

Cast: Judy Garland [Susan Bradley], John Hodiak [Ned Trent], Ray Bolger [Chris Maule], Angela Lansbury [Em], Preston Foster [Judge Sam Purvis], Virginia O'Brien [Alma], Kenny Baker [Terry O'Halloran], Marjorie Main [Sonora Cassidy], Chill Wills [H. H. Hartsey], Selena Royle [Miss Bliss], Cyd Charisse [Deborah], Ruth Brady [Ethel], Jack Lambert [Marty Peters], Edward Earle [Jed Adams], Morris Ankrum [Rev. Claggett], Ben Carter [John Henry], William "Bill" Phillips [Cowboy], Norman Leavitt [2nd Cowboy], Horace McNally ["Goldust" McClean], Additional Cast: Catherine McLeod [Louise], Virginia Hunter [Jane], Ray Teal [Conductor], Jack Clifford [Fireman], Vernon Dent [Engineer], Paul "Tiny" Newlan [Station Agent], Jim Toney [Mule Skinner], Lucille Casey, Mary Jo Ellis, Dorothy Gilmore, Gloria Hope, Mary Jane French, Daphne Moore, Joan Thorson, Dorothy Tuttle [Harvey Girls], Hazel Brooks, Kay English, Hane Hall, Vera Lee, Peggy Maley, Erin O'Kelly, Dorothy Van Nuys, Eve Whitney, Dallas Worth [Dance Hall Girls], Byron Harvey, Jr, Beverly Tyler [Bits], Marion Doenges [singing voice of Cyd Charisse], Virginia Rees [singing voice of Angela Lansbury]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture: "On the Atchison, Topeka and the Santa Fe" / "Swing Your Partner Round and Roung" (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:02] In the Valley (Where the Evening Sun Goes Down) (sung by Judy Garland); [0:11] Wait and See (sung by Virginia Rees dubbing for Angela Lansbury); [0:14] On the Atchison, Topeka and the Santa Fe (performed by Judy Garland, Cyd Charisse, Virginia O'Brien, Marjorie Main, Ray Bolger, Benny Carter, The Seckler Group, The Williams Brothers (Andy, Bob and Don), Alice Ludes, Dorothy McCarty, Lee Gotch, Jud Conlon, Ralph Blane, Loulie Jean Norman, Dorothy Jackson, Judy Matson, Mary Moder, Ruth Clark, Jimmie Garland, Dorothy Wilkerson, Vivian Edwards, Joe Karnes, Kenneth Rundquist, Claude Martin, Arnet Amos, Elva Kellog and the MGM Studio Chorus); [0:30] Training Montage (The Train Must be Fed) (performed by Edward Earle, Selena Royle, Marjorie Main, Joe Karnes, Elva Kellog, Judy Garland, Virginia O'Brien, Cyd Charisse and the MGM Studio Chorus); [0:32] Oh, You Kid (sung by Virginia Rees dubbing for Angela Lansbury); [0:40] Wait and See (sung by Kenny Baker); [0:41] It's a Great Big World (performed by Judy Garland, Virginia O'Brien and Marion Doenges dubbing for Cyd Charisse); [0:56] The Wild, Wild West (sung by Virginia O'Brien); [1:06] Wait and See (sung by Kenny Baker and Marion Doenges dubbing for Cyd Charise); [1:15] On the Atchison, Topeka and the Santa Fe (instrumental arrangement danced by Ray Boger); [1:18] Swing Your Partner Round and Round (sung and danced by Judy Garland, Marjorie Main and the MGM Studio Chorus); [Outtake] Hayride (sung by Judy Garland, Ray Bolger and the MGM Studio Chorus); [Outtake] My Intuition (sung by Judy Garland and John Hodiak)

For more details see the The Harvey Girls page on JGDB:


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Hawaii Calls
Principal Productions / RKO, 1938, B/W, 65 / 72 minutes. **½
Released March, 1938

Billy Coulter (Bobby Breen) and best friend Pua (Pua Lani) stow away on a life boat onboard an ocean liner bound from San Francisco to Hawaii. Pua is Hawaiian and wants to return home. Billy is San Franciscan, but his parents were both killed in an airplane crash, so he plans on living in Hawaii with Pua. Strings (Ned Sparks) discovers the boys and takes them under his wing, though the ship's captain intends on turning Pua over to the Hawaiian officials and taking Billy back to San Franciso on their return voyage. As the ship sails into Honolulu (an interesting sight in 1938!) Billy and Pua dive overboard and make their escape. In order to evade capture, the boys go to Maui to live with Pua's Aunt. While there, they become entangled in a burglary of some government plans.

It's a fun film, though the story sort of lumbers along between musical numbers. The music is very nice, though, and definitely worth the price of admission!

Producer: Sol Lesser
Directed by: Edward F. Cline
Assistant Director: John Sherwood
Screen Play: Wanda Tuchock
   (Adapted from the novel Stowaways in Paradise by Don Blanding)
Title "Hawaii Calls" inspired by Radio Station K-G-M-B Honolulu
Music: "Hawaii Calls," "Down Where the Trade Winds Blow" by Harry Owens; "That's the Hawaiian in Me" by Johnny Noble and Margarita Lake; "Espeana" by Chabrier; "Song of the Islands" by Charles King; "Macushla" by Josephinie V. Rowe and Dermot MacMurrough
Hawaiian Backgrounds: Paul Marques
Musical Score: Hugo Riesenfeld
Musical Supervision: Abe Meyer
Vocal Supervision: Max Terr
Art Direction: Lewis J. Rachmil
Wardrobe Supervision: Waldron Johnson
Original Song Score: Johnny Noble and Harry Owens
Dance Director: Larry Ceballos
Photography: Jack McKenzie
Sound Engineer: Hugh McDowell, Jr.
Film Editor: Arthur Hilton

Cast: Bobby Breen [Billy Coulter], Ned Sparks [Strings], Irvin S. Cobb [Captain O'Hare], Gloria Holden [Mrs. Milburn], Warren Hull [Commander Milburn], Mamo Clark [Hina], Raymond Paige [Himself], Aggie Auld [Hula Dancer], Cy Kendall [Hawaiian Policeman], Herbert Rawlinson [Mr. Harlow], William Harrigan [Blake], Juanita Quigley [Doris Milburn], Pua Lani [Pua], Dora Clement [Mrs. Harlow], Donald Kirke [Regon], Philip Ahn [Julius], Ward Bond [Muller], William Abbey [Lonzo], Birdie De Bolt [Aunty Pinau], Additional Cast: (from various sources) Laurence Duran [Banana], Ruben Maldonado [Solly], Ruben Duran [Ka-ne], Jerry Mandy [Taxi Driver], Uilani Silva [Hula Dancer]

Musical Program: [0:09] Down Where the Trade Winds Blow (sung by Bobby Breen); [0:12] Macushla (excerpt sung by Bobby Breen); [0:13] España (misspelled as "Espeana" on film titles) (excerpt played by Raymond Paige and His Orchestra); [0:17] Macushla (sung by Bobby Breen with Raymond Paige and His Orchestra); [0:19] unidentified instrumental number played by Raymond Paige and His Orchestra; [0:22] Hawaii Calls (sung by Chorus); [0:32] Hawaii Calls (sung by Bobby Breen with Chorus); [0:40] That's the Hawaiian in Me (sung by Bobby Breen); [0:43] unidentified Hawaiian number (sung by Chorus, danced by Hula dancing Chorus Girls); [0:50] Song of the Islands (Na Lei O Hawaii) (sung by Bobby Breen); [1:00] Aloha Oe (sung by Bobby Breen and Chorus)

Head
Raybert / Columbia, 1968, Color, 86 minutes
Released November, 1968

The Monkees' only feature film is a riotous hodgepodge of spaced-out comedy vignettes mixed with a collage of old film clips and cameos of Frank Zappa, Victor Mature, Teri Garr, Annette Funicello, Carol Doda and others. This classic culmination of Monkeemania was co-authored by Jack Nicholson and director Bob Rafelson.

Producers: Jack Nicholson and Bob Rafelson
Executive Producer: Bert Schneider
Director: Bob Rafelson
Screenplay: Jack Nicholson and Bob Rafelson
Musical Score: Ken Thorne
Song Score: various
Choreography: Toni Basil
Art Direction: Sydney Z. Litwack
Set Decoration: Ned Parsons
Costume Design: Gene Ashman
Special Effects: Bruce Lane, Chuck Gaspar and Burton Gershfield
Cinematography: Michel Hugo
Film Editing: Mike Pozen

Cast: Peter Tork, Davy Jones, Micky Dolenz, Michael Nesmith [The Monkees], Annette Funicello [Minnie], Timothy Carey [Lord High 'n' Low], Logan Ramsey [Officer Faye Lapid], Abraham Sofaer [Swami], Vito Scotti [I. Vitteloni], Charles Macaulay [Inspector Shrink], T. C. Jones [Mr. and Mrs. Ace], Charles Irving [Mayor Feedback], William Bagdad [Black Sheik], Percy Helton [Heraldic Messenger], Sonny Liston [Extra], Ray Nitschke [Private One], Carol Doda [Sally Silicone], Frank Zappa [The Critic], June Fairchild [The Jumper], Teri Garr [Testy True], I. J. Jefferson [Lady Pleasure], Victor Mature [Big Victor]

Musical Program: Porpoise Song (Theme From Head); Ditty Diego (War Chant); Circle Sky; Supplicio; Can You Dig It; Gravy; Superstitous; As We Go Along; Dandruff?; Daddy's Song; Poll; Do I Have To Do This All Over Again

Heartbeat
RKO, 1946, B/W, 102 minutes, ***
Released May, 1946

Ginger Rogers enrolls in a school of the fine art of pick-pocketing and attends a society ball for her first field practice. This isn't a musical at all, but Ginger Rogers does sing one song. I enjoy Ginger's work, and this film is entertaining, even though it's not one of her best (though her acting is top-notch as always).

Produced by: Robert and Raymond Hakim
Production Manager: Joe C. Gilpin
Directed by: Sam Wood
Assistant Director: John Sherwood
Adaptation by: Morrie Ryskind
Based on an Original Screen Play by: Hans Wilhelm, Max Kolpe, Michel Duran (French screenplay "Battlement de Coeur")
Additional Dialogue: Rowland Leigh
Music by: Paul Misraki
Musical Director: C. Bakaleinikoff
Production Design: Lionel Banks
Set Decorator: George Sawley
Gowns for Miss Rogers: Howard Greer
Recorded by: John Tribby
Director of Photography: Joseph Valentine
Film Editors: Roland Gross, J. R. Whittredge

Cast: Ginger Rogers [Arlette Lafon], Jean-Pierre Aumont [Pierre La Roche], Basil Rathbone [Professor Aristide], Adolphe Menjou [Ambassador], Melville Cooper [Roland Latour], Mikhail Rasumny [Yves Cadubert], Mona Maris [Ambassador's Wife], Henry Stephenson [Minister], Eduardo Ciannelli [Baron Dvorak], Major Sam Harris [Ball Guest], Eddie Hayden [Thief], George Davis [Butler]

Musical Program: [1:09] Can You Guess (sung by Ginger Rogers)

The Heat's On
Columbia, 1943, B/W, 79 minutes, ***
Released December, 1943

Fay Lawrence (Mae West) is a big Broadway star on contract to producer Tony Ferris (William Gaxton). It doesn't take long for Fay to discover that Ferris is a weasel and she wants out. When the Bainbridge decency organization files a complaint against Ferris' show, the cops shut it down. That gives Mae the perfect excuse to jump ship and join a new show being put together by a rival producer. Ferris is not a happy camper!

Ferris befriends Hubert Bainbridge (Victor Moore), brother of Hannah Bainbridge (Almira Sessions) of the Bainbridge decency organization. Ferris puts the squeeze on Hubert to threaten his rival producer due to Mae being on their blacklist. Then he buys the show from the desperate producer for a pittance and takes over. And Ferris even convinces Moore to fund the show! Mae finds herself, once again, under Ferris' thumb.

When Hannah returns from her convention and discovers that her brother is underwriting a Broadway show, she goes ballistic and puts a stop-pay on all checks that have been issued to Ferris. What is a producer to do? He must find a way to cover all his outstanding checks and finish the production!

Fun film with a great cast. Lina Romay and Xavier Cugat add to the music.

Produced by: Gregory Ratoff
Associate Producer: Milton Carter
Directed by: Gregory Ratoff
Assistant Director: Robert Saunders
Original Screen Play by: Fitzroy Davis, George S. George and Fred Schiller
From a Story by Boris Ingster and Fred Schiller
Songs: "There Goes That Guitar," "Hello, Mi Amigo," "The White Keys and the Black Keys," "I'm Just a Stranger in Town," "They Looked So Pretty on the Envelope" by Jay Gorney, Edward Eliscu, Henry Myers; "Thinkin' About the Wabash" by Jule Styne and Sammy Cahn
Original Music: John Leipold
Musical Director: Yasha Bunchuk
Choreograpy by: David Lichine
Production Designer: Nicolai Remisoff
Art Direction: Lionel Banks
Associate: Walter Holscher
Set Decorations: Joseph Kish
Costumes by: Walter Plunkett
Sound Recodring: Lodge Cunningham
Director of Photography: Franz F. Planer
Edited by: Otto Meyer

Cast: Mae West [Fay Lawrence], Victor Moore [Hubert Bainbridge], William Gaxton [Tony Ferris], Lester Allen [Mouse Beller], Alan Dinehart [Forrest Stanton], Mary Roche [Janey Adair], Lloyd Bridges [Andy Walker], Almira Sessions [Hannah Bainbridge], Sam Ash [Frank], David Lichine [Specialty Dancer], Leonard Sues [Trumpet Player], Jack Owens [Himself], Joan Thorsen [Singer], Hazel Scott [Herself], Xavier Cugat and His Orchestra [Themselves], Additional Cast: Lina Romay [Herself, singer with Xavier Cugat's Orchestra], Boyd Irwin [Dr. H. Snyder], Harry Harvey [Harry], Leon Belasco [Agent], Edward Earle [Writer], Eddie Hall [Member of Quartet], Harry Shannon [Police Captain], John Sheehan [Police Officer], Colin Kenny, Harold Miller [Nightclub Patrons], Leo Mostovoy [Headwaiter], Donald Kerr [Stage Manager], Ray Teal, Harry Tyler [Stagehands]

Musical Program: [0:02] I'm Just a Stranger in Town (sung by Mae West with a large silent chorus); [0:17] Negra Leono (sung by Lina Romay with Xavier Cugat and His Orchestra); [0:21] There Goes That Guitar (sung by Joan Thorsen and danced by David Lichine and Chorus Girls with Xavier Cugat and His Orchestra); [0:32] Antonio (sung by Lina Romay with Xavier Cugat and His Orchestra); [0:43] The White Keys and the Black Keys (sung by Hazel Scott at the piano, accompanied by Orchestra); [0:48] Thinkin' About the Wabash (sung by Mary Roche, Jack Owen and Male Quartet); [1:01] Caisson Song (sung by Hazel Scott at the piano, marched and danced by Chorus, accompanied by Orchestra); [1:04] They Looked So Pretty on the Envelope (sung by Victor Moore); [1:17] Hello, Mi Amigo (sung by Mae West and Chorus)

Heidi
20th Century-Fox, 1937, B/W, 87 minutes, ***½
Released October, 1937

Orphaned Heidi (Shirley Temple) is taken by her mean and nasty aunt to live with her grandfather high in the Swiss Alps. The Grandfather (as she calls him) has been feuding with the nearby villagers for many years, so Heidi must clear that up! But not before she's kidnapped by her aunt and taken to the city to be a live-in companion for Klara Sesemann (Marcia Mae Jones). Klara quickly becomes attached to Heidi and doesn't want her to leave, but Heidi's only though is getting back to The Grandfather.

A true classic! One of Shirley's best films has endured the test of time and remains popular today. We baby boomers grew up with this film on TV every year, just like The Wizard of Oz. Features a little musical song and dance number by Shirley Temple and a handful of children called "In Our Little Wooden Shoes."

In Charge of Production: Darryl F. Zanuck
Associate Producer: Raymond Griffith
Directed by: Allan Dwan
Screen Play by: Walter Ferris and Julien Josephson
Based on the Novel "Heidi" by Johanna Spyri
Musical Direction: Louis Silvers
Song Score: Lew Pollack and Sidney D. Mitchell
Art Direction: Hans Peters
Set Decorations by: Thomas Little
Costumes: Gwen Wakeling
Sound: George Leverett, Roger Heman
Photography: Arthur Miller
Film Editor: Allen McNeil

Cast: Shirley Temple [Heidi], Jean Hersholt [Adolph Kramer], Arthur Treacher [Andrews], Helen Westley [Blind Anna], Thomas Beck [Pastor Schultz], Mary Nash [Fraulein Rottenmeier], Sidney Blackmer [Herr Sesemann], Pauline Moore [Elsa], Mady Christians [Aunt Dete], Marcia Mae Jones [Klara Sesemann], Delmar Watson [Peter, Goat Boy], Egon Brecher [Innkeeper], Christian Rub [Baker], Sig Rumann [Police Captain], George Humbert [Organ Grinder]

Musical Program: [0:19] In Our Little Wooden Shoes (sung by Shirley Temple, danced by Shirley Temple and Childrens Ensemble); [0:30] Hymn: Holy God We Praise Thy Name (sung by Shirley Temple, Jean Hersholt, Choir and Congregation); [1:05] Silent Night, Holy Night (sung by Shirley Temple and Chorus); [1:13] The First Noel (sung by Chorus); Excerpts of other Christmas carols in background in several of the city scenes

The Helen Morgan Story
Warner Bros., 1957, B/W, 118 minutes, ***
Released October, 1937

Mostly fictional story of the life of popular singer Helen Morgan. Miss Morgan was a legendary cafe singer and stage musical star of the early part of the 20th Century. She can be seen in the 1936 screen adaptation of Show Boat, where she reprises her role as Julie in the original 1927 stage production.

This film is more of a drama with music than a true musical. But it has many good musical numbers and the background score is great. I have no idea how accurate the story is, but if it's like most biopics, it's probably more fiction than fact. Being a fan of Gogi Grant, I find it distracting to hear her voice coming from Ann Blyth. Though I must say the lip-syncing is great (I don't know if Ann Blyth is singing to Gogi's playback, or if Gogi did voice-overs). Ann Blyth seems to have studied Helen Morgan's style. It's a good film, though, with some really fine acting.

Produced by: Martin Rackin
Directed by: Michael Curtiz
Assistant Director: Paul Helmick
Written by: Oscar Saul, Dean Riesne, Stephen Longstreet and Nelson Gidding
Musical Numbers Staged by: LeRoy Prinz
Songs Sung by: Gogi Grant
Vocal Arrangements by: Charles Henderson
Makeup Supervisor: Gordon Bau
Art Director: John Beckman
Set Decorator: Howard Bristol
Costumes Designed by: Howard Shoup
Sound by: Francis J. Scheid, Dolph Thomas
Director of Photography: Ted McCord
Filmed in CinemaScope
Film Editor: Frank Bracht

Cast: Ann Blyth [Helen Morgan], Paul Newman [Larry], Richard Carlson [Wade], Gene Evans [Whitey Krause], Alan King [Ben], Cara Williams [Dolly], Virginia Vincent [Sue], Walter Woolf King [Ziegfeld], Dorothy Green [Mrs. Wade], Edward Platt [Haggerty], Warren Douglas [Hellinger], Sammy White [Sammy], De Castro Sisters [Singers], Leonid Kinskey [Accordion Player], Jimmy McHugh [Himself], Rudy Vallee [Himself], Walter Winchell [Himself], Gogi Grant [singing voice for Ann Blyth]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture: Why Was I Born? (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:08] If You Were the Only Girl in the World (sung by Gogi Grant dubbing for Ann Blyth); [0:11] Avalon (sung by Gogi Grant dubbing for Ann Blyth and Chorus Girls); [0:30] Girl Friend (sung and danced by Mixed Chorus, fades to background); [0:32] The One I Love Belongs to Somebody Else (sung by Gogi Grant dubbing for Ann Blyth); [0:35] Love Nest (short excerpt sung by Gogi Grant dubbing for Ann Blyth); [0:39] Medley: Do, Do, Do / Breezin' Along with the Breeze (sung by Gogi Grant dubbing for Ann Blyth); [0:42] My Time Is Your Time (excerpt sung by Rudy Vallee, fades to instrumental behind dialogue); [0:44] Tip Toe Through the Tulips (used instrumentally in background score); [0:47] The Man I Love (sung by Gogi Grant dubbing for Ann Blyth); [0:54] Do It Again (used instrumentally in background score at Larry's nightclub "The Helen Morgan Club"); [0:58] On the Sunny Side of the Street (sung by Gogi Grant dubbing for Ann Blyth); [1:00] Tea for Two (used instrumentally in background score); [1:03] I Want to Be Happy (sung by trio of two men and one woman [I don't know who they are]); [1:08] Why Was I Born? (sung by Gogi Grant dubbing for Ann Blyth, also used instrumentally throughout the background score); [1:16] Why Was I Born? (used instrumentally in background score); [1:17] Medley: Someone to Watch over Me / Deep Night / April in Paris (sung by Gogi Grant dubbing for Ann Blyth); [1:22] Sweet Georgia Brown (short excerpt sung by Cara Williams, danced by Cara Williams and Chorus Girls); [1:26] Somebody Loves Me (sung by Gogi Grant dubbing for Ann Blyth); [1:32] Bill (sung by Gogi Grant dubbing for Ann Blyth); [1:35] You Do Something to Me (sung by Gogi Grant dubbing for Ann Blyth); [1:36] unidentified jazz number (played in nightclub, fades to background); [1:40] Why Was I Born? (sung by Gogi Grant dubbing for Ann Blyth in background); [1:55] Can't Help Lovin' Dat Man (sung by Gogi Grant dubbing for Ann Blyth); I've probably missed some tunes in the background score - it's almost wall-to-wall song tunes. I've intentionally left out a number of very short excerpts.

Heller in Pink Tights
Paramount, 1960, Color, 100 minutes, ***
Released February, 1960 (USA)

Based on a novel by Louis L'Amour and full of witty exchanges and a striking visual style, the film follows a vaudeville troupe that stays one step ahead of the bill collector as it tours the frontier circa 1880. The central premise finds ringleaders Angela Rossini (Loren) and Tom Healy (Quinn) needing a more flamboyant act than normal in order to entertain the citizens of the wild West.

A fun, entertaining and interesting Western - not a musical at all, but does feature a short scene from Offenbach's "La Belle Hélène" (with Loren in the title role). Features Anthony Quinn and Sophia Loren, based on a Western by Louis L'Amour, directed by the legendary George Cukor. I find it grows on me every time I watch it! Also features Margaret O'Brien in an all-too-rare adult role.

Produced by: Carlo Ponti and Marcello Girosi
Associate Producer: Lewis E. Ciannelli
Directed by: George Cukor
Assistant Director: C. C. Coleman, Jr.
Screenplay by: Dudley Nichols and Walter Bernstein
Based on a Novel (Heller With a Gun) by Louis L'Amour
Music Scored and Conducted by: Daniele Amfitheatrof
Dances Staged by: Val Raset
Art Direction: Hal Pereira and Eugene Allen
Set Decoration: Sam Comer and Grace Gregory
Costumes: Edith Head
Hair Style Supervision: Nellie Manley
Makeup Supervision: Wally Westmore
Sound Recording by: John Wilkinson, Winston Leverett
Director of Photography: Harold Lipstein
Special Photographic Effectrs: John P. Fulton
Process Photography: Farciot Edouart
Filmed in Technicolor
Color Coordinator: Hoyningen-Huene
Technicolor Color Consultant: Richard Mueller
Edited by: Howard Smith

Cast: Sophia Loren [Angela Rossini], Anthony Quinn [Tom Healy], Margaret O'Brien [Della Southby], Steve Forrest [Clint Mabry], Eileen Heckart [Mrs. Lorna Hathaway], Ramon Novarro [De Leon], Edmund Lowe [Manfred "Doc" Montague], George Mathews [Sam Pierce], Edward Binns [Sheriff Ed McClain], Warren Wade [Hodges, a Creditor], Frank Silvera [Santis, a Miner], Robert Palmer [McAllister], Taggart Casey [Gunslinger #1], Leo V. Matranga [Gunslinger #2], Cal Bolder [Goober, De Leon's Man], Howard McNear [Dead Gunmen Photographer], David Armstrong [Achilles], Cathy Cox [Juno], Bryn Davis [Venus], Alfred Tonkel [Calchas], Geraldine Wall [Mrs. Haddock, a Madam], Amanda Randolph [Edna, Mrs. Haddock's Maid], Harry Wilson [Man Buying Picture of Angela], Bobby Darin [Servant], Jeffrey Sayre, Harry Cheshire [Poker Players], Eddie Little Sky, Rodd Redwing, Iron Eyes Cody, Chief Yowlachie [Indians]

Musical Program: [0:15] Helen of Troy: A Comic Opera: Beware (sung by Sophia Loren); "Angela" (used instrumentally); "Love, Lovely Love" (not used)

Hello, Dolly!
Chenault Productions / 20th Century-Fox, 1969, Color, 148 minutes, ***½
Released December, 1969

Lavish screen adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical stars Barbra Streisand as the turn-of-the-century New York matchmaker who falls for client Walter Matthau. Supporting turns by Michael Crawford and Louis Armstrong, and a score that includes "Before the Parade Passes By," "Just Leave Everything to Me" and the title song, add to the fun.

Setting: New York City, 1890

Written for the Screen and Produced by: Ernest Lehman
Associate Producer: Roger Edens
Directed by: Gene Kelly
Assistant Director: Paul Helmick
Screenplay: Ernest Lehman
Based on the Stage Play "Hello, Dolly!"
Produced on the New York Stage by Davis Merrick
Book of Stage Play by Michael Stewart
Based on The Matchmaker by Thornton Wilder
Music and Lyrics of Stage Play by Jerry Herman
Directed and Choreographed by Gower Champion
Music and Lyrics by: Jerry Herman
Music Director: Lennie Hayton and Lionel Newman
Music Scored and Conducted by: Lennie Hayton and Lionel Newman
Orchestrations: Philip J. Lang, Lennie Hayton, Herbert Spencer, Alexander Courage, Don Costa, Warren Barker, Frank Comstock, Joseph Lipman
Dance Arrangements: Marvin Laird
Choral Arrangements: Jack Latimer
Dances and Musical Numbers Staged by: Michael Kidd
Production Designed by: John De Cuir
Art Directors: Jack Martin Smith, Herman Blumenthal
Set Decorations: Walter M. Scott, George Hopkins, Raphael Bretton
Costumes Designed by: Irene Sharaff
Makeup Supervision: Dan Striepeke
Hairstyling by: Edith Lindon
Sound by: Murray Spivack, Vinton Vernon, Jack Solomon, Douglas Williams
Director of Photography: Harry Stradling
Special Photographic Effects: L. B. Abbott, Art Cruickshank
Produced in Todd-AO, Color by De Luxe
Film Editor: William Reynolds

Awards: Academy Awards for Best Score - Musical (Lennie Hayton and Lionel Newman), Best Art Direction/Set Decoration and Best Sound; Academy Award nominations for Best Picture, Best Cinematography (Harry Stadling), Best Film Editing and Best Costume Design (Irene Sharaff)

Cast: Barbra Streisand [Dolly Levi], Walter Matthau [Horace Vandergelder], Michael Crawford [Cornelius Hackl], Marianne McAndrew [Irene Molloy], Danny Lockin [Barnaby Tucker], E. J. Peaker [Minnie Fay], Joyce Ames [Ermengarde], Tommy Tune [Ambrose Kemper], Judy Knaiz [Gussie Granger], David Hurst [Rudolph Reisenweber], Fritz Feld [Rudolph's assistant], Richard Collier [Vandergelder's Barber], J. Pat O'Malley [Policeman in Park], Louis Armstrong [Orchestra Leader]

Musical Program: [0:01] Just Leave Everything to Me (sung by Barbra Streisand and Chorus); [0:15] It Takes a Woman (sung by Walter Matthau, Michael Crawford, Danny Lockin and Ensemble); [0:23] It Takes a Woman (sung by Barbra Streisand); [0:31] Put on Your Sunday Clothes (sung by Michael Crawford, sung and danced by Barbra Streisand and Chorus); [0:39] Ribbons Down My Back (sung by Marianne McAndrew); [0:57] Dancing (sung and danced by Barbra Streisand, Michael Crawford, Danny Lockin, Marianne McAdndrew, E. J. Peaker and Ensemble and Chorus); [1:05] Before the Parade Passes By (sung by Barbra Streisand, taken up by marching band in parade, sung by Chorus); [1:16] Intermission
[1:21] Elegance (sung and danced by Michael Crawford, Danny Lockin, Marianne McAndrew and E. J. Peaker); [1:26] Love Is Only Love (sung by Barbra Streisand); [1:47] Hello, Dolly! (sung and danced by Barbra Streisand and Chorus; sung by Armstrong Louis and Barbra Streisand); [2:07] It Only Takes a Moment (sung by Michael Crawford, Marianne McAndrew and Chorus); [2:12] So Long, Dearie (sung by Barbra Streisand); [2:22] Hello, Dolly! (sung and danced by Walter Matthau and Barbra Streisand); [2:23] Finale (reprisals of several songs sung and danced by the Company); [2:26] Exit Music

Hello, Frisco, Hello
20th Century-Fox, 1943, Color, 99 minutes, ***½
Released March, 1943

Lively and colorful musical set on the sprawling Barbary Coast, where entrepreneur John Payne opens a saloon and becomes romantically involved with socialite Lynn Bari, pushing main singing attraction Alice Faye out of his life. Misfortune and marital problems soon follow Payne around, while Faye finds fame in Europe. Can they reunite?

One of Alice Faye's best films features the Academy Award winning, "You'll Never Know," in a wonderful song score that also includes, "Hello, Frisco, Hello," the rowdy "Ragtime Cowboy Joe," and the bright and cheerful roller-skating production number "It's Tulip Time in Holland." Check out Alice's gorgeous costumes!

The Alice Faye Collection, Vol. 2 includes this film; Rose of Washington Square; Hollywood Cavalcade; The Great American Broadcast; and Four Jills in a Jeep

Produced by: Milton Sperling
Directed by: Bruce Humberstone
Screen Play by: Robert Ellis and Helen Logan and Richard Macaulay
Musical Direction: Charles Henderson, Emil Newman
Lyrics and Music: "You'll Never Know" by Mack Gordon and Harry Warren
Dances Staged by: Val Raset
Art Direction: James Basevi, Boris Leven
Set Decorations: Thomas Little, Paul S. Fox
Costumes Designed by: Helen Rose
Makeup Artist: Guy Pearce
Supervised by: Fanchon
Sound by: Joseph E. Aiken, Roger Heman
Directors of Photography: Charles Clarke, Allen Davey
Special Photographic Effects: Fred Sersen
Photographed in Technicolor
Technicolor Director: Natalie Kalmus
Associate: Henri Jaffa
Film Editor: Barbara McLean

Awards: Won Best Song Academy Award for 1943 ("You'll Never Know"); Academy Award nomination for Best Color Cinematography (Charles G. Clarke and Allen Davey)

Cast: Alice Faye [Trudy Evans], John Payne [Johnny Cornell], Jack Oakie [Dan Daley], Lynn Bari [Bernice Croft], Laird Cregar [Sam Weaver], June Havoc [Beulah Clancy], Ward Bond [Sharkey], Aubrey Mather [Cochren], John Archer [Ned Clark], George Barbier [Colonel Weatherby], Esther Dale [Aunt Harriet], Frank Darien [Missionary], Harry Hayden [Burkham], Mary Field [Cockney Maid], Fortunio Bonanova, Gino Corrado, Adia Kuznetzoff [Opera Singers], James Sills, Marie Brown [Roller Skating Specialty], Jackie Averill, Jimmie Clemens, Jr. [Child Dancers]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (with vocals of "Hello, Frisco, Hello" and "San Franciso") (played by Orchestra with some vocals by Chorus behind titles); [0:01] Montage with medley: Yip I Addy I Ay! / San Francisco Bay / A Bird in a Glided Cage / Hello Ma Baby (sung by Chorus behind montage); [0:03] By the Watermelon Vine (Lindy Lou) (sung and danced by John Payne, Alice Faye, Jack Oakie and June Havoc); [0:05] Hello, Frisco, Hello (sung by John Payne, Jack Oakie, June Havoc, Alice Faye) / You'll Never Know (sung by Alice Faye); [0:11] Yield Not to Temptation (sung and played by the "O'Farrell Street Mission" Band); [0:12] Ragtime Cowboy Joe (sung by Alice Faye, June Havoc and Jack Oakie); [0:15] Sweet Cider Time (When You Were Mine) (sung by Alice Faye, joined by audience); [0:16] San Francisco (played on piano behind montage, and used here and there in background score); [0:17] Grizzly Bear ("ragged" instrumental danced by Chorus, then sung and danced by Jack Oakie, June Havoc, Alice Faye and Chorus); [0:23] Vienna Life (Strauss Waltz) (danced by party guests at the Croft home); [0:25] Emperor Waltz (danced by party guests at the Croft home); [0:28] Hello Ma Baby (excerpt danced by Chorus Girls, music fades to background in following scene); [0:34] It's Tulip Time in Holland (Two Lips Are Calling Me) (and some strains of other tunes) (production number skated and sung by Chorus; specialty by James Sills and Marie Brown); [0:38] Why Do They Always Pick on Me? (sung by Alice Faye); [0:49] Bedelia / (sung by Alice Faye and Mens Chorus) / Has Anybody Here Seen Kelly? (sung and danced by Alice Faye, Jack Oakie and Mens Chorus); [1:04] By the Light of the Silvery Moon (with special lyrics, sung by Alice Faye); [1:17] By the Watermelon Vine (Lindy Lou) (sung by Jack Oakie and June Havoc); [1:18] Gee, But It's Great to Meet a Friend from Your Home Town (sung by Jack Oakie and June Havoc); [1:23] Hello Ma Baby (sung by auditioner); [1:26] You'll Never Know (sung by Alice Faye); [1:30] I've Got a Gal in Every Port / Sailor's Hornpipe (sung by Jack Oakie, June Havoc and Chorus); [1:36] Finale: Hello, Frisco, Hello / You'll Never Know (sung by Alice Faye and John Payne)
This film is wall-to-wall music. It would be very difficult to identify some of the short excerpts. The above list is mostly major numbers and medleys as best as I can manage.

Hellzapoppin'
Mayfair / Universal, 1941, B/W, 84 minutes, **½
Released December, 1941

Playing incompetent nitwits, Ole and Chic hire a producer to make a musical show at a fancy estate. What follows are non-stop zany gags and jokes when the producer takes on extracurricular activities by falling in love with the estate's wealthy girl. However, he's encumbered by the girl's fiance. A wild love triangle ensues, complicated by Chic's sister because a penniless Russian aristocrat mistakes her for the wealthy girl. Based on the hit Broadway play.  [from back of CD case]

Slapstick madness from one end to the other! Slapstick fans should love it, but musically it's nothing special except for the Congaroo number played by Slim and Slam (and others) and danced by the Congaroo Dancers. This number alone is worth the price of admission!

Associate Producers: Glenn Tryon, Alex Gottlieb
Direced by: H. C. Potter
Assistant Director: Joseph A. McDonough
Screenplay: Nat Perrin, Warren Wilson
Based on an original story by Nat Perrin
Suggested by the stage play "Olsen & Johnson's Hellzapoppin"
Musical Director: Charles Previn
Words and Music by: Don Raye & Gene De Paul
"Waiting for the Robert E. Lee" Words and Music by Gilbert & Muir
Musical Numbers Staged by: Nick Castle & Edward Prinz
Music Supervisor: Ted Cain
Musical Score: Frank Skinner
Art Director: Jack Otterson
Associate: Martin Obzina
Set Decorations: R. A. Gausman
Gowns: Vera West
Sound Director: Bernard B. Brown
Technician: William Fox
Director of Photography: Woody Bredell
Special Photographic Effects: John P. Fulton
Film Editor: Milton Carruth

Cast: Ole Olsen [Ole], Chic Johnson [Chic], Martha Raye [Betty], Hugh Herbert [Quimby], Jane Frazee [Kitty Rand], Robert Paige [Jeff], Mischa Auer [Pepi], Richard Lane [Director], Lewis Howard [Woody], Clarence Kolb [Mr. Rand], Nella Walker [Mrs. Rand], Shemp Howard [Louis], Elisha Cook, Jr. [Selby], Frank Darien [Messenger], Katherine Johnson [Lena], Gus Schilling [Orchestra Leader], The Six Hits [Themselves], Slim and Slam [Specialty], The Congaroo Dancers (aka Whitey's Lindy Hoppers) [Lindy Hop dance specialty], Olive Hatch Water Ballet [Specialty], Additional Cast: Andrew Tombes [Max Kane], Jack "Tiny" Lipson [Junior], Susan Miller [Junior's Mother], Bert Roach [Robert T. MacChesney], Jody Gilbert [Louis' Girlfriend], Rex Stewart [Trumpet player in Congaroo number], C. C. Johnson [Bongo player in Congaroo number], Don Brodie [Theatre Manager], Sig Arno [Cellist], Dave Willock [Trombonist], Frank Austin [Chauffeur], George Chandler [Movie Cameraman], Billy Curtis [Bodyguard], Jimmie Lucas, Charlie Hall [Taxi Drivers], Harry Monty [Midget Taxi Driver], Joseph North, Bob Rose [Butlers], George Davis [Russian Butler], Gil Perkins [Butler in Pool], Terry Walker [Maid], Angelo Rossitto [Dwarf Devil], Eddie Acuff [Drafted Devil], Billy Wayne [Photographer], Hal K. Dawson [Photographer at Pool], Ben Hall [Goofy Man], Samuel S. Hinds [Showboat Captain], George Humbert [Chef], Fred Sanborn [Man playing tic-tac-toe on horse], Ellinor Vanderveer [Audience Extra], Dale Van Sickel [Frankenstein Monster], Lyle Moraine [Young Man], Bess Flowers [Audience Extra], Kathryn Adams [Girl], Dean Collins [Betty's Jitterbug Dance Partner]

Musical Program: [0:01] Hellzapoppin' (production number sung by Chrous, decaying into comical madness); [0:20] What Kind of Love Is This? (sung by Martha Raye); [0:27] Heaven for Two (sung by Robert Paige, joined by Jane Frazee); [0:34] Watch the Birdie (sung by Martha Raye and Chorus); [0:37] You Were There (sung by Jane Frazee while dancing with Robert Paige); [0:44] You Were There (sung by Chorus joined by Jane Frazee during water ballet); [0:50] Congaroo (played by Slim and Slam and others, danced by The Cangaroo Dancers); [1:01] Comedy ballet number in "Broadway Bound"; [1:07] Puttin' on the Dog (Dog dance number); [1:10] Waiting for the Robert E. Lee (sung by Jane Frazee, Martha Raye and Chorus); [1:16] Conga Beso (sung and danced by Jane Frazee, Martha Raye and Chorus); [1:22] Hellzapoppin' (sung by Chrous behind end credits)

Help!
Subafilms / Walter Shenson / UA, 1965, Color, 92 minutes
Released July, 1965 (UK)
Released August, 1965 (USA)

This sequel to the hit A Hard Day's Night finds the Beatles quietly spoofing James Bond. An Eastern religious cult has determined that the new ring on Ringo's finger is the key element in a human sacrifice and they will stop at nothing to obtain it. And a mad scientist (Victor Spinetti) thinks that if he had the ring then he could rule the world. So, everybody's out to get Ringo. Loaded with the Beatles and their music.

Producer: Walter Shenson
Director: Richard Lester
Screenplay: Marc Behm and Charles Wood
Music Director: Ken Thorne
Musical Score: Ken Thorne
Song Score: John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison
Art Direction: Ray Simm
Costume Design: Dinah Greet, Julie Harris, Arthur Newman
Special Effects: Cliff Richardson, Roy Whybrow
Cinematography: David Watkin
Film Editing: John Victor-Smith

Cast: John Lennon [John], Paul McCartney [Paul], Ringo Starr [Ringo], George Harrison [George], Leo McKern [Clang], Eleanor Bron [Ahme], Warren Mitchell [Abdul], Victor Spinetti [Foot], Roy Kinnear [Algernon], John Bluthal [Bhuta], Bruce Lacey [Lawn Mower], Patrick Cargill [Superintendent], Andreas Malandrinos [Austrian Waiter], Golda Casimir [Cleaner in Temple], Alfie Bass [Doorman], Durra [Belly Dancer], Ronnie Brody, Bob Godfrey, Louis Mansi, Rupert Evans [Priests / Thugs], Deborah du'Lacey, Gai Wright, Zorenah Osborne, Eve Eden, Zienia Merton, Marie-Lise [High Priestesses]

Musical Program: Help! (The Beatles); You're Gonna Lose That Girl (The Beatles); You've Got to Hide Your Love Away (The Beatles); Ticket to Ride (The Beatles); I Need You (The Beatles); She's a Woman (The Beatles); The Night Before (The Beatles); Another Girl (The Beatles)

Her Majesty, Love
Warner Bros. / First National, 1931, B/W, 75 minutes, **
Released December, 1931

Marilyn Miller was one of the brightest stars on Broadway, but nearly a total failure on screen. Three attempts were made to bring her charm to the screen, but it just didn't work. This film is the worst of the three, and one has to wonder what Warner / First National had in mind. Marilyn was a dancer, but doesn't really do her stuff in this film - it's just not really an appropriate vehicle. Still, it's worth seeing to catch a glimpse of the great Marilyn Miller and an early talkie with W. C. Fields demonstrating his juggling (something rarely seen on-screen).

Producer: none credited
Director: William Dieterle
Screenplay: Robert Lord, Arthur Caesar, Henry Blanke and Joseph Jackson
  (based on the play by Rudolf Bernauer and R. Oesterreicher)
Song Score: Al Dubin and Walter Jurmann
Art Direction: Jack Okey
Costume Design: Earl Luick
Cinematography: Robert Kurrle
Film Editing: Ralph Dawson

Cast: Marilyn Miller [Lia Toerrek], Ben Lyon [Fred von Wellingen], W. C. Fields [Lia's Father], Leon Errol [Baron von Schwarzdorf], Ford Sterling [Otmar], Chester Conklin [Emil], Harry Stubbs [Hanneman], Clarence Wilson [Cornelius], Harry Holman [Reisenfeld], Ruth Hall [Factory Secretary], Mae Madison [Fred's Sister, Elli], Maude Eburne [Aunt Harriette], Virginia Sale [Laura Reisenfeld], William Irving [The "Third" Man], Donald Novis [Cabaret Singer]

Musical Program: [0:00] You're Baby-Minded Now (Marilyn Miller and Ensemble); [0:04] Because of You (Donald Novis); [0:06] Never Be Blue (Donald Novis and Ensemle); [0:18] Though You're Not the First One (sung by Donald Novis, danced by Marilyn Miller and Ben Lyon); [0:37] Because of You (Marilyn Miller); [1:11] You're Baby-Minded Now (Donald Novis); [1:13] You Have All My Heart (sung by Donald Novis, danced by Marilyn Miller and Ben Lyon)

Here Come the Girls
Hope Enterprises / Paramount, 1953, Color, 78 minutes, ***
(video tape and sleeve incorrectly labeled as "100 minutes")
Released October, 1953

A mysterious killer known as "Jack the Slasher" is stalking the members of a musical revue, and his next victim could wind up being "boy" singer Bob Hope in this lively comedy laced with songs. Tony Martin, Arlene Dahl, Rosemary Clooney, William Demarest co-star.

"In the year 1900, there lived a chorus boy named Stanley Snodgrass, who worked his way up from the gutter... only to discover that he had a round trip ticket."

Produced by: Paul Jones
Directed by: Claude Binyon
Assistant Director: Edward Salven
Screenplay by: Edmund Hartmann and Hal Kanter
Story by: Edmund Hartmann
Music Direction: Lyn Murray
Special Orchestral Arrangements: Van Cleave
Songs by: Jay Livingston and Ray Evans
Dances Created and Staged by: Nick Castle
Art Direction: Hal Pereira and Roland Anderson
Set Decoration: Sam Comer and Grace Gregory
Costumes: Edith Head
Makeup Supervision: Wally Westmore
Sound Recording by: Hugo Grenzbach and John Cope
Director of Photography: Lionel Lindon
Special Photographic Effects: Gordon Jennings and Paul Lerpae
Color by Technicolor
Technicolor Color Consultant: Richard Mueller
Edited by: Arthur Schmidt

Cast: Bob Hope [Stanley Snodgrass], Tony Martin [Allen Trent], Arlene Dahl [Irene Bailey], Rosemary Clooney [Daisy Crockett], Millard Mitchell [Albert Snodgrass], William Demarest [Dennis Logan], Fred Clark [Harry Fraser], Robert Strauss [Jack the Slasher], Zamah Cunningham [Mrs. Snodgrass], Frank Orth [Mr. Hungerford], The Four Stepbrothers [Dance Specialty], Additional Cast: Johnny Downs [Bob], Virginia Leith, Sheree North, Phyllis Coates [Chorus Girls], Dale Van Sickel [Policeman], Lois Hall [Belle], Nancy Kulp [Washwoman], Inesita [Spanish Dancer]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:01] Girls (production number sung and danced by Cast and Chorus with Bob Hope as a Chorus Boy); [0:10] Ya Got Class (sung and danced by Rosemary Clooney and Bob Hope); [0:22] It's Torment (danced by Inesita, sung and danced by Bob Hope, Arlene Dahl and Girls Chorus); [0:31] When You Love Someone (sung by Rosemary Clooney); [0:54] Ali Baba (Be My Baby) (sung by Rosemary Clooney, danced by Clooney and Chorus Girls); [0:59] Ali Baba (Be My Baby) (instrumental arrangement danced by Bob Hope and The Four Step Brothers); [1:01] Heavenly Days (sung by Tony Martin); [1:09] See the Circus (sung by Arlene Dahl and Chorus Girls); [1:17] Never So Beautiful (short excerpt sung by Tony Martin)

Here Come the WAVES
(aka Here Come the Waves)
Paramount, 1944, B/W, 99 minutes, ***
Released December, 1944

It's TWO - TWO Betty Huttons for the price of one! Very cute movie! Betty Hutton plays a dual role in this film about twin sisters who join the WAVES and get caught up in a love tangle with singer Johnny Cabot (Bing Crosby). Bing spoofs Frank Sinatra with Frank's big hit, "That Old Black Magic," complete with screaming and fainting bobby-soxers. The film features the Academy Award nominated "Ac-cent-tchu-ate the Positive."

For those who may not know... the WAVES were the womens' branch of the Navy. The acronym stands for Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service. The WAVES were established as a branch of the U.S. Naval Reserve in 1942 and became part of the regular Navy in 1948. During WWII, the WAVES were instrumental in the war, replacing many men in non-combat positions, thereby allowing more men to go to the battle front.

This film is included in the DVD Box Set (shown right), along with Waikiki Wedding, Double or Nothing, East Side of Heaven, and If I Had My Way

Produced and Directed by: Mark Sandrich
Original Screen Play by: Allan Scott, Ken Englund and Zion Myers
Musical Score: Robert Emmett Dolan
Songs: Lyrics by Johnny Mercer, Music by Harold Arlen
Music Direction: Robert Emmett Dolan
Vocal Arrangements: Joseph J. Lilley
Music Associate: Troy Sanders
Ensembles Staged by: Danny Dare
Art Direction: Hans Dreier, Roland Anderson
Set Decoration: Ray Moyer
Non-Military Costumes: Edith Head
Makeup Supervision: Wally Westmore
Sound Recording: Hugo Grenzbach, John Cope
Director of Photography: Charles Lang. Jr.
Special Photographic Effects: Gordon Jennings, Paul Lerpae
Process Photography: Farciot Edouart
Edited by: Ellsworth Hoagland

Awards: Nominated for Best Song Academy Award ("Accentuate the Positive")

Cast: Bing Crosby [Johnny Cabot], Betty Hutton [dual role as Susan and twin Rosemary Allison], Sonny Tufts [Windy], Ann Doran [Ruth], Gwen Crawford [Tex], Noel Neill [Dorothy], Catherine Craig [Lieutenant Townsend], Marjorie Henshaw [Isabel], Additional Cast: Harry Barris [Bandleader], Mae Clarke [Ensign Kirk], Minor Watson [Officer], Oscar O'Shea [Commodore], Mona Freeman [First Fainting Girl], Carlotta Jelm [Second Fainting Girl], Jack Norton [Waiter], William Haade, Jimmie Dundee [Chief Petty Officers], Lillian Bronson [Cabot Fan], Jean Willes [Girl], Yvonne De Carlo [Girl], J. Alex Havier [Waiter], James Flavin [Shore Patrol], Weldon Heyburn [Civilian], Kit Guard [Yellow Cab Driver], Kay Linaker [First Pretty Girl], Terry Adams [Second Pretty Girl], Babe London [Girl Window Washer], Greta Granstedt [WAVE Control Tower Operator], George Turner [Recruit], Cyril Ring [Lieutenant Colonel], Charles D. Brown [Captain Johnson], William Forrest [Lieutenant Commander], Don Kramer, Eddie Kover, Ruth Miles [Miles and Kover Trio], Dorothy Jarnac, Joel Friend, Roberta Jonay, Guy Zanette [Specialty Dancers]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:01] Join the Navy (sung by Girls Chorus); [0:03] Join the Navy (sung by "The Allison Twins" [Betty Hutton]); [0:07] Anchors Aweigh (several excerpts played by Orchestra, marched by WAVES); [0:09] Moonlight Becomes You (sung by Bing Crosby in background); [0:12] That Old Black Magic (production number sung by Bing Crosby, danced by Chorus Girls); [0:19] unidentified instrumental number (danced by Chorus in nightclub); [0:22] That Old Black Magic (played by Orchestra, hummed by Bing Crosby while dancing with Betty Hutton); [0:37] Let's Take the Long Way Home (sung by Bing Crosby); [0:52] Ac-cent-tchua-te the Positive (sung and danced by Bing Crosby, Sonny Tufts and Chorus); [1:17] Sketch: "If WAVES Acted Like Sailors" performed by Betty Hutton with Bing Crosby, Sonny Tufts and Noel Neill; includes There's a Fellow Waiting in Poughkeepsie (sung by Betty Hutton, joined later by Bing Crosby and Sonny Tufts); [1:27] I Promise You (sung by Bing Crosby and Betty Hutton); [1:32] Here Come the WAVES (sung and marched by WAVES)

Here Comes the Groom
(aka "Frank Capra's Here Comes the Groom")
Paramount, 1951, B/W, 113 minutes, ****
Released September, 1951

With the legendary Frank Capra (It's a Wonderful Life) in the director's seat, the inimitable Bing Crosby stars as an overseas reporter with a song in his heart... and room left over for two war orphans. They are his to adopt, if he can find a bride in just five days! His former fiancée (Jane Wyman) is the perfect candidate, but she's destined to marry millionaire Franchot Tone. Or is she? Among the highlights of this sparkling musical romp is Der Bingle's crooning of the Oscar-winning song, "In the Cool, Cool, Cool of the Evening."  [from back of DVD case]

One of my favorite Bing movies! By the time Bing gets back from war-torn Europe, Jane is tired of waiting for him and showing up at the dock only to find no Bing onboard five times, so she has decided to marry her multi-millionaire boss Franchot. Bing brings back two cute orphan kids, but the Immigration Service tells him they must return to France unless Bing is married within five days. Childhood sweetheart Jane is the obvious choice, but she's gone and gotten herself engaged to Tone. After several underhanded attempts to break up the engagement, Bing and Franchot have a little chat and openly declare war to see who will end up at the altar on Saturday! Wonderful treachery is about to begin! Really fun film with loads of laughs! [JJ]

Produced and Directed by: Frank Capra
Associate Producer: Irving Asher
Assistant Director: Arthur S. Black
Screenplay: Virginia Van Upp, Liam O'Brien, Myles Connolly
Story by: Robert Riskin and Liam O'Brien
New Songs by: Jay Livingston and Ray Evans
"In the Cool, Cool, Cool of the Evening" by Johnny Mercer and Hoagy Carmichael
Music Direction: Joseph J. Lilley
Special Orchestral Arrangements: Van Cleave
Dance Direction: Charles O'Curran
Art Direction: Hal Pereira and Earl Hedrick
Set Decoration: Emile Kuri
Costumes: Edith Head
Makeup Supervision: Wally Westmore
Sound Recording by: Harry Mills and John Cope
Director of Photography: George Barnes
Special Effects: Gordon Jennings and Paul Lerpae
Process Photography: Farciot Edouart
Edited by: Ellsworth Hoagland

Awards: Academy Award for Best Song ("In the Cool, Cool, Cool of the Evening"); Academy Award nomination for Best Motion Picture Story

Cast: Bing Crosby [Pete Garvey], Jane Wyman [Emmadel Jones], Alexis Smith [Winifred Stanley], Franchot Tone [Wilbur Stanley], James Barton [Pa Jones], Connie Gilchrist [Ma Jones], Robert Keith [George Degnan], Jacques Gencel [Bobby], Beverly Washburn [Suzi], Walter Catlett [McGonigle], Alan Reed [Mr. Godfrey], Minna Gombell [Mrs. Godfrey], Howard Freeman [Governor], Maidel Turner [Aunt Abby], H.B. Warner [Uncle Elihu], Nicholas Joy [Uncle Prentise], Ian Wolfe [Uncle Adam], Ellen Corby [Mrs. McGonigle], James Burke [Policeman], Irving Bacon [Baines], Ted Thorpe [Paul Pippitt], Art Baker [Radio Announcer], Anna Maria Alberghetti [Theresa], Laura Elliot [Maid], Christofer Appel [Marcel], Odette Myrtil [Gray Lady], Charles Halton [Cusick], Rev. Neal Dodd [Priest], Charles Lane [Burchard], Adeline De Walt Reynolds [Aunt Amy], Charles E. Evans [Mayor], Carl "Alfalfa" Switzer [Messenger], Walter McGrail [Newsreel Director], Howard Joslin [Newsreel Cameraman], Dorothy Lamour [Herself], Frank Fontaine [Himself], Louis Armstrong [Himself], Phil Harris [Himself], Cass Daley [Herself]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture ("In the Cool, Cool, Cool of the Evening" played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:07] Caro Nome (from the opera RIGOLETTO, sung by Anna Maria Alberghetti - wonderful!); [0:14] Your Own Little House (sung by Bing Crosby); [0:18] In the Cool, Cool, Cool of the Evening (sung by Bing Crosby and Jacques Gencel; reprised many times throughout the film); [0:29] Misto Christofo Columbo (sung by Bing Crosby, Dorothy Lamour, Louis Armstrong, Cass Daley, Phil Harris, Frank Fontaine and Chorus - great number!); [0:36] What Shall We Do with the Drunken Sailor (short excerpt sung by James Barton and friends); [0:51] In the Cool, Cool, Cool of the Evening (sung and danced by Bing Crosby and Jane Wyman); [1:32] In the Cool, Cool, Cool of the Evening (reprised by Alexis Smith); [1:43] Bonne Nuit (Good Night) (Bing Crosby)

Hers to Hold
Universal, 1943, B/W, 94 minutes, ***
Released July, 1943

Penny (Deanna Durbin) meets Bill (Joseph Cotten) at a Red Cross blood donation facility, and falls in love with him. He is a flyer in the Flying Tigers and is expecting orders to ship out anytime. Though Penny comes from a wealthy family, she takes a job in an aircraft plant to do her part - "You fly them, I'll build them." When Bill gets his orders, the pair has to say goodbye. In a last-minute panic, Penny tries to get her father to pull some strings to keep Bill out of the war, but she gets a little speech, instead, about Bill's decision and how the war is being fought to protect the very things that she has enjoyed with Bill. A War-time tale that was repeated in real life over and over during the war years. Part comedy, part tearjerker, it'a another film we can watch to see the affects World War II war had on real people.

Produced by: Felix Jackson
Associate Producer: Frank Shaw
Directed by: Frank Ryan
Assistant Director: Joseph A. McDonough
Screenplay by: Lewis R. Foster
Based on a Story by: John D. Klorer
Musical Director: Charles Previn
Music Score: Frank Skinner
Vocal Coach: Andres de Segurola
"Say a Prayer for the Boys Over There" Music by Jimmy McHugh, Lyrics by Herb Magidson
"Begin the Beguine" Music and Lyrics by Cole Porter
Art Direction: John B. Goodman, Richard H. Riedel
Set Decorations: R. A. Gausman, Ira S. Webb
Miss Durbin's Gowns by: Adrian
Gowns: Vera West
Sound Director: Bernard B. Brown
Technician: Robert Prichard
Director of Photography: Woody Bredell
Special Photography by: John P. Fulton
Film Editor: Ted Kent

Awards: Academy Award nomination for Best Song - "Say a Prayer for the Boys Over There"

Cast: Deanna Durbin [Penelope Craig], Joseph Cotten [Bill Morley], Charles Winninger [Judson Craig], Ludwig Stossel [Binns], Nella Walker [Dorothy Craig], Gus Schilling [Rosey Blake], Samuel S. Hinds [Doctor Crane], Evelyn Ankers [Flo], Fay Helm [Hannah Gordon], Iris Adrian [Arlene] Murray Alper [Foreman], Douglas Wood [Mr. Cartwright], Minna Phillips [Mrs. Cartwright], Nydia Westman [Nurse Willing], Irving Bacon [Doctor Bacon]

Music Program: [0:23] Seguidilla (from the opera CARMEN) (sung by Deanna Durbin at the Craig's party); [0:44] Begin the Beguine (sung by Deanna Durbin and Chorus at the aircraft plant); [1:02] Say a Prayer for the Boys Over There (sung by Deanna Durbin at the aircraft plant); [1:12] Deep Purple (played by orchestra in background at night club); [1:15] Kashmiri Song (Pale Hands I Loved) (sung by Deanna Durbin in her bedroom); [1:31] Say a Prayer for the Boys Over There (reprised by Deanna Durbin and Chorus at the aircraft plant); Additional instrumental numbers played in various scenes that I have yet to identify.

High Society
MGM, 1956, Color, 107 minutes, ***½
Released July, 1956

Grace Kelly's last film was this lively musical remake of "The Philadelphia Story," with Grace (appropriately) as the Main Line gal who must choose between Bing Crosby and John Lund. Frank Sinatra, Celeste Holm and Louis Armstrong co-star; Cole Porter score includes "True Love," "Did You Evah?" and "You're Sensational."

The Cole Porter DVD Box Set (shown right) includes this film, Kiss Me Kate, Les Girls, Broadway Melody of 1940 and Silk Stockings.

Producer: Sol C. Siegel
Director: Charles Walters
Screenplay: John Patrick
  (based on the stage play "The Philadelphia Story" by Philip Barry)
Music Director: Johnny Green
Musical Score: Saul Chaplin and Johnny Green
Song Score: Cole Porter
Choreography: Charles Walters
Art Direction: Cedric Gibbons, Hans Peters
Set Decoration: Edwin B. Willis, Richard Pefferle
Costume Design: Helen Rose
Special Effects: A. Arnold Gillespie
Cinematography: Paul Vogel
Film Editing: Ralph E. Winters

Awards: Academy Award nominations for Best Score (Musical) and Best Song ("True Love")

Cast: Bing Crosby [C. K. Dexter-Haven], Grace Kelly [Tracy Lord], Frank Sinatra [Mike Connor], Celeste Holm [Liz Imbrie], John Lund [George Kittredge], Louis Calhern [Uncle Willie], Sidney Blackmer [Seth Lord], Louis Armstrong [Himself], Margalo Gillmore [Mrs. Seth Lord], Lydia Reed [Caroline Lord], Gordon Richards [Dexter Haven's Butler], Richard Garrick [Lord's Butler], Richard Keene [Mac], Ruth Lee [Matron], Helen Spring [Matron], Paul Keast [Editor], Reginald Simpson [Uncle Willie's Butler], Hugh Boswell [Parson]

Musical Program: [0:02] High Society Calypso (Louis Armstrong and His Band); [0:14] Little One (Bing Crosby with Louis Armstrong and His Band, reprised in French by Lydia Reed); [0:35] Who Wants to be a Millionaire (Frank Sinatra and Celeste Holm); [0:41] True Love (Bing Crosy and Grace Kelly); [0:54] You're Sensational (Frank Sinatra); [0:57] I Love You Samantha (Bing Crosby with Louis Armstrong and His Band); [1:04] Now You Has Jazz (Bing Crosby with Louis Armstrong and His Band); [1:13] Well, Did You Evah (Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra); [1:21] Mind If I Make Love to You (Frank Sinatra)

From uppercrust to bread crusts! When wealthy Mr. Drake goes broke, the servants hatch a plan to restore his fortune and save their jobs: have a lovely maid pose as Drake's debutante daughter, hoping she'll find a rich beau. Soon a suitor arrives. "Good Morning," he says. "My name is Frank Sinatra."

Making his acting debut (he was a vocalist in earlier films) in this merry musical comedy, Sinatra plays the boy next door and (naturally) knows his way around a song, taking on five here, soloing on "The Music Stopped," "A Lovely Way to Spend an Evening" and "I Couldn't Sleep a Wink Last Night." Sinatra may be the enduring main attraction, but he's not the only star on view: Victor Borge, Leon Errol, Barbara Hale, Jack Haley, Michele Morgan, Mel Torme, Mary Wickes and Dooley Wilson are also on hand. Encore!  [from back of DVD case]

An unusual kind of storyline, bright and witty dialogue, funny, great cast, good music... The musical numbers are brilliantly staged. This is a definite must-see... Lots of fun!

This film is included in the DVD box set Frank Sinatra: The Early Years (shown right), along with Double Dynamite, Step Lively, It Happened in Brooklyn, and The Kissing Bandit

Produced and Directed by: Tim Whelan
Associate Producer: George Arthur
Assistant Director: Clem Beauchamp
Screen Play by: Jay Dratler and Ralph Spence
Additional Dialogue by: William Bowers and Howard Harris
Based upon the Musical Play "Higher and Higher" Nook by Gladys Hurlbut and Joshua Logan, Produced by Dwight Deere Wiman, Music and Lyrics of Song "Disgustingly Rich" by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart
Songs: Music by Jimmy McHugh, Lyrics by Harold Adamson
Musical Director: C. Bakaleinikoff
Musical Score: Roy Webb
Vocal Director: Ken Darby
Musical Numbers Staged by: Ernst Matray
Orchestra Arrangements: Axel Stordahl, Gene Rose
Art Directors: Albert S. D'Agostino, Jack Okey
Set Decorations: Darrell Silvera, Claude Carpenter
Gowns by: Edward Stevenson
Recorded by: Jean L. Speak
Rerecorded by: James G. Stewart
Director of Photography: Robert de Grasse
Edited by: Gene Milford

Awards: Academy Award nominations for Best Score - Musical (C. Bakaleinikoff) and Best Song ("I Couldn't Sleep a Wink Last Night")

Cast: Michele Morgan [Millie Pico], Jack Haley [Mike O'Brien], Frank Sinatra [Himself], Leon Errol [Cyrus Drake], Marcy McGuire [Mickey], Victor Borge [Sir Victor Fitzroy Victor, K.B., O.B.E.], Mary Wickes [Sandy], Elizabeth Risdon [Mrs. Georgia Keating], Barbara Hale [Miss Catherine Keating], Mel Tormé [Marty], Paul and Grace Hartman [Byngham and Hilda], Dooley Wilson [Oscar], Ivy Scott [Miss Whiffin], Additional Cast: Rex Evans [Mr. Green], Stanley Logan [Hotel Manager], Ola Lorraine [Sarah], King Kennedy [Mr. Duval], Robert Anderson [Announcer], Elaine Riley, Shirley O'Hara, Dorothy Malone, Daun Kennedy [Bridesmaids], Rita Gould [Woman Assistant], Harry Holman [Banker], Warren Jackson [Contractor], Anne Goldthwaite [Debutante], Drake Thornton [Bellboy], Edward Fielding [Minister], Buddy Gorman [Page Boy], Martha Mears [singing voice of Michele Morgan], Louanne Hogan [singing voice of Barbara Hale]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture: "The Music Stopped" / "A Lovely Way to Spend an Evening" (played by Orchestra); [0:01] It's a Most Important Affair (sung by Mel Tormé and Marcy McGuire, Ivy Scott, Grace Hartman, Martha Mears dubbing for Michele Morgan, Dooley Wilson and Paul Hartman); [0:15] Today I'm a Debutante / Disgustingly Rich (sung by Mel Torme and Marcy McGuire, Jack Haley, Ivy Scott, Leon Errol, Grace Hartman, Mary Wickes, Paul Hartman, Michele Morgan dubbed by Martha Mears, Jack Haley and Mary Wickes); [0:26] I Couldn't Sleep a Wink Last Night (sung by Frank Sinatra with Dooley Wilson at the Piano onscreen); [0:37] The Music Stopped (sung by Frank Sinatra at the Butlers' Ball, dancing with Michele Morgan and Barbara Hale); [0:42] The Music Stopped (instrumental arrangement danced by Michele Morgan and Jack Haley with other guests at the ball); [0:48] I Saw You First (performed by Marcy McGuire and Frank Sinatra); [0:55] A Lovely Way to Spend an Evening (sung by Frank Sinatra at the Piano); [0:56] Pathétique (excerpt played by Victor Borge at the Piano in the house, the music continues as Frank Sinatra and Michele Morgan go walking to the park where Borge is accompanied by an orchestra at a concert in the park); [0:59] A Lovely Way to Spend an Evening (reprised by Frank Sinatra with concert in background); [1:03] You're on Your Own (sung by Dooley Wilson, Mel Torme, Marcy McGuire, Frank Sinatra, Louanne Hogan dubbing for Barbara Hale, Victor Borge, Martha Mears dubbing for Michele Morgan, Ivy Scott, Paul and Grace Hartman, Leon Errol, Mary Wickes and Chorus); [1:11] You're on Your Own (reprised by Frank Sinatra); [1:14] Minuet (played on music box in attic, danced by Jack Haley and Michele Morgan); [1:22] I Couldn't Sleep a Wink Last Night (sung by Frank Sinatra on radio); [1:23] Minuet in Boogie (sung by Mel Torme and Marcy McGuire, Mary Wickes, Leon Errol, Martha Mears dubbing for Michele Morgan, Ivy Scott and Chorus); [1:25] I Saw You First (reprised by Marcy McGuire and Louanne Hogan dubbing for Barbara Hale) / A Lovely Way to Spend an Evening (reprised by Frank Sinatra); [1:28] The Music Stopped (reprised by Frank Sinatra and Chorus, danced into the clouds by Frank Sinatra and Michele Morgan)

His Butler's Sister
Universal, 1943, B/W, 94 minutes, ***½
Released November, 1943

One of my favorite Deanna Durbin films. Deanna goes to New York to pursue a career as a singer, and moves in on her brother (Pat O'Brein), thinking that he has made it big in the big city. But, it turns out, he doesn't own the ritzy penthouse he lives in - he's the butler. His employer, though, is one of the most successful musical composers on Broadway (Franchot Tone). So, Deanna installs herself as the new maid, much to the chagrin of brother butler, and goes to work on getting an audition with the composer. Musical highlights include Deanna's Russian folk song medley and an aria from "Turandot."

Produced by: Felix Jackson
Associate Producer: Frank Shaw
Directed by: Frank Borzage
Assistant Director: Lew Borzage
Original Screenplay: Samuel Hoffenstein and Betty Reinhardt
Songs Direced by: Charles Previn
Music Score: H. J. Salter
Vocal Coach: Andres de Segurola
Song: "In the Spirit of the Moment"
   Music by Walter Jurman, Lyrics by Bernie Grossman
Art Direction: John B. Goodman, Martin Obzina
Set Decorations: R. A. Gausman, T. F. Offenbecker
Gowns: Vera West
Miss Durbin's Gowns by: Adrian
Sound Director: Bernard B. Brown
Technician: Joe Lapis
Director of Photography: Woody Bredell
Special Photography by: John P. Fulton
Film Editor: Ted Kent

Awards: Academy Award nomination for Best Sound Recording

Cast: Deanna Durbin [Ann Carter], Franchot Tone [Charles Gerard], Pat O'Brien [Martin Murphy], Evelyn Ankers [Liz Campbell], Akim Tamiroff [Popoff], Alan Mowbray [Jenkins], Walter Catlett [Kaleb], Elsa Janssen [Saverena], Frank Jenks [Emmett], Sig Arno [Moreno], Hans Conried [Reeves], Florence Bates [Lady Sloughberry], Andrew Tombes [Brophy], Iris Adrian and Robin Raymond [Sunshine Twins on train], Stephanie Bachelor [Pretty Girl], Franklin Pangborn [?], Roscoe Karns [Fields], Russell Hicks [Sanderson]

Musical Program: [0:07] Is It True What They Say About Dixie? (sung and danced by the Sunshine Twins on train); [0:10] In the Spirit of the Moment (sung by Deanna Durbin on train); [0:48] When You're Away (sung by Deanna Durbin "auditioning" for Franchot Tone); [1:05] Medley of Russian Folk Songs (Deanna Durbin and Chorus); [1:33] Nessun Dorma (from the 3rd Act of the opera TURANDOT, sung in English by by Deanna Durbin)

Hit the Deck
MGM, 1955, Color, 112 minutes, ***½
Released March, 1955

Another great musical from MGM! Just look at that cast list! Martin, Damone and Tamblyn are Navy buddies, and when they get shore leave they break into the home of producer Gene Raymond and beat him up. Tamblyn's sister (Jane Powell) is there, and Tamblyn is convinced that Raymond is going to put the moves on her. The shore patrol (one of which is Alan King), get a complaint from Raymond, and begin a search for the misbehaving seamen. In the meantime, Martin teams up with old flame Miller, Damone falls for Jane and Tamblyn goes for Debbie. Lots of fun and some great comic scenes and musical numbers. Musical highlights include the rousing "Hallelujah!", Jane's "Lucky Bird," Kay Armand's rendition of the Italian classic, "Ciribiribin," and Miller, Reynolds and Powell's "Why, Oh, Why?"

Classic Musicals from the Dream Factory Vol. 3 DVD Box Set (shown right) includes this film and Deep in My Heart, Kismet, Nancy Goes to Rio, Two Weeks with Love, Broadway Melody of 1936, Broadway Melody of 1938, Born to Dance and Lady Be Good.

Produced by: Joe Pasternak
Directed by: Roy Rowland
Assistant Director: George Rhein
Written by: Sonya Levien and William Ludwig
Based on the musical Play "Hit the Deck" by Herbert Fields; Presented on the stage by Vincent Youmans; From "Shore Leave" by Hubert Osborne
Music by: Vincent Youmans
Lyrics by: Leo Robin, Clifford Grey and Irving Caesar
Music Supervised and Conducted by: George Stoll
Orchestral Arrangements: Robert Van Eps and Will Beitel
Vocal Supervision: Jeff Alexander
Musical Numbers Staged by: Hermes Pan
Art Directors: Cedric Gibbons and Paul Groesse
Set Decorations: Edwin B. Willis, Fred MacLean
Costumes by: Helen Rose
Hair Styles by: Sydney Guilaroff
Make-Up Created by: William Tuttle
Recording Supervisor: Wesley C. Miller
Director of Photography: George Folsey
Filmed in CinemaScope and Eastman Color
Color Consultant: Alvord Eiseman
Film Editor: John McSweeney, Jr.

Cast: Jane Powell [Susan Smith], Tony Martin [Chief Boatswain's Mate William F. Clark], Debbie Reynolds [Carol Pace], Walter Pidgeon [Rear Adm. Daniel Xavier Smith], Vic Damone [Rico Ferrari], Gene Raymond [Wendell Craig], Ann Miller [Ginger], Russ Tamblyn [Danny Xavier Smith], J. Carrol Naish [Mr. Peroni], Kay Armen [Mrs. Ottavio Ferrari], Richard Anderson [Lt. Jackson], Jane Darwell [Jenny], Alan King, Henry Slate [Shore Patrol], The Jubalaires [Themselves], Additional Cast: Frank Reynolds [Dancer]

Musical Program: [0:00] Join the Navy (sung by Mens Chorus behind titles); [0:04] Hallelujah! (sung by Tony Martin, Vic Damone, Russ Tamblyn and The Jubalaires); [0:11] Keeping Myself for You (sung by Ann Miller and Tony Martin, danced by Ann Miller and Girls Chorus); [0:22] Lucky Bird (sung and danced by Jane Powell with mechanical penguin); [0:27] A Kiss or Two (sung and danced by Debbie Reynolds and Mens Chorus); [0:35] Why, Oh, Why? (sung by Tony Martin, Vic Damone and Russ Tamblyn); [0:40] Sometimes I'm Happy (sung by Jane Powell at Wendell Craig's apartment); [0:47] I Know That You Know (sung and danced by Vic Damone and Jane Powell); [0:53] Lady from the Bayou (sung by Ann Miller, danced by Ann Miller and Chorus); [0:59] Ciribiribin (Kay Armen, joined by Vic Damone, Jane Powell, Debbie Reynolds, Russ Tamblyn and Tony Martin); [1:07] Why, Oh, Why? (sung by Jane Powell, Debbie Reynolds and Ann Miller); [1:23] More Than You Know (sung by Tony Martin proposing to Ginger); [1:26] Fun house sequence (instrumental danced by Debbie Reynolds and Russ Tamblyn); [1:34] Join the Navy / Loo Loo (production number sung and danced by Debbie Reynolds and Mens Chorus with Tony Martin. Russ Tamblyn and Vic Damone trying to hide among the Chorus); [1:47] Finale: Hallelujah (production number sung by Tony Martin, Vic Damone, Russ Tamblyn, Kay Armen, Jane Powell, Debbie Reynolds and Chorus, tapped by Ann Miller and Mens Chorus)

Hold That Ghost
Universal, 1941, B/W, 85 minutes, ***
Released August, 1941

Chuck (Bud Abbott) and Ferdi (Lou Costello) inherit an old inn from bad guy Moose Madson (William B. Davidson) who has just had his will made out to bequeath his worldly belongings to whomever happens to be with him when he dies. Moose has always said that he keeps his money in his head, but nobody could ever figure out what that meant. When Chuck and Ferdi go to the inn to have a look-see at their new property, they take Norma (Evelyn Ankers) and Camille (Joan Davis) with them. The taxi driver leaves them stranded at the inn, and they have to spend the night. During the night, a ghost continually haunts Ferdi, though no one else ever sees it. But in the morning, the ghost makes himself known and Ferdi figures out where Moose's head is. Average Abbott and Costello fare with The Andrews Sisters onhand to deliver a couple songs.

Associate Producers: Burt Kelly, Glenn Tryon
Directed by: Arthur Lubin
Assistant Director: Gilbert J. Valle
Screenplay: Robert Lees, Fred Rinaldo and John Grant
Original Story: Robert Lees, Fred Rinaldo
Musical Director: H. J. Salter
Musical Numbers Staged by: Nick Castle
Art Director: Jack Otterson
Associate: Harold H. MacArthur
Set Decorations: R. A. Gausman
Gowns: Vera West
Sound Supervisor: Bernard B. Brown
Technician: William Fox
Director of Photography: Elwood Bredell
Film Editor: Philip Cahn

Cast: Bud Abbott [Chuck Murray], Lou Costello [Ferdinand Jones], Richard Carlson [Doctor Jackson], Joan Davis [Camille Brewster], Mischa Auer [Gregory, the Maitre D'], Evelyn Ankers [Norma Lind], Marc Lawrence [Charlie Smith], Shemp Howard [Soda Jerk], Russell Hicks [Bannister], William B. Davidson [Moose Matson], Ted Lewis and His Orchestra [Themselves] The Andrews Sisters [Themselves], Additional Cast: Milton Parsons [Harry Hoskins], Frank Penny [Snake-Eyes], Edgar Dearing [Irondome], Don Terry [Strangler], Edward Pawley [High Collar], Nestor Paiva [Glum], Paul Fix [Lefty], Howard Hickman [Judge], Harry Hayden [Jenkins], William Forrest [State Trooper], Paul "Tiny" Newlan [Big Fink], Joe La Cava [Little Fink], Bobby Barber [Waiter], Thurston Hall [Alderman], Janet Shaw [Alderman's Girl], Frank Richards [Gunman], William Ruhl [Customer], Madge Crane [Mrs. Giltedge], Jeanne Blanche [Pretty Young Thing], Harry Wilson [Harry]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:01] When My Baby Smiles at Me (sung by Ted Lewis and His Orchestra at Chez Glamour); [0:03] Me and My Shadow (sung by Ted Lewis and His Orchestra at Chez Glamour); [0:06] Sleepy Serenade (sung by The Andrews Sisters at Chez Glamour); [0:34] Blue Danube (played by Orchestra [record player onscreen], comic dance by Lou Costello and Joan Davis); [1:22] Aurora (sung and danced by The Andrews Sisters with Mens Chorus)

Holiday in Mexico
MGM, 1946, Color, 127 minutes, ***½
Premiere release August, 1946
General release September, 1946

One of my favorite Jane Powell movies! Jane is simply adorable as the daughter of the U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, Walter Pidgeon. Jane goes about organizing a ball for the Ambassador, convincing Cugat and Iturbi to provide entertainment. With Cugie's band is an old flame of Daddy's - Ilona Massey. When Pidgeon finds out about that, he sets his sites on rekindling the flame. Darling daughter Jane is miffed at Daddy's preocupation, so she dumps boyfriend Roddy McDowall and begins persuing "old grandpa" Iturbi. It isn't long before things really get out of hand! Musical highlights include Janie's rendition of the "Italian Street Song," Jane and Girls Chorus singing "Les Filles de Cadiz," Massey's "You, So It's You," and Jane's finale number, "Ave Maria."

Produced by: Joe Pasternak
Directed by: George Sidney
Screen Play by: Isobel Lennart
Original Story by: William Kozlenko
Musical Direction: Georgie Stoll
Song Score: various
Choreography: Stanley Donen
Art Direction: Cedric Gibbons, Jack Martin Smith
   Set Decorations: Edwin B. Willis, Arthur A. Krams
Costume Supervision: Irene
Men's Costumes by: Valles
Make-Up Created by: Jack Dawn
Recording Director: Douglas Shearer
Director of Photography: Harry Stradling
Special Effects: Warren Newcombe
Photographed in Technicolor
Technicolor Color Director: Natalie Kalmus
Associate: Henri Jaffa
Film Editor: Adrienne Fazan

Cast: Walter Pidgeon [Jeffrey Evans], Jose Iturbi [Himself], Roddy McDowall [Stanley Owen], Ilona Massey [Toni Karpathy], Xavier Cugat [Himself], Jane Powell [Christine Evans], Hugo Haas [Angus], Mikhail Rasumny [Baranga], Helene Stanley [Yvette Baranga], William "Bill" Phillips [Sam], Amparo Iturbi [Herself], Tonia Hero [Herself], Teresa Hero [Herself], Marina Koshetz [Mme. Baranga], Linda Christian [Angel], Ann Codee [Margaret], Paul Stanton [Sir Edward Owen], Doris Lloyd [Cady Millicent Owen], Rosita Marstini [Maria], Fidel Castro [Bit]

Musical Program: [0:00] Main Title (overture) Holiday in Mexico (played and sung by Orchestra and Chorus behind titles, includes some vocal excerpts from some of the songs in the film); [0:03] Italian Street Song (sung by Jane Powell); [0:08] Happy Birthday to You (sung by Jane Powell and Walter Pidgeon); [0:15] Goodnight Sweetheart (sung by Walter Pidgeon and Jane Powell); [0:20] Someone to Love (sung by Ilona Massey with Xavier Cugat and His Orchestra); [0:25] Les Filles de Cadiz (sung by Girls Chorus with Jose Iturbi at the piano); [0:28] Les Filles de Cadiz (sung by Jane Powell with Jose Iturbi at the piano); [0:35] Yo Te Amo Mucho (And That's That) (sung by Xavier Cugat and Chorus with Xavier Cuagat Orchestra); [0:40] Gypsy Lullaby (Csak egy szep lany can a vilagon) (sung by Ilona Massey); [0:44] The Music Goes 'Round and Around (sung by Ilona Massey and Mens Chorus); [0:47] You, So It's You (sung by Ilona Massey); [0:56] Concerto No. 2 (Rachmaninoff) (excerpt played by Jose Iturbi at the piano with Xavier Cugat's Orchestra); [1:05] Polonaise in A Flat (played by Jose Iturbi at the piano); [1:27] I Think of You (sung by Jane Powell with Jose Iturbi at the piano); [1:36] Liebestod (played by Jose and Amparo Iturbi at the piano); [1:38] Three Blind Mice (sung and played by Jose Iturbi); [1:39] Three Blind Mice "Boogie Woogie" arrangement (played by Jose and Amparo Iturbi at the piano, joined by Orchestra); [2:03] Ave Maria (sung by Jane Powell and Chorus); "Walter Winchell Rhumba" (sheet music only, not used); "Impatient Years" (not used); "These Patient Years" (not used)


Jane Powell Scrapbook
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Holiday Inn
(aka Irving Berlin's Holidy Inn)
Paramount, 1942, B/W, 101 minutes, ***½
Released August, 1942

Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire sing and dance their way into your heart in the sensational musical comedy Holiday Inn. Nominated for 3 Academy Awards, [this film] features 13 holiday songs by famed composer Irving Berlin, including "White Christmas" - one of the biggest-selling recordings in music history.

Crosby plays a song and dance man who leaves showbiz to run an inn that is open only on holidays. Astaire plays his former partner and rival in love. Follow the two talented pals as they find themselves competing for the affections of the same lovely lady (Marjorie Reynolds). 'Tis the season for one of the most enjoyable fims of all time! [from back of CD case]

The 1954 film White Christmas is a remake of this film, though the two have little in common.

Produced and Directed by: Mark Sandrich
Screen Play by: Claude Binyon
Adaptation by: Elmer Rice
Based on an Idea by Irving Berlin
Lyrics and Music by: Irving Berlin
Music Direction: Robert Emmett Dolan
Music Assistant: Arthur Franklin
Vocal Arrangements: Joseph Lilley
Specialty Accompaniments: Bob Crosby's Band
Dance Ensembles Staged by: Danny Dare
Art Direction: Hans Dreier, Roland Anderson
Gowns: Edith Head
Makeup Artist: Wally Westmore
Sound Recording by: Earl Hayman, John Cope
Director of Photography: David Abel
Edited by: Ellsworth Hoagland

Awards: Won Best Song Academy Award for 1942 ("White Christmas").
Academy Award nominations for Best Scoring of a Musical Picture (Robert Emmett Dolan) and Best Writing, Original Story (Irving Berlin)

Cast: Bing Crosby [Jim Hardy], Fred Astaire [Ted Hanover], Marjorie Reynolds [Linda Mason], Virginia Dale [Lila Dixon], Walter Abel [Danny Reed], Louise Beavers [Mamie], Irving Bacon [Gus], Marek Windheim [Francois], James Bell [Dunbar], John Gallaudet [Parker], Shelby Bacon [Vanderbilt], Joan Arnold [Daphne], Additional Cast: Leon Belasco [Flower Shop Owner], Harry Barris [Bandleader], Judith Gibson [Cigarette Girl], Katharine Booth (aka Karin Booth) [Hatcheck Girl], Martha Mears [Linda Mason's singing voice]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (played by Orchestra, portion sung by Chorus, behind titles); [0:04] I'll Capture Your Heart Singing (sung by Fred Astaire, Bing Crosby and Virginia Dale, with a little dancing); [0:10] Lazy (sung by Bing Crosby behind montage); [0:18] You're Easy to Dance With (sung by Fred Astaire and Chorus, danced by Astaire and Virginia Dale); [0:26] [Christmas] White Christmas (sung by Bing Crosby and Martha Mears dubbing for Marjorie Reynolds); [0:29] Happy Holiday / Holiday Inn (sung by Bing Crosby and Martha Mears dubbing for Marjorie Reynolds and Chorus); [0:32] [New Years Eve] Let's Start the New Year Right (sung by Bing Crosby); [0:45] [Lincoln's Birthday] Abraham (sung by Bing Crosby, Louise Beavers, Martha Mears dubbing for Marjorie Reynolds and Chorus); [0:52] [Valentine's Day] Be Careful, It's My Heart (sung by Bing Crosby, danced by Fred Astaire and Marjorie Reynolds); [0:58] [Washington's Birthday] I Can't Tell a Lie (sung by Fred Astaire, danced by mixed Chorus, all dressed in 18th Century fashions); [1:04] [Easter] Easter Parade (sung by Bing Crosby); [1:13] [Independence Day] Let's Say It With Firecrackers (sung by Chorus) / Song of Freedom (sung by Bing Crosby and Chorus); [1:18] Let's Say It With Firecrackers (instrumental dance solo by Fred Astaire while throwing firecrakers); [1:27] [Thanksgiving] Plenty to Be Thankful For (sung by Bing Crosby on phonograph); [1:36] White Christmas (sung by Martha Mears dubbing for Marjorie Reynolds and Chorus); [1:38] [New Years Eve] I'll Capture Your Heart Singing (with special lyric, sung and danced by Fred Astaire, Virginia Dale, Bing Crosby, Marjorie Reynolds and Chorus)

Hollywood Canteen
Warner Bros., 1944, B/W, 124 minutes, ***
Released December, 1944

Joan Leslie is at her best in this fun-filled all-star extravaganza. Another of those cast lists that includes everyone in Hollywood! Among the stars is the legendary Bette Davis, who nearly single-handedly built the Hollywood Canteen. The film was, no doubt, a proud moment for her as it celebrates the Hollywood Canteen, which offered a home away from home for thousands of G.I.s durning the war years. A really sweet film packed with music, comedy and moist eyes from one end to the other. Loads of fun!

The Warner Bros. and the Homefront Collection DVD box set includes this film, Thank Your Lucky Stars and This Is the Army

Produced by: Alex Gottlieb
Executive Producer: Jack L. Warner
Directed by: Delmer Daves
Original Screen Play by: Delmer Daves
Musical Numbers Created and Directed by: LeRoy Prinz
"Don't Fence Me In" (by) Cole Porter; "Sweet Dreams, Sweetheart" (by) Ted Koehler and M. K. Jerome; "You Can Always Tell a Yank" (by) E. Y. Harburg and Burton Lane; "We're Having a Baby" (by) Harold Adamson, Vernon Duke; "What Are You Doin' the Rest of Your Life" (by) Ted Koehler and Burton Lane; "The General Jumped at Dawn" (by) Larry Neal and Jimmy Mundy; "Gettin' Corns for My Country" (by) Jean Barry, Leah Worth and Dick Charles; "Voodoo Moon" (by) Obdulio Morales, Julio Blanco and Marion Sunshine; "Tumblin' Tumbleweeds" (by) Bob Nolan
Music Adapted by: Ray Heindorf
Musical Director: Leo F. Forbstein
Art Director: Leo Kuter
Set Decorations: Casey Roberts
Wardrobe by: Milo Anderson
Makeup Artist: Perc Westmore
Sound by: Oliver S. Garretson, Charles David Forrest
Director of Photography: Bert Glennon
Film Editor: Christian Nyby

Awards: Academy Award nominations for Best Song ("Sweet Dreams Sweetheart"), Best Score - Musical (Ray Heindorf) and Best Sound Recording

Cast: Joan Leslie [Herself], Dane Clark [Sergeant Nowland], Robert Hutton [Corporal "Slim" Green], Janis Paige [Angela], Jonathan Hale [Mr. Brodel], Barbara Brown [Mrs. Brodel], Mark Stevens, Richard Erdman [Soldiers on Deck], James Flavin [Marine Sergeant], Eddie Marr [Dance Director], Theodore von Eltz [Director], Ray Teal [Captain], Rudy Friml [Orchestra Leader], George Turner [Tough Marine], Sally Sweetland [singing voice of Joan Leslie], Andrews Sisters, Jack Benny, Joe E. Brown, Eddie Cantor, Kitty Carlisle, Jack Carson, Joan Crawford, Helmut Dantine, Bette Davis, Faye Emerson, Victor Francen, John Garfield, Sydney Greenstreet, Alan Hale, Paul Henreid, Andrea King, Peter Lorre, Ida Lupino, Irene Manning, Nora Martin, Joan McCracken, Dolores Moran, Dennis Morgan, Eleanor Parker, William Prince, Joyce Reynolds, John Ridgely, Roy Rogers and Trigger, S. Z. Sakall, Zachary Scott, Alexis Smith, Barbara Stanwyck, Craig Stevens, Joseph Szigeti, Donald Woods, Jane Wyman, Jimmy Dorsey and His Band, Carmen Cavallaro and His Orchestra, Golden Gate Quartet, Rosario and Antonio, Sons of the Pioneers [Guests]

Musical Program: [0:00] Hollywood Canteen (sung by The Andrews Sisters behind titles); [0:05] Home on the Range (played on accordion in background); [0:15] What Are You Doin' the Rest of Your Life (sung and danced by Jack Carson and Jane Wyman with Jimmy Dorsey and His Orchetra); [0:20] The General Jumped at Dawn (sung by Golden Gate Quartet); [0:26] We're Having a Baby (sung by Eddie Cantor and Nora Martin with Jimmy Dorsey and His Orchetra); [0:34] Tumblin' Tumbleweeds (sung by Sons of the Pioneers); [0:36] Don't Fence Me In (sung by Roy Rogers with Sons of the Pioneers, danced by Trigger); [0:44] Gettin' Corns For My Country (sung by The Andrews Sisters with Jimmy Dorsey and His Orchetra); [0:47] Don't Fence Me In (sung by The Andrews Sisters with Jimmy Dorsey and His Orchetra); [0:53] You Can Always Tell a Yank (sung by Dennis Morgan and Chorus with Jummy Dorsey and His Orchestra, then sung by Joe E. Brown with Chorus); [0:59] Don't Fence Me In (instrumental arrangement played by Jimmy Dorsey and His Orchestra, danced by Dane Clark and Joan Crawford); [1:13] Sweet Dreams Sweetheart (sung by by Sally Sweetland dubbing for Joan Leslie, joined by Chorus); [1:29] Ballet in Jive (danced by Joan McCracken and Ensemble); [1:37] The Bee ("Die Biene") (by Franz Schubert) (violin solo by Joseph Szigeti); [1:42] "The Souvenir" played by Joseph Szigeti and Jack Benny (comedy number); [1:47] Voodoo Moon (instrumental played by Carmen Cavallaro and His Orchestra); [1:51] unidentified instrumental number (danced by Rosario and Antonio); [1:57] Sweet Dreams Sweetheart (sung by by Kitty Carlisle); Various instrumental numbers played by Jimmy Dorsey and His Orchestra for dancing at the canteen.

Hollywood Cavalcade
20th Century-Fox, 1939, B/W & Color, 97 minutes
Released October, 1939

Set during the waning days of Hollywood's silent era, this bittersweet romantic comedy stars Alice Faye as a struggling actress and singer who becomes a star thanks to a young film director (Don Ameche). Their relationship becomes strained and their mutual affection remains unspoken through Faye's marriage to a co-star and Ameche's career ups and downs, until they're brought back together on the set of Ameche's first talkie.

The Alice Faye Collection, Vol. 2 includes this film; Rose of Washington Square; The Great American Broadcast; Hello, Frisco, Hello; and Four Jills in a Jeep

Producer: Harry Joe Brown
Directed by: Irving Cummings
Screen Play by: Ernest Pascal
Based on a Story by Hilary Lynn and Brown Holmes,
From and idea by Lou Breslow
Music Director: Louis Silvers
Technical Advisor: Henri Jaffa
Art Directors: Richard Day, Wiard Ihnen
Set Decorations: Thomas Little
Costumes: Herschel
Director of Photography: Ernest Palmer
Director of Technicolor Photography: Allen Davey
Film Editor: Walter Thompson

Cast: Alice Faye [Molly Adair], Don Ameche [Michael Linnett Connors], J. Edward Bromberg [Dave Spingold], Alan Curtis [Nicky Hayden], Stuart Erwin [Pete Tinney], Jed Prouty [Chief of Police], Buster Keaton [Himself], Donald Meek [Lyle P. Stout], George Givot [Claude], Eddie Collins, Hank Mann, Heinie Conklin, James Finlayson, Snub Pollard [Keystone Kops], Chick Chandler [Chick, Assistant Director], Russell Hicks [Roberts], Willie Fung [Willie], Ben Turpin [Bartender in Western], Irving Bacon [Bakery Clerk], Rin-Tin-Tin (Jr.) [Rin-Tin-Tin], Chester Conklin [Sheriff in Western]

Musical Program: None. This is a comedy / drama, however there is a rendition of "Kol Nidre" sung by Al Jolson.

Hollywood Hotel
First National. / Warner Bros., 1937, B/W, 109 minutes
General release January, 1938

Lavish Busby Berkeley-helmed musical stars Dick Powell as a jazz saxophonist who wins a 10-week contract with a film studio in a talent contest. After getting caught between a pretty starlet and her equally fetching sister, he appears on the popular "Hollywood Hotel" radio show and becomes a superstar. With Rosemary Lane, Lola Lane, and, Benny Goodman and His Orchestra. Songs include "Hooray for Hollywood," "Let That Be a Lesson to You," "I've Hitched My Wagon to a Star," and more.

The Busby Berkeley Collection Vol. 2 DVD Box Set (shown right) includes this film and Gold Diggers of 1937, Varsity Show and Gold Diggers in Paris.

Produced by: Samuel Bischoff
Directed by: Busby Berkeley
Written by: Richard Macaulay, Jerry Wald, Maurice Leo
Original Music by: Ray Heindorf, Heinz Roemheld
Musical Numbers Staged by: Busby Berkeley
Musical Director: Leo F. Forbstein
Musical Arrangements by: Fletcher Henderson
Art Director: Robert Haas
Costumes: Orry-Kelly
Directors of Photography: George Barnes, Charles Rosher
Film Editor: George Amy

Cast: Dick Powell [Ronnie Bowers], Rosemary Lane [Virginia Stanton], Lola Lane [Mona Marshall], Hugh Herbert [Chester Marshall], Ted Healy [Fuzzy], Glenda Farrell [Jonesey], Johnny "Scat" Davis [Georgia], Alan Mowbray [Alexander Dupre], William Clogston [Mr. Movies], Mabel Todd [Dot Marshall], Allyn Joslyn [Bernie Walton], Grant Mitchell [B. L. Faulken], Edgar Kennedy [Callaghan], Fritz Feld [The Russian], Eddie Acuff [Cameraman], Louella Parsons [Herself], Frances Langford [Alice Craine], Raymond Paige [Himself], Jerry Cooper [Himself], Ken Niles [Himself], Duane Thompson [Switchboard Operator], Benny Goodman [Himself], Benny Goodman Orchestra [Themselves]

Musical Program: "Sing, You Son of a Gun" (sung by The Company); "Let That Be a Lesson to You" (sung by The Company); "Silhouetted in the Moonlight" (sung by Rosemary Lane with Raymond Paige and His Orchestra); "I'm Like a Fish out of Water" (sung by Dick Powell and Rosemary Lane); "Silhouetted in the Moonlight" (reprised by Jerry Cooper and Frances Langford); "Let That Be a Lesson to You" (sung by Johnnie Davis, Dick Powell, Rosemary Lane, Ted Healy and Chorus with Benny Goodman and His Orchestra); "Sing, Sing, Sing" / "I've Got a Heartful of Music" (played by Benny Goodman and His Orchestra); "I've Hitched My Wagon to a Star" (sung by Dick Powell with Raymond Paige and His Orchestra); "Hooray for Hollywood" (sung by Dick Powell, Johnny "Scat" Davis Frances Langford and Gene Krupa with Benny Goodman and His Orchestra); "California, Here I Come" (played by Benny Goodman and His Orchestra); "Ochi Tchornya" (played by Raymond Paige and His Orchestra); "I'm a Ding Dong Daddy from Dumas"; "Blue Moon"

Hollywood Revue of 1929
(aka "Hollywood Revue")
MGM, 1929, B/W and Color, 118 minutes, ***
Premiere release August, 1929
General release November, 1929

MGM's not-so-humble entry into the world of movie musicals. A star-studded revue, in the Ziegfeld follies vain, includes comedy skits and musical numbers and brought us the hit tune, "Singin' in the Rain." Highlights include Bessie Love's "I Never Knew I Could Do a Thing Like That," and Marie Dressler, Polly Moran and Bessie Love performing "While Strolling Through the Park One Day." Of course, Cliff Edwards' rendition of "Singin' in the Rain" is a highlight, too.

An entertaining revue, with appearances by many celebrities of the early talkie era as well as silent screen stars. Seems more interesting for its historical value than that of entertainment, but it's fun to watch!

Producer: Harry Rapf
Directed by: Charles F. Riesner
Dialogue by: Al Boasberg, Robert Hopkins
Music by: Gus Edwards
Lyrics by: Joe Goodwin
Interpolations by: Nacio Herb Brown, Jesse Greer, Fred Fisher, Arthur Freed, Ray Klages, Andy Rice, Dave Snell, Martin Broones
Orchestra and Musical Arrangement Under Personal Supervision of: Arthur Lange
Dances and Ensemble by: Sammy Lee
Assisted by: George Cunningham
Settings by: Cedric Gibbons, Richard Day
Costumes by: David Cox
Recording Engineer: Douglas Shearer
Sound Technician Russell Franks
Photography: John Arnold, Irving G. Reis, Maximilian Fabian
Edited by: William Gray

Awards: Academy Award nominations for Outstanding Production and Best Interior Decoration (Cedric Gibbons)

Cast: Conrad Nagel (Interlocutor), Jack Benny [Masters of Ceremonies], John Gilbert, Marion Davies, Norma Shearer, William Haines, Joan Crawford, Buster Keaton, Bessie Love, Marie Dressler, Ukulele Ike (Cliff Edwards), Charles King, Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy, Gus Edwards, Anita Page, Dane and Arthur, Nils Asther, Gwen Lee, Brox Sisters, Albertina Rasch Ballet, Natova and Company, The Rounders, Additional Cast: Lionel Barrymore, James Burroughs, Paul Gibbons, Polly Moran, Jane Purcell, Belcher Children Dancers, The Biltmore Quartet [Themselves]

Program: [0:00] Singin' in the Rain (played by The MGM Orchestra behind titles); [0:01] Bones and Tambourines (sung and danced by "MGM Ensemble"); [0:06] Minstrel Days (sung in falsetto by Cliff Edwards); [0:07] Gotta Feelin' for You (sung by Joan Crawford and Chorus, danced by Joan Crawford); [0:10] Minstrel Days (includes excerpts of Old Folks at Home and Old Black Joe; sung by Charles King and Chorus offscreen, danced by Chorus onscreen); [0:12] Low Down Rhythm (sung by Jane Purcell, danced by Jane Purcell and Chorus); [0:16] Your Mother and Mine (sung by Charles King and Chorus); [0:21] You Were Meant for Me (sung by Charles King dubbing for Conrad Nagle singing to Anita Page onscreen); [0:25] Nobody But You (sung by Cliff Edwards and Chorus, then sung and danced by Chorus, then sung by Cliff Edwards in falsetto); [0:29] Your Mother and Mine (played on violin by Jack Benny onscreen, then sung by Jack Benny with Dane and Arthur as two sailors); [0:35] I Never Knew I Could Do a Thing Like That (sung by Bessie Love, danced by Bessie Love and Chorus); [0:39] For I'm the Queen (comedy bit by Marie Dressler and Polly Moran, sung by Marie Dressler and Chorus); [0:44] "Laurel and Hardy, Magicians" comedy skit; [0:50] Tommy Atkins on Parade (sung and danced by Marion Davies and Mens Chorus); [0:54] Strike Up the Band (includes segments of John Philip Sousa Marches; sung by Brox Sisters and Chorus, danced and marched by Chorus); [0:59] Intermission: (various numbers from the score reprised by Orchestra); [1:02] Tableau of the Jewels (sung by unidentified male singer offscreen, danced by Chorines draped in jewels onstage); [1:06] Underwater "ballet" comedy dance routine (danced by Buster Keaton in drag); [1:11] Lon Chaney Will Get You If You Don't Watch Out (sung by Gus Edwards, Chorus Girls and Mens Chorus dressed as monsters, danced by monsters and Chorus Girls); [1:18] Turkish "Adagio" (novelty dance number by Albertina Rasch Ballet); [1:23] Balcony scene from "Romeo and Juliet" (color segment, played by Norma Shearer and John Gilbert with Lionel Barrymore as director, the scene is played in classical style, then repeated with in dialoge); [1:30] Singin' in the Rain (sung by Cliff Edwards, Brox Sisters, Rounders and MGM Chorus, danced by Chorus); [1:37] Charlie, Ike and Gus (comedy song sung by Charles King, Cliff Edwards and Gus Edwards); [1:38] The Italian Trio (includes excerpts of various Italian songs and arias with special lyrics sung by Charles King, Gus Edwards and Cliff Edwards); [1:42] Mary, Polly and Bess (comedy sketch sung by Marie Dressler, Polly Moran and Bessie Love); [1:47] While Strolling Through the Park One Day (comedy number sung and danced by Marie Dressler, Polly Moran, Bessie Love, Charles King, Cliff Edwards and Gus Edwards); [1:48] Orange Blossom Time (color sequence, sung by Charles King, danced by Albertina Rasch Ballet); [1:56] Finale: Singin' in the Rain (sung by Company and Chorus as camera pans across all the stars' faces)

Honolulu
MGM, 1939, B/W, 82 minutes, ***
Released February, 1939

Movie star Brooks Mason (Robert Young) changes places with Hawaiian pineapple baron, George Smith (Robert Young), in order to escape his fans for a much-needed rest. But confusion rules the day when Mason "returns" to Hawaii in place of Smith, and all kinds of crazy antics take place. A fun film featuring Gracie Allen at her zany best, along with Eleanor Powell, Rochester and George Burns.

Produced by: Jack Cummings
Directed by: Edward Buzzell
Original Story and Screen Play by: Herbert Fields and Frank Partos
Musical Program: "Honolulu," "This Night Will Be My Souvenir," "The Leader Doesn't Like Music" Music by Harry Warren, Lyric by Gus Kahn; "Hawaiian Medley" Played by Andy Iona's Islanders; "The Leader Doesn't Like Music" sung by The King's Men; Music Direction: Georgie Stoll
Incidental Music: Franz Waxman
Dance Direction: Bobby Connolly, Sammy Lee
Art Director: Cedric Gibbons
   Associate: Joseph Wright
   Set Decorations: Edwin B. Willis
Musical Presentation: Merrill Pye
Gowns by: Adrian
Recording Director: Douglas Shearer
Photographed by: Ray June
Film Editor: Conrad A. Nervig

Cast: Eleanor Powell [Dorothy March], Robert Young [Brooks Mason / George Smith], George Burns [Joe Duffy], Gracie Allen [Millie de Grasse], Rita Johnson [Cecelia Grayson], Clarence Kolb [Mr. Horace Grayson], Jo Ann Sayers [Nurse], Ann Morriss [Gale Brewster], Willie Fung [Wong], Cliff Clark [1st Detective], Edward Gargan [2nd Detective], Eddie Anderson [Washington], Sig Rumann [Psychiatrist], Ruth Hussey [Eve], Kealoha Holt [Native Dancing Girl], Edgar Dearing [Jailer]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:19] Honolulu (sung by Gracie Allen, then sung by Chorus as Gracie and Eleanor Powell dance, then danced with jump ropes by Eleanor Powell); [0:32] This Night Will Be My Souvenir (sung by Bing Crosby impressionist [probably one of the King's Men]); [0:37] Old Folks at Home / Darktown Strutters Ball (danced by Eleanor Powell impersonating Bill Robinson); [0:34] The Leader Doesn't Like Music (sung by Gracie Allen and the King's Men - two disguised as Groucho Marx and two disguised as Harpo Marx); [0:50] Hola E Pae (sung and played by Andy Ilona's Islanders, short dance by Eleanor Powell); [1:06] Hawiian Medley (sung and played by Andy Iona's Islanders, danced by Eleanor Powell and Chorus Girls - three separate dances: a native drum dance, a Hula and her version of a native dance done with tap)

The sprawling story of three generations of 19th-century pioneers, and their odyssey from New England to the frontier, is a true western classic. The all-star cast includes John Wayne, Henry Fonda, Debbie Reynolds, James Stewart, Carroll Baker, Gregory Peck and Lee J. Cobb, and Spencer Tracy narrates. Co-directed by John Ford, Henry Hathaway and George Marshall.

It's a true sweeping epic; a great film. It portrays the pioneers and the sacrifices they made to tame the wilderness in the never-ending desire to better their lives. The pioneers, the outlaws, swindlers and gamblers, the cattlemen, the Indians, the railroad men... They all left their mark on the west. It's a great film, and does a remarkable job of portraying so much of the west's rich history.

Produced by: Bernard Smith
The Civil War Directed by John Ford
The Railroad Directed by George Marshall
The Players, The Plains, The Outlaws Directed by Henry Hathaway
Written by: James R. Webb
Suggested by the series "How the West Was Won" which appeared in Life Magazine
Music: Alfred Newman
Associate: Ken Darby
Songs: "How the West Was Won" Music by Alfred Newman, Lyrics by Ken Darby; "Home in the Meadow" Lyrics by Sammy Cahn; "Raise a Ruckus," "Wait for the Hoedown," "What Was Your Name in the States?" Lyrics Adapted by Johnny Mercer
Folk Singing by Dave Guard and The Whiskeyhill Singers
Music Co-ordinator: Robert Emmett Dolan
Art Direction: George W. Davis, William Ferrari, Addison Hehr
Set Decoration: Henry Grace, Don Greenwood Jr., Jack Mills
Costumes by: Walter Plunkett
Hair Styles by: Sydney Guilaroff
Make-Up Created by: William Tuttle
Recording Supervisor: Franklin Milton
Directors of Photography: William H. Daniels ("The Plains"), Milton Krasner ("The Outlaws"), Charles Lang, Jr. ("The Rivers"), Joseph LaShelle ("The Civil War" and "The Railroads")
Second Unit Photography: Harold E. Wellman
Special Visual Effects: A. Arnold Gillespie, Robert R. Hoag
Scenes with the buffalo were photographed in Custer State Park, South Dakota
Filmed in Metrocolor
Color Consultant: Charles H. Hagedon
Film Editor: Harold F. Kress

Cast: Spencer Tracy [Narrator], Carroll Baker [Eve Prescott], Lee J. Cobb [Lou Ramsey], Henry Fonda [Jethro Stuart], Karl Malden [Zebulon Prescott], Gregory Peck [Cleve Van Valen], George Peppard [Zeb Rawlings], Robert Preston [Roger Morgan], Debbie Reynolds [Lilith Prescott], James Stewart [Linus Rawlings], Eli Wallach [Charlie Gant], John Wayne [General William T. Sherman], Richard Widmark [Mike King], Brigid Bazlen [Dora Hawkins], Carolyn Jones [Julie Rawlings], Walter Brennan [Colonel Hawkins], David Brian [Attorney], Andy Devine [Corporal Peterson], Raymond Massey [Abraham Lincoln], Agnes Moorehead [Rebecca Prescott], Bryan Russell [Zeke Prescott], Harry Morgan [General Ulysses S. Grant], Thelma Ritter [Agatha Clegg], Mickey Shaughnessy [Deputy Marshall], Russ Tamblyn [Reb Soldier], Tudor Owen [Scotsman], Barry Harvey, Jamie Ross [Scotsman's Sons], Willis Bouchey [Surgeon], Kim Charney [Sam Prescott], Claude Johnson [Jeremiah Rawlings], Jerry Holmes [Railroad Clerk], Rodolfo Acosta [Desperado], Chief Weasel, Red Cloud, Ben Black Elk [Indians], Mark Allen [Colin], Lee Van Cleef [Marty], Charlie Briggs [Barker], Jay C. Flippen [Huggins], Clinton Sundberg [Hylan Seabury], James Griffith, Walter Burke [Gamblers], Joe Sawyer [Ship's Officer], John Larch [Grimes], Jack Pennick [Corporal Murphy], Craig Duncan [James Marshall], J. Edward McKinley [Auctioneer], Paul Bryar [Auctioneer's Assistant], Ken Curtis, Walter Reed, Red Perkins, Carleton Young [Union Soldiers], Harry Dean Stanton [Outlaw], Karl Swenson [Train Conductor], Jack Lambert [Gant Henchman], Christopher Dark [Poker Player], Gene Roth [Riverboat Poker Player], William Henry [Staff Officer], Ken Dibbs [Blacksmith], John Damler, Robert Nash [Lawyers], Saul Gorss, Roy Jenson, Victor Romito, Harvey Parry [Henchmen], Imogene Clark [Vocals], The Ken Darby Singers [Vocals], Dave Guard and The Whiskeyhill Quartet [Vocals]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture: How the West Was Won (played by The MGM Studio Orchestra) / I'm Bound for the Promised Land (sung by the Ken Darby Singers) / Shenandoah (sung by the Ken Darby Singers) / Endless Prairie (sung by the Ken Darby Singers) / The Ox Driver (sung by Dave Guard and The Whiskeyhill Quartet) / I'm Bound for the Promised Land (sung by the Ken Darby Singers); [0:04] Main Title (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:12] Captain Folden Halifax (?) (short excerpt sung by Debbie Reynolds) / A Home in the Meadow (sung by Debbie Reynolds, Karl Malden, the Prescott family and the Scotsman and his sons); [0:14] The Erie Canal (sung by The Whiskeyhill Quartet); [0:17] Shenandoah (sung by The Ken Darby Singers); [0:19] "When I was single, went dressed up so fine. Now I am married, Go ragged all the time." (?) (excerpt sung by Debbie Reynolds); [0:44] Rock of Ages (sung by survivors of Prescott family); [0:49] St. Louis Music Hall: Wait for the Wagon (sung by The Ken Darby Singers, danced by Debbie Reynolds and Ensemble); [1:04] Raise a Ruckus Tonight (performed by Debbie Reynolds, The Ken Darby Singers, The Whiskeyhill Quartet; danced by Ensemble); [1:13] Careless Love (sung by Judy Henske and The Whiskeyhill Quartet); [1:16] What Was Your Name in the States? (sung and danced by Debbie Reynolds); [1:20] A Home in the Meadow (sung by Debbie Reynolds); [1:24] Intermission / Entr'acte: A Home in the Meadow (played by Orchestra, sung by Chorus) / Nine Hundred Miles (sung by The Ken Darby Singers) / Banks of the Sacramento (sung by The Ken Darby Singers) / I'm Bound for the Promised Land / When Johnny Comes Marching Home (sung in counterpoint by The Ken Darby Singers) / The Battle Hymn of the Republic (sung by The Ken Darby Singers); [1:45] When Johnny Comes Marching Home (sung by The Ken Darby Singers); [2:27] A Home in the Meadow (sung by Debbie Reynolds, then sung by the Ken Darby Singers); [2:31] I'm Bound for the Promised Land (sung by The Ken Darby Singers); [2:33] Exit Music: I'm Bound for the Promised Land (sung by The Ken Darby Singers) / Banks of the Sacramento (sung by The Ken Darby Singers and The Whiskeyhill Quartet) / A Home in the Meadow (sung by Imogene Clark and The MGM Studio Chorus)

How to Stuff a Wild Bikini
American International Pictures (AIP), 1965, Color, 93 minutes, **½
Released July, 1965

Fearful that buddy Dwayne Hickman will hit on Annette Funicello while he's on Naval Reserve duty, Frankie Avalon gets witch doctor Buster Keaton to send a magical bikini (stuffed with beautiful Beverly Adams) to woo away Hickman. And that's just the start of the hi-jinks in this bouncy beach comedy that also stars Mickey Rooney, The Kingsmen ("Louie Louie"), and Harvey Lembeck; look for Brian Wilson as a (what else?) "beach boy."

Produced by: James H. Nicholson and Samuel Z. Arkoff
Co-Producer: Anthony Carras
Production Supervisor: Jack Bohrer
Directed by: William Asher
Assistant Director: Dale Huthinson
Written by: William Asher and Leo Townsend
Musical Supervision: Al Simms
Musical Score by: Les Baxter
Songs: Words and Music by Guy Hemric and Jerry Styner
"Give Her Lovin" Words and Music by Lynn Easton
Choreography by: Jack Baker
Art Direction: Howard Campbell
Set Decorator: George Nelson
Special Interior Decoration: Ian Phillips, La Difference
Costume Supervisor: Richard Bruno
Make-up: Ted Goodley
Hair Stylist: Ray Foreman
Sound: Don Rush
Director of Photography: Floyd Crosby
Special Effects by: Roger George, Bill Ferrier
Photographic Effects by: Butler Glouner
Animation by: Jack Kinney Filmed in Panavision and Pathecolor
Film Editors: Fred Feitshans, Eve Newman

Cast: Annette Funicello [Dolores, ("Dee Dee")], Frankie Avalon [Frankie], Dwayne Hickman [Ricky], Brian Donlevy [B.D.], Mickey Rooney [Peachy Keane], Buster Keaton [Bwana], Harvey Lembeck [Eric Von Zipper], Beverly Adams [Cassandra], Jody McCrea [Bonehead], John Ashley [Johnny], Marianne Gaba [Animal], Len Lesser [North Dakota Pete], Irene Tsu [Native Girl], Arthur Julian [Dr. Melamed], Bobbi Shaw [Khola Koku], The Kingsmen [Themselves], Alberta Nelson [Puss], Salli Sachse [Bookend], Linda Bent [Bookend], Marianne Gordon [Chickie], Sheila Stephenson [Secretary], Sue Williams [Peanuts], Rosemary Williams [English Girl], Tonia Van Deter [Italian Girl], Uta Stone [German Girl], Toni Harper [Barberette], Michele Barton [Manicurist], Victoria Carroll [Shoe Shine Girl], Andy Romano [J.D.], Elizabeth Montgomery [Cameo as Bwana's Witch Daughter], John Macchia, Jerry Brutsche, Bob Harvey, Myrna Ross, Alan Fife [The Rats], Alan Frohlich, Tom Quine, Hollis Morrison, Guy Hemric, George Boyce, Charles Reed [Ad Men], Patti Chandler [Patti], Mike Nader [Mike], Luree Holmes, Jo Collins, Mary Hughes, Stephanie Nader, Jeannine White, Janice Levinson [Beach Girls], Ed Garner, John Fain, Mickey Dora, Brian Wilson, Bruce Baker, Ned Wynn, Kerry Berry, Dick Jones, Ray Atkinson, Ronnie Dayton [Beach Boys]

Musical Program: [0:00] Main Title (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:09] How to Stuff a Wild Bikini (sung and danced by the Beach Boys and the Beach Girls); [0:15] How About Us (sung and danced by Mickey Rooney and the Beach Girls); [0:20] Madison Avenue (sung by Mickey Rooney and the Ad Men); [0:22] That's What I Call a Healthy Girl (sung by the Beach Boys); [0:39] Boy Next Door (sung by Harvey Lembeck and the Rats); [0:44] Give Her Lovin' (sung by The Kingsmen); [0:46] Better Be Ready (sung by Annette Funicello with The Kingsmen); [0:59] The Perfect Boy (sung by Annette Funicello and the Beach Girls); [1:04] Follow Your Leader (sung by Harvey Lembeck and the Rats); [1:08] If It's Gonna Happen (sung by Irene Tsu, Frankie Avalon, Annette Funicello and Dwayne Hickman); [1:25] After the Party (sung by the Beach Boys and the Beach Girls); [1:29] After the Party (reprised by the Beach Boys and the Beach Girls)

How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying
(aka How to Succeed in Business)
Mirisch / United Artists, 1967, Color, 121 minutes, ***½
Released March, 1967

A tongue-in-cheek, if somewhat cynical, look at the world of big business and the best way to get ahead. Frank Loesser Broadway hit is brought to the screen with Robert Morse reprising his stage role. Lots of fun with Michele Lee and Rudy Vallee joining in. Beautiful Michelle Lee's "I Believe in You" gets my vote for best song!

MGM Classic Musicals Collection DVD Box Set (shown right) contains this film and West Side Story, Guys and Dolls, Fiddler on the Roof, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

Written for the Screen, Produced and Directed by: David Swift
Associate Producer: Irving Temaner
Screenplay: David Swift (based on the stage musical by Abe Burrows, Willie Gilbert, and Jack Weinstock, novel by Shepherd Mead)
Music Supervised and Conducted by: Nelson Riddle
Music and Lyrics by: Frank Loesser
Stage Play Directed by Abe Burrows
Book by Abe Burrows, Jack Weinstock and Willie Gilbert
Based upon the Novel by Shepherd Mead
Produced on the stage by Cy Feuer and Ernest H. Martin in Association with Frank Productions, Inc.
Based on the original Broadway musical staging by Bob Fosse
Choreography by: Dale Moreda
Art Director: Robert Boyle
Color Design by: Mary Blair
Set Decorator: Edward G. Boyle
Costume Design: Micheline
Men's Costumes: Ed Ware
Ladies Costumes: Leslie Hall
Makeup: Robert J. Schiffer
Hair Dresser: Fae M. Smith
Music Editor: Richard Carruth
Sound Editor: James Richard
Director of Photography: Burnett Guffey
Filmed in Panavision, Color by DeLuxe
Film Editors: Ralph E. Winters, Allan Jacobs

Cast: Robert Morse [J. Pierpont Finch], Michele Lee [Rosemary Pilkington], Rudy Vallee [J. B. Biggley], Anthony Teague [Bud Frump], Maureen Arthur [Hedy LaRue], Murray Matheson [Benjamin Ovington], Kay Reynolds [Smitty], Sammy Smith [Mr. Twimble, Wally Womper], John Myhers [Bratt], Jeff DeBenning [Gatch], Ruth Kobart [Miss Jones], George Fenneman [TV Announcer], Anne Seymour [Mrs. Biggley], Erin O'Brien-Moore [Mrs. Frump], Joey Faye [Taxi Cab Driver], Helen Verbit [Finch's Landlady], Virginia Sale [Cleaning Woman], Al Nessor [Newspaper Seller], Carol Worthington [Miss Krumholtz], Janice Carroll [Brenda], Lory Patrick [Receptionist], Patrick O'Moore [Media Man], Wally Strauss [Media Man], Ivan Volkman [President of the U.S.], David Swift [Elevator Operator], Dan Tobin [Johnson], Robert Q. Lewis [Tackaberry], John Holland [Matthews], Paul Hartman [Toynbee], Justin Smith [Jenkins], Hy Averback [2nd Executive], Bob Sweeney [3d Executive], Paul Bradley [TV Board Member], Tucker Smith [Junior Executive]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:03] How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying (sung by Robert Morse); [0:15] The Company Way (sung by Robert Morse and Sammy Smith); [0:32] A Secretary Is Not a Toy (performed by John Myhers and Ensemble); [0:38] Been a Long Day (sung by Kay Reynolds, Michele Lee and Robert Morse, joined by Chorus); [0:44] Been a Long Day (sung by Anthony Teague, Rudy Vallee and Maureen Arthur); [0:47] I Believe in You (sung by Michelle Lee); [0:54] Grand Old Ivy (sung by Rudy Vallee and Robert Morse); [0:58] Grand Old Ivy (reprised by Rudy Vallee and Robert Morse); [1:19] Rosemary (performed by Robert Morse); [1:30] Gotta Stop That Man (sung by the Executives); [1:31] I Believe in You (sung by Robert Morse); [1:51] Brotherhood of Man (sung and danced by Robert Morse, the Executives, Sammy Smith, Ruth Kobart and Company); [2:00] The Company Way (sung by the Company)

Huckleberry Finn
(aka "Mark Twain's Huckleberry Finn / A Musical Adaptation")
Reader's Digest / MGM/UA, 1974, Color, 114 minutes, ***
Released May, 1974

In this delightful musical adaptation of Mark Twain's most famous novel, Jeff East (Tom Sawyer) returns as the lovable scamp Huckleberry Finn, while Oscar nominee Paul Winfield (Sounder) shows "considerable strength" (Cinema) as Jim, the runaway slave who joins 15-year-old Huck for an unforgettable raft ride on the Mississippi River.

Strong-willed and self-raised, Huck decides to flee his home town of Hannibal, Missouri, when his cruel absentee father tries to kidnap him. Accompanying him is the sharp-witted Jim, who fears he is about to be sold. As this unlikely pair journey north to freedom, they develop a bond of friendship and mutual respect that will help them brave a series of narrow escapes, thrilling adventures and characters so colorful only Mark Twain could pen them!   [from back of DVD case]

See also: Tom Sawyer

Produced by: Arthur P. Jacobs
Associate Producer: Robert Greenhut
Directed by: J. Lee Thompson
Screenplay: Robert B. Sherman and Richard M. Sherman
Based upon "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
Music and Lyrics by: Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman
Music Conducted and Supervised by: Fred Werner
Production Design: Phillip Jefferies
Choreography by: Marc Breaux
Set Decorator: Robert De Vestel
Makeup Supervision: John Inzerella
Hair Stylist: Vivienne Walker
Costumes Designed by: Donfeld
Sound: Larry Jost
Director of Photography: Laszlo Kovacs
Filmed in Panavision, Color by Deluxe
Film Editor: Michael F. Anderson

Cast: Jeff East [Huckleberry Finn], Paul Winfield [Jim], Harvey Korman [The King], David Wayne [The Duke], Arthur O'Connell [Col. Grangerford], Gary Merrill [Pap], Natalie Trundy [Mrs. Loftus], Lucille Benson [Widder Douglas], Kim O'Brien [Maryjane Wilks], Jean Fay [Susan Wilks], Ruby Leftwich [Miss Watson], Odessa Cleveland [Jim's Wife], Joe Boris [Jason], Danny Lantrip [Kyle], Van Bennett [Wayne], Linda Watkins [Mrs. Grangerford], Jean Combs [Miss Emmeline], Frances Fawcett [Miss Charlotte], Suzanne Prystup [Miss Maryanne], H. L. Rowley [Horatio], Doris Owens [Marybelle], Frank Mills [Buck], Sherree Sinquefield [Miss Sophia], R. Norwood Smith [1st Hunter], Jack Millstein [2nd Hunter], Morris Denton [Riverboat Captain], Larry Ferney [Man #1 at Theater], Albert Schilling [Man #2 at Theater], Clayton Starling [Big Man at Theater], Rex Commack [Bartender], George Prescott [Man #3 at Jackson's Landing], Hoskins Deterly [Lot Hovey], Elliott Trimble [Uncle Harvey], Mrs. James Torrey [1st Woman at Auction], Rose Pansano [2nd Woman at Auction], John Schwartzman [Boy at Auction], Forrest Colebank [Abner Shackleford], Charles C. Burns [Sheriff], Pat O'Connor [Guard #1], Gray Montgomery [Guard #2], Sam Blackmon (Guard #3], Ron Wright [Roughman #1], Louis Wentworth III [Roughman #2], Andrew Night [Roughman #3], Orville Meyer [Tomkins, Blacksmith], Ken Wannberg [Piano Player]

With special thanks to the Governor and the State of Mississippi, the Officials and Citizens of the City of Natchez.

Musical Program: [0:01] Freedom (sung by Roberta Flack and Chorus); [0:05] Huckleberry Finn (sung by Chorus offscreen); [0:13] Someday Honey Darling (sung by Paul Winfield); [0:18] Rotten Luck (sung by Gary Merrill); [0:23] Cairo, Ill. (sung by Paul Winfield and Jeff East); [0:39] Rose in a Bible (sung by Jean Combs and Suzanne Prystup, joined by party guests); [0:55] Royalty (sung by Harvey Korman and David Wayne); [1:06] Royal Nonesuch (sung by Harvey Korman); [1:18] Into His Hands (sung by Harvey Korman, joined by mourners); [1:29] What's Right, What's Wrong (sung by Jeff East) [1:50] Freedom (reprised by Roberta Flack and Chorus); [1:52] Huckleberry Finn / Cairo, Ill. (reprised by Chorus behind end credits)

Hullabaloo
MGM, 1940, B/W, 77 minutes, ***
Released October, 1940

Great fun with zany vaudevillian Frank Morgan trying to break into radio. Billie Burke, Connie Gilchrist and Sara Haden play his three wives who throw a monkey wrench into Frank's plans when they show up demanding back alimony payments. Newcomer Leni Lynn is fun as Frank's daughter, and Dan Dailey and the beautiful Virginia Grey make the perfect young lovers. Leni Lynn's "We've Come a Long Way Together" is a definite high-point in the film.

Producer: Louis K. Sidney
Director: Edwin L. Marin
Screenplay: Nat Perrin (based on an idea by Bradford Ropes and Val Burton)
Song Score: various
Art Director: Eddie Imazu
Set Decorator: Edwin B. Willis
Wardrobe: Dolly Tree
Director of Photography: Charles Lawton
Film Editing: Conrad A. Nervig

Cast: Frank Morgan [Frank Merriweather], Virginia Grey [Laura Merriweather], Dan Dailey [Bob Strong], Billie Burke [Penny Merriweather], Nydia Westman [Lulu Perkins], Ann Morriss [Wilma Norton], Donald Meek [Clyde Perkins], Reginald Owen ["Buzz" Foster], Charles Holland [Bellhop], Leni Lynn [Judy Merriweather], Virginia O'Brien [Virginia Ferris], Curt Bois [Armand Francois], Sara Haden [Sue Merriweather], Larry Nunn [Terry Merriweather], Barnett Parker [Stephens], George Lessey [Arthur Jay Norton], Cy Kendall [Wilson], Connie Gilchrist [Arline Merriweather]

Musical Program: [0:02] Carry Me Back to Old Virginny (Charles Holland, then Virginia O'Brien); [0:26] You Were Meant for Me (Frank Morgan); [0:38] Vaudeville medley (Frank Morgan, Virginia Grey, Leni Lynn, Larry Nunn); [0:41] We've Come a Long Way Together (Leni Lynn); [1:04] Jeanie with the Light Brown Hair (Leni Lynn, then Virginia O'Brien); [1:11] Vesti la giubba (from the opera PAGLIACCI, sung by Charles Holland); [1:16] We've Come a Long Way Together (Finale: Frank Morgan, joined by Ensemble)