Radio City Revels
RKO, 1938, B/W, 88 minutes, ***
Released February, 1938

Jack Oakie and Milton Berle are down-and-out songwriters. Out of desperation they have started a mail-order songwriting school in an attempt to make enough money to survive. When pupil Bob Burns shows up, they discover that he can only dream up melodies when he's asleep - and they are good! So, Oakie and Berle get a contract to write a song score, and try to compose the score by jotting down notes when Burns is sleeping. Features a young Ann Miller in her fourth film.

Producer: Edward Kaufman
Director: Ben Stoloff
Screenplay: Eddie Davis, Matt Brooks, Anthony Veiller and Mortimer Offner
Music Director: Victor Baravalle
Music: Herb Magidson and Allie Wrubel
Choreography: Hermes Pan
Art Direction: Van Nest Polglase
Special Effects: Vernon L. Walker and Douglas Travers
Set Decoration: Darrell Silvera
Gowns: Edward Stevenson
Sound: Earl A. Wolcott
Special Effects: Douglas Travers, Vernon L. Walker
Cinematography: J. Roy Hunt, Jack MacKenzie
Film Editing: Arthur Roberts

Cast: Bob Burns [Lester Robin], Jack Oakie [Harry Miller], Kenny Baker [Kenny Baker], Ann Miller [Billie Shaw], Victor Moore [Paul Plummer], Milton Berle [Teddy Jordan], Helen Broderick [Gertie Shaw], Buster West [Squenchy], Melissa Mason [Lisa], Richard Lane [Crane], Marilyn Vernon [Delia Robin], Don Wilson [Announcer], Jane Froman [Herself, Vocalist with Hal Kemp], Hal Kemp and his Orchestra [Themselves]

Musical Program: [0:01] I'm Takin' a Shine to You (Kenny Baker with Hal Kemp and His Orchestra); [0:05] You're the Apple of My Eye You Little Peach (Victor Moore, then Jack Oakie); [0:12] Swingin' in the Corn (production number: sung and danced by Bob Burns and Ensemble); [0:34] Take a Tip from the Tulip (Bob Burns; then Jack Oakie, Ann Miller and Kenny Baker; then Jane Froman with Hal Kemp and His Orchestra); [0:45] Goodnight Angel (Kenny Baker); [1:09] (There's a) New Moon Over the Old Mill (unidentified female quartet joined by Kenny Baker); [1:20] Speak Your Heart (sung by Jane Froman with Hal Kemp and His Orchestra, danced by Ann Miller and Chorus)

Rainbow
Ten Four Productions / NBC-TV, 1978, Color, 97 minutes, ***
First aired November 6, 1978

Made-for-TV movie biopic of Judy Garland, covering four years of her life from about 1935 through 1938. It is based on the biography "Rainbow" by Christopher Finch. It is a controversial film among Judy Garland fans. Many fans feel that Andrea McArdle did not portray Judy well, and that she cannot sing as well as Judy did at that age (but, then, who can?). And some fans point out that the film is not factually accurate.

All that aside, I think it's an enjoyable film, and it has some great music in it. I like Andrea McArdle, and the film has some good moments. There are some subtleties that are easily missed. I particularly like the Gumm Sisters renditions of "Stay on the Right Side Sister" and "Judy", and Andrea's rendition of "Dinah." I definitely think the film is worth watching!

Produced by: Peter Dunne
Associate Producer: Bob Birnbaum
Executive Producers: Greg Strangis, William Hogan
Directed by: Jackie Cooper
Assistant Director: Daisy Gerber
Based on the Book Rainbow: The stormy life of Judy Garland by Christopher Finch
Teleplay by: John McGreevey
Original Music by: Charles Fox
Executive in Charge of Music: Lewis Perles
Music Supervisor: Sheldon Russell
Vocal Consultant: Buddy Pepper
Art Director: Bill Ross
Set Decorator: Ira Bates
Costumers: Marilyn Matthews, Tony Faso
Make-Up: Tom Miller
Hair Stylist: Christine George
Director of Photography: Howard Schwartz
Photographic Effects: Howard A. Anderson Co.
Color by Movielab
Film Editor: Jerry Dronsky

Cast: Andrea McArdle [Judy Garland], Piper Laurie [Ethel Gumm], Don Murray [Frank Gumm], Nicholas Pryor [Wil Gilmore], Michael Parks [Roger Edens], Rue McClanahan [Ida Koverman], Martin Balsam [Louis B. Mayer], Donna Pescow [Jimmy Gumm], Erin Donovan [Janey Gumm], Philip Sterling [Arthur Freed], Peggy Walton [Laura Gilmore], Moosie Drier [Mickey Rooney], Ben Frank [Agent], Johnny Doran [Jackie Cooper]

Musical Program: [0:00] Jingle Bells (sung by unidentified small girl portraying Judy at age 2½); [0:01] I'm Always Chasing Rainbows (Andrea McArdle); [0:05] Stay on the Right Side Sister (Andrea McArdle, Donna Pescow and Erin Donovan as the Gumm Sisters); [0:08] I'll Get By (As Long as I Have You) (sung by Don Murray as he tucks Judy into bed); [0:13] Puttin' on the Ritz (Andrea McArdle, Donna Pescow and Erin Donovan as the Gumm Sisters); [0:19] I'm Always Chasing Rainbows (Andrea McArdle); [0:25] Stormy Weather (Andrea McArdle); [0:31] Judy (Andrea McArdle, Donna Pescow and Erin Donovan as the Gumm Sisters); [0:35] Studio audition sequence: Zing! Went the Strings of My Heart (sung by Andrea McArdle to various bored studio executives); [0:40] Dinah (Andrea McArdle); [0:43] Zing! Went the Strings of My Heart (sung by Andrea McArdle at audition for Ida Koverman, Arthur Freed, Roger Edens and Louis B. Mayer); [0:51] I'll Get By (As Long as I Have You) (Andrea McArdle); [0:54] You Can't Have Everything (excerpt sung by Andrea McArdle); [1:02] Broadway Rhythm (excerpt sung by Andrea McArdle); [1:10] Dear Mr. Gable (You Made Me Love You) (Andrea McArdle at Clark Gable's birthday party); [1:17] Bill (excerpt sung off-screen by Andrea McArdle); [1:32] Over the Rainbow (Andrea McArdle)

Rainbow on the River
(aka It Happened in New Orleans)
Principal Productions / RKO, 1936, B/W, 83 minutes, ***
Released December, 1936

Bobby Breen and May Robson star in a song-filled tale of a young orphan boy and the ex-slave caring for him in the post-Civil War South, until the child goes to live with a wealthy grandmother in New York. With Louise Beavers, Eddie "Rochester" Anderson.

The film opens with the statement: "In the years following the Civil War, the South lies vanquished. The clank of sword and cannon's roar have faded into the silence of time, yet in the hearts of the people bitter memories of the conflict are still alive..." Old New Orleans in 1873

Producer: Sol Lesser
Associate Producer: Edward Gross
Director: Kurt Neumann
Assistant Director: George Sherman
Writers: Harry Chandlee, Earle Snell and William Hurlbut
Adapted from the Novel "Toinette's Philip" by Mrs. C.V. Jamison
Additional dialogue by Clarence Marks
Musical Setting Conceived and Directed by Hugo Riesenfeld
Associate: Abe Meyer
Songs: "Rainbow on the River" by Louis Alter and Paul F. Webster
"Flower Song" by Hugo Riesenfeld and Selma Hautzik
"Waitin' for the Sun to Rise" by Karl Hajos and Arthur Swanstrom
Art Director: Harry Oliver
Associate Art Directors: Lewis J. Rachmil and Earl Wooden
Costume Supervisor: Albert Diano
Sound Engineer: Hal Burbaugh
Cinematography: Charles Schoenbaum
Film Editor: Robert Crandall

Cast: Bobby Breen [Philip], May Robson [Mrs. Ainsworth], Charles Butterworth [Barrett], Alan Mowbray [Ralph Layton], Benita Hume [Julia Layton], Henry O'Neill [Father Josef], Louise Beavers [Toinette], Marilyn Knowlden [Lucille Layton], Lillian Yarbo [Seline], Stymie Beard [Lilybell Jones], Edward Anderson [Doctor], Hall Johnson Singers, Additional Cast (not included in end credits): Betty Blythe [Flower Buyer], Theresa Maxwell Conover [Mrs. Logan], Lew Kelly [Cabman], Lillian Harmer [Superintendent]

Musical Program: [0:01] Flower Song (sung by Bobby Breen); [0:08] unidentified hymn: Mother of Mothers, Thy Children beseech thee... (sung by Bobby Breen accompanied by Henry O'Neill on the organ onscreen); [0:11] Ring de Banjo (sung by Louise Beavers and Bobby Breen, banjo played onscreen by Louise Beavers); [0:16] Waitin' for the Sun to Rise (sung by Bobby Breen with the Hall Johnson Singers); [0:33] Holy, Holy, Holy (Lord God Almighty) (sung by Bobby Breen and Choir in church processional); [0:34] Ave Maria (Schubert version, sung by Bobby Breen with Choir); [0:48] Flower Song (reprised by Bobby Breen); [0:51] De Camptown Races (excerpt sung by Bobby Breen with a little help from Charles Butterworth); [0:54] Dixie (a few bars picked out on piano by Bobby Breen onscreen); [0:57] Old Folks at Home (sung by Bobby Breen with the Hall Johnson Singers); [1:00] Flower Song (reprised by Bobby Breen); [1:03] Rainbow on the River (sung by Bobby Breen); [1:16] Rainbow on the River (reprised by Bobby Breen and the Hall Johnson Singers)

Reaching for the Moon
Feature Productions / United Artists, 1930, B/W, 67 minutes, ***
Premiere release December, 1930
General release February, 1931
This edit released by Artcinema Associates, 1937

Depression-influenced comedy stars Douglas Fairbanks, Sr. as a financier whose setbacks are driving him to drink much to the consternation of valet Edward Everett Horton. Witty comedy (which began as an Irving Berlin musical until all but one song was excised) co-stars Bebe Daniels and includes a Berlin score and an early performance by Bing Crosby.

A very funny movie, though it takes a rather sobering turn when the stock market crashes. Fairbanks is broke, but he bounces back quickly. Douglas Fairbanks is a scream, and E. E. Horton is always fun!

Presented by: Joseph M. Schenck
Written and Directed by: Edmund Goulding
Based on a story... with music by Irving Berlin
Additional Dialogue: Elsie Janis
Assistant Director: Lonnie D'Orsa
Musical Direction: Alfred Newman
Settings: William Cameron Menzies
Decorations: Julia Heron
Fashions: David Cox
Recording Supervisor: Theodore Reed
Recording: Oscar Lagerstrom
Photography: Ray June and Robert Planck
Editors: Lloyd Nosler and Hal C. Kern

Cast: Douglas Fairbanks [Larry Day], Bebe Daniels [Vivan Benton], Edward Everett Horton [Rogers, the Valet], Claud Allister [Sir Horace Partington Chelmsford], Jack Mulhall [Jimmy Carrington], Walter Walker [James Benton], June MacCloy [Kitty], Helen Jerome Eddy [Day's Secretary], Bing Crosby [Himself]

Musical Program: Reaching for the Moon (trimmed from shorter prints); [0:44] When the Folks Up High Do the Mean Low-Down (sung by Bing Crosby and Bebe Daniels, danced by ship passengers)

Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm
20th Century-Fox, 1938, B/W, 80 minutes, ***
Released March, 1938

Apparently 20th Century-Fox bought this property for its title only, as it bears little resemblance to the Mary Pickford film (1917) or the Marian Nixon film (1932). All that aside, it's an enjoyable entry from America's favorite little moppet.

When orphaned Rebecca's (Shirley Temple) uncle Henry Kipper (William Demarest) fails to launch Rebecca as a child radio star, he takes her to live with her aunt (Helen Westley) on Sunnybrook farm. And who should live next door but radio producer Anthony Kent (Randolph Scott)? Of course, Kent finds a way to get Rebecca on the air, but when Kipper hears the program he wants Rebecca back, and a family feud erupts!

Producer: Darryl F. Zanuck
Associate Producer: Raymond Griffith
Directed by: Allan Dwan
Assistant Director: Aaron Rosenberg
Screen Play by: Karl Tunberg and Don Ettlinger
(suggested by the Kate Douglas Wiggin story)
Music and Lyrics by: Mack Gordon, Harry Revel, Lew Pollack, Sidney D. Mitchell, Sam Pokrass, Jack Yellen, Raymond Scott
Dances Staged by: Nick Castle and Geneva Sawyer
Musical Direction: Arthur Lange
Art Direction: Bernard Herzbrun, Hans Peters
Set Decoration: Thomas Little
Costumes: Gwen Wakeling
Sound: George Leverett, Roger Heman
Photography: Arthur Miller
Film Editor: Allen McNeil

Cast: Shirley Temple [Rebecca Winstead], Randolph Scott [Anthony Kent], Jack Haley [Orville Smithers], Gloria Stuart [Gwen Warren], Phyllis Brooks [Lola Lee], Helen Westley [Aunt Miranda Wilkins], Slim Summerville [Homer Busby], Bill Robinson [Aloysius], J. Edward Bromberg [Dr. Hill], Alan Dinehart [Purvis], Raymond Scott and his Quintet [Themselves], Dixie Dunbar [Receptionist], Paul Hurst [Mug], William Demarest [Henry Kipper], Ruth Gillette [Melba], Paul Harvey [Cyrus Bartlett], Clarence Wilson [Jake Singer], Sam Hayes, Gary Breckner, Carroll Nye [Radio Announcers], Franklin Pangborn [Hamilton Montmarcy], William Wagner [Rev. Turner], Eily Malyon [Mrs. Turner], Mary McCarty [Florabelle]

Musical Program: [0:01] Happy Ending (Phyllis Brooks); [0:06] You've Gotta Eat Your Spinach, Baby (various girls at audition); [0:07] An Old Straw Hat (Shirley Temple at audition); [0:23] An Old Straw Hat (sung by Shirley Temple, dancing a couple steps with Bill Robinson); [0:29] An Old Straw Hat (Shirley Temple at Tony Kent's house); [0:38] Crackly Grain Flakes (unidentified quartet); [0:42] Alone with You (Phyllis Brooks and Jack Haley); [0:49] Come and Get Your Happiness (Shirley Temple and Girls Chorus); [0:55] Au Revoir (includes medley of: On the Good Ship Lollipop / When I'm with You / Animal Crackers in My Soup / Oh My Goodness) (Shirley Temple); [1:16] Parade of the Wooden Soldiers (sung by Shirley Temple with Raymond Scott Quintet, danced by Shirley Temple, Bill Robinson and Mens Chorus)


Shirley leads the chorus in
"Come and Get Your Happiness"
(original photo ©1938 20th Century-Fox)

Reckless
MGM, 1935, B/W, 96 minutes
Released April, 1935

In this snappy romantic drama spiced with musical numbers, Jean Harlow performs a change-of-pace role as a Broadway actress whose effect on men leads to jealousy, scandal and even murder. William Powell, Franchot Tone, May Robson, Ted Healy and Rosalind Russell star. Songs include "Ev'rything's Been Done Before" and the title tune.

Producer: David O. Selznick
Director: Victor Fleming
Screenplay: P.J. Wolfson
(based on the story "A Woman Called Cheap" by David O. Selznick)
Music Director: Victor Baravalle
Song Score: various
Choreography: Chester Hale and Carl Randall
Art Direction: Cedric Gibbons
Gowns: Adrian
Cinematography: George Folsey
Film Editing: Margaret Booth

Cast: Jean Harlow [Mona Leslie], William Powell [Ned Riley], Franchot Tone [Bob Harrison], May Robson [Granny], Ted Healy [Smiley], Nat Pendleton [Blossom], Robert Light [Paul Mercer], Mickey Rooney [Eddie], Rosalind Russell [Josephine], Henry Stephenson [Harrison], Louise Henry [Louise], James Ellison [Dale Every], Leon Waycoff (aka Leon Ames) [Ralph Watson], Man Mountain Dean [Himself], Farina [Gold Dust], Allan Jones [Allan], Nina Mae McKinney [Herself], Hans Steinke [Wrestler], Ernie Haynes [Wrestler], Robert Andrews [Mona's Baby], Jeanie Gunn [Little Girl Singer], Virginia Verrill [singing voice of Jean Harlow]

Musical Program: Reckless (Virginia Verrill dubbing for Jean Harlow); Asi se Besa (instrumental); Everything's Been Done Before (sung by Allan Jones); Hear What My Heart Is Saying (sung by Virginia Verrill dubbing for Jean Harlow)

Red Garters
Paramount, 1954, Color, 91 minutes, ***½
Released March, 1954

Rosemary Clooney, Jack Carson, Guy Mitchell, Pat Crowley and Gene Barry star in this high-spirited, highly stylized musical / comedy that pokes gentle fun at Western movies. A cowboy rides into a frontier town to catch his brother's killer, but also finds romance along the way. Songs include "A Dime and a Dollar," "Good Intentions," "Man and Woman."

Produced by: Pat Duggan
Directed by: George Marshall
Assistant Director: John Coonan
Written by: Michael Fessier
Music Direction and Vocal Adaptations by: Joseph J. Lilley
Music and Lyrics by: Jay Livingston and Ray Evans
Choreography by: Nick Castle
Art Direction: Hal Pereira, Roland Anderson
Set Decoration: Sam Comer and Ray Moyer
Women's Costumes: Edith Head
Men's Costumes: Yvonne Wood
Makeup Supervision: Wally Westmore
Sound Recording by: Gene Merritt, John Cope
Director of Photography: Arthur E. Arling
Special Photographic Effects: John P. Fulton
Color by Technicolor
Technicolor Color Consultant: Richard Mueller
Edited by: Arthur Schmidt

Cast: Rosemary Clooney [Calaveras Kate], Jack Carson [Jason Carberry], Guy Mitchell [Reb Randall], Pat Crowley [Susana Martinez De La Cruz], Joanne Gilbert [Sheila Winthrop], Gene Barry [Rafael Moreno], Cass Daley [Minnie Redwing], Frank Faylen [Billy Buckett], Reginald Owen [Judge Winthrop], Buddy Ebsen [Ginger Pete], Richard Hale [Dr. J. Pott Troy]

Musical Program: [0:00] Red Garters (excerpt sung by Rosemary Clooney and Chorus Girls before titles, instrumental arrangement played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:02] A Dime and a Dollar (sung by Guy Mitchell); [0:07] The Robin Randall Song (sung by Ensemble); [0:14] Man and Woman (sung by Rosemary Clooney and Guy Mitchell); [0:25] Lady Killer (sung and danced by Rosemary Clooney and Chorus); [0:32] A Dime and a Dollar (continued by Guy Mitchell); [0:39] Red Garters (sung and danced by Rosemary Clooney and Chorus Girls); [0:46] A Dime and a Dollar (continued by Guy Mitchell); [0:49] Good Intentions (sung by Rosemary Clooney); [0:51] Vaquero! (sung and danced by Chorus); [1:00] Bad News (sung by Rosemary Clooney); [1:02] unidentified instrumental (played by Orchestra, danced by Buddy Ebsen and Chorus Girls); [1:05] Brave Man (sung by Rosemary Clooney); [1:11] Meet a Happy Guy (sung by Guy Mitchell, danced by Mitchell and Pat Crowley); [1:14] This Is Greater Than I Thought (sung and danced by Joanne Gilbert); [1:29] Finale (reprisal of all major songs by principals)

Red Riding Hood
(aka Cannon Movie Tales: Red Riding Hood)
Golan-Globus / Cannon, 1989, Color, 81 minutes, ***

See list of all Cannon Movie Tales

The high-spirited daughter of the village lord and her mother have been living in the forest for seven years near her wise grandmother. They wait for her father to come home, meanwhile, her literally heartless uncle rules. He sells his soul for the aid of an enchanted wolf who turns himself human in order to spy. As the tyranical lord begins to see his niece as a threat, he sends the wolf to deal with her.

An interesting -- and different -- interpretation of the classic fairy tale. The music is nice, but somewhat forgettable, though the number "Never Talk to Strangers" is very nicely performed by Amelia Shankley and Rocco Sisto.

Produced by: Menahem Golan and Yoram Globus
Associate Producer: Patricia Ruben
Executive Producer: Itzik Kol
Director: Adam Brooks
Screenplay by: Carole Lucia Satrina
inspired by the classic fairy tale by The Brothers Grimm
Music by: Stephen Lawrence
Lyrics by: Michael Korie
Production Designer: Marek Dobrowolski
Art Director: Miki Zhahar
Set Decoration: Yuda Ako
Costume Designer: Meira Steinmatz
Directors of Photography: Danny Shneuer, Hilik Ne'eman
Editor: David Tour

Cast: Amelia Shankley [Linet], Isabella Rossellini [Lady Jean], Craig T. Nelson [Godfrey / Percival], Rocco Sisto [Dagger], Helen Elazary [Nanny Bess], Linda Kaye [Badger Kate], Amnon Meskin [Peter], Julian Joy-Chagrin [Allen Owen], Haim Zehavy [1st Guard], Stuart Kingston, Danny Segev, Arie Moscuna [Villagers], Igor Borisov [Bartender], Barbara Allen [Lady in Castle]

Musical Program: [0:06] Lost in the Woods (sung by Amelia Shankley); [0:19] Good at Being Bad (sung by Rocco Sisto); [0:24] You Won't Be Here in the Morning (sung by Isabella Rossellini); [0:38] Green in the Blue (sung and danced by Julian Chagrin and Villagers); [0:44] You Won't Be Here in the Morning (reprised by Craig T. Nelson); [0:46] Man Without a Heart (sung by Craig T. Nelson); [0:58] Never Talk to Strangers (sung and danced by Rocco Sisto and Amelia Shankley); [1:17] Lost in the Woods (Amelia Shankley); [1:19] Never Talk to Strangers (sung by Rocco Sisto and Amelia Shankley behind end credits)

The Red Shoes
Eagle-Lion Films, 1948, Color, 134 minutes
Released September, 1948 (UK)
Released October, 1948 (USA)

A glorious Technicolor epic that influenced generations of filmmakers, artists, and aspiring ballerinas, The Red Shoes intricately weaves backstage life with the thrill of performance. A young ballerina (Moira Shearer) is torn between two forces: the composer who loves her (Marius Goring), and the impresario determined to fashion her into a great dancer (Anton Walbrook).

Producer: Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger
Assistant Producer: George R. Busby
Directors: Michael Powell, Emeric Pressburger
Screenplay: Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger, additional dialogue by Keith Winter and Marius Goring
(based on the story by Hans Christian Andersen)
Original Music: Brian Easdale, Kenny Baker
Production Design: Hein Heckroth
Choreography: Robert Helpmann (The Ballet of The Red Shoes), Léonide Massine (The Shoemaker)
Art Direction: Arthur Lawson
Costumes: Carven, Dorothy Edwards, Hein Heckroth
Cinematography: Jack Cardiff
Editor: Reginald Mills

Cast: Anton Walbrook [Boris Lermontov], Marius Goring [Julian Craster], Moira Shearer [Victoria Page], Robert Helpmann [Ivan Boleslawsky], Leonide Massine [Grischa Ljubov], Albert Bassermann [Sergei Ratov], Ludmilla Tchérina [Irina Boronskaja], Esmond Knight [Livingstone "Livy" Montagne], Jean Short [Terry Tyler], Gordon Littmann [Ike Tanner], Julia Lang [Weirdie, A Balletomane], Bill Shine [Beardie, Weirdie's Companion], Austin Trevor [Professor Andrew Palmer], Eric Berry [Dimitri], Irene Browne [Lady Neston], Jerry Verno [George, the Stagedoor Keeper], Derek Elphinstone [Lord Peter Oldham], Madame Rambert [Herself], Joy Rawlins [Gladys, Vicky's friend], Marcel Poncin [M. Boudin], Michel Bazalgette [M. Rideaut], Yvonne Andre [Vicky's Dresser], Hay Petrie [Boisson], Hilda Gaunt [Accompianist], Alan Carter, Joan Harris [Solo Dancers], Joan Sheldon, Paula Dunning, Brian Ashbridge, Denis Carey, Lynne Dorval, Helen France, Robert Dorning, Eddie Gaillard, Paul Hammond, Tommy Linden, Trisha Linova, Guy Massey, John Regan, Peggy Sager, Ruth Sendler [Dancers]

Musical Program: Ballet of The Red Shoes (Performed by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Conducted by Sir Thomas Beecham, Bart.); Dance music (Performed by Ted Heath's Kenny Baker Swing Group); Aria (Sung by Margherita Grandi); Act 2 Coda (Allegro vivace) from ballet Swan Lake

Rhapsody in Blue
(The Story of George Gershwin)
Warner Bros., 1945, B/W, 139 minutes, ***
Released September, 1945

Good biopic of George Gershwin, loaded with Gershwin music from end to end! Critics often bemoan its (relatively minor) innacuracies, but just remember it's not a documentary - it's a musical! Enjoy the music! Appearances by Al Jolson, Paul Whiteman, Oscar Levant and Hazel Scott.

Produced by: Jesse L. Lasky
Directed by: Irving Rapper
Original Story by: Sonya Levien
Screen Play by: Howard Koch and Elliot Paul
Musical Director: Leo F. Forbstein
Musical Score: George Gershwin
Music and Lyrics by: George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin
Orchestral Arrangements by: Ray Heindorf
Orchestral Arrangements of "Rhapsody in Blue" by Ferde Grofe
"Rhapsody in Blue" Orchestra Conducted by Paul Whiteman
Piano Solo Recordings by: Oscar Levant
Additional Piano Solo Recordings: Ray Turner
"135th Street Blues" Lyrics by Buddy De Sylva
"Swanee" Lyrics by Irving Caesar
"Yankee Doodle Blues" Lyrics by Irving Caesar and B. G. DeSylva
Music Adapted by: Max Steiner
Vocal Arrangements by: Dudley Chambers
Dance Numbers Created and Directed by: LeRoy Prinz
Art Directors: John Hughes and Anton Grot
Set Decorations: Fred M. MacLean
Gowns by: Milo Anderson
Makeup Artist: Perc Westmore
Sound by: David Forrest and Stanley Jones
Director of Photography: Merritt Gerstad and Ernest Haller, Sol Polito
Special Effects by: Roy Davidson, Willard Van Enger
Montages by: James Leicester
Film Editor: Folmer Blangsted

Awards: Academy Award nominations for Best Score (Musical) and Best Sound Recording

Cast: Robert Alda [George Gershwin], Joan Leslie [Julie Adams], Alexis Smith [Christine Gilbert], Charles Coburn [Max Dreyfus], Julie Bishop [Lee Gershwin], Albert Basserman [Professor Frank], Morris Carnovsky [Poppa Gershwin], Rosemary DeCamp [Momma Gershwin], Oscar Levant [Himself], Paul Whiteman [Himself], Al Jolson [Himself], George White [Himself], Hazel Scott [Herself], Anne Brown [Bess], Herbert Rudley [Ira Gershwin], John B. Hughes [Himself], Mickey Roth [George Gershwin as a Boy], Darryl Hickman [Ira Gershwin as a Boy], Charles Halton [Mr. Kast], Andrew Tombes [Mr. Million], Gregory Golubeff [Mr. Katzman], Walter Soderling [Mr. Muscatel], Eddie Marr [Buddy De Sylva], Theodore von Eltz [Foley], Bill Kennedy [Herbert Stone], Oscar Lorraine [Ravel], Johnny Downs [Dancer], Ernest Golm [Otto Kahn], Martin Noble [Jascha Heifetz], Hugo Kirchhoffer [Walter Damrosch], Will Wright [Rachmaninoff], Additional Cast: Tom Patricola [Himself], Robert Shayne [Christine's Escort], Ivan Lebedeff [Guest in Nightclub], George Riley [Comic], Virginia Sale [Cashier], Yola D'Avril [Prima Donna], Claire DuBrey [Receptionist], Christian Rub [Swedish Janitor], Odette Myrtil [Mme. De Breteuil], Jay Novello [Orchestra Leader], Robert Johnson [Sport], William Gillespie [Porgy], Mark Stevens [Singer], Louanne Hogan [singing voice of Joan Leslie]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture: "Rhapsody in Blue" / "Embraceable You" / "I Got Rhythm" (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:14] Smiles (sung by Louanne Hogan dubbing for Joan Leslie); [0:15] Swanee (sung by Robert Alda and Louanne Hogan dubbing for Joan Leslie); [0:26] Swanee (danced by Chorus, sung and whistled by Al Jolson); [0:34] 'S Wonderful (sung by Chorus, danced by Joan Leslie and Chorus); [0:38] Somebody Loves Me (sung and danced by Joan Leslie and Johnny Downs, Louanne Hogan dubbing for Joan Leslie); [0:43] (I'll Build a) Stairway to Paradise / Oh Lady Be Good (medley / montage, sung by Chorus, danced by Joan Leslie and Chorus); [0:44] Blue Monday Blues (aka "135th Street") (sung and danced by Chorus); [0:56] Rhapsody in Blue (played by Orchestra conducted by Paul Whiteman with Ray Turner dubbing for Robert Alda at the piano); [1:10] The Man I Love (played and sung in French and English by Hazel Scott); [1:12] Fascinating Rhythm / I Got Rhythm (played and sung by Hazel Scott); [1:15] Yankee Doodle Blues (sung by Hazel Scott); [1:25] Gershwin Medley (piano duet played by Oscar Levant and Ray Turner dubbing for Robert Alda); [1:26] Bidin' My Time (sung by party guests); [1:29] Embraceable You (sung by Louanne Hogan dubbing for Joan Leslie); [1:38] An American in Paris (excerpt played by Orchestra in background); [1:46] Cuban Overture (exerpt played by Orchestra); [1:48] Mine (sung by Robert Alda and Oscar Levant); [1:53] Delishious (sung by Louanne Hogan dubbing for Joan Leslie); [1:57] Summertime (from "Porgy and Bess", sung and danced by Anne Brown and Chorus); [2:01] Concerto in F (excerpt played by Orchestra); [2:12] Love Walked In (sung by Mark Stevens [?]); [2:14] Concerto in F (excerpt played by Orchestra with Oscar Levant at the piano); [2:18] Rhapsody in Blue (excerpt played by Orchestra with Oscar Levant at the piano); [1:21] Medley of Gershwin tunes played by Orchestra behind end credits; Many other bits and pieces of Gershwin and non-Gershwin tunes scattered throughout the film

Rhythm on the Range
Paramount, 1936, B/W, 88 minutes, ***
Released July, 1936

America's favorite crooner, Bing Crosby, lassoes up love and laughter as big as the great outdoors when he stars as Jeff Larrabee, a champion rodeo rider heading back West after performing in New York. On the train ride home he discovers a runaway heiress hiding out in his boxcar. Seems gorgeous Doris Halloway (Frances Farmer) is fed up with big city wolves and hankers for romance with a real-life cowboy.

This sweet, swingin' tale is loaded with down-home humor, range-rousing songs (including "I'm an Old Cowhand" from newcomer Johnny Mercer) and many memorable firsts including a peek at the yet unknown Roy Rogers (seen strumming his guitar in the band) and the screen debut of Martha Raye. So saddle up and sit back for a story that will keep your toes tapping on the happy trails ahead.  [from back of DVD case]

Adolph Zukor Presents
Produced by: Benjamin Glazer
Directed by: Norman Taurog
Screen Play by: John C. Moffitt and Sidney Salkow, Walter DeLeon and Francis Martin
Based on a Story by Mervin J. Houser
Musical Direction: Boris Morros
Lyrics and Music by: Leo Robin, Sam Coslow, Frederick Hollander, Richard A. Whiting, Ralph Rainger
"Empty Saddles" by Billy Hill and J. Keirn Brennan
"I'm an Old Cowhand From the Rio Grande" lyrics and music by Johnny Mercer
Art Direction by: Hans Dreier and Robert Usher
Interior Decorations by: A. E. Freudeman
Costumes Designed by: Edith Head
Sound Recording: Gene Merritt and Don Johnson
Photographed by: Karl Struss
Edited by: Ellsworth Hoagland

Cast: Bing Crosby [Jeff Larrabee], Frances Farmer [Doris Halloway], Bob Burns [Buck], Martha Raye [Emma], Samuel S. Hinds [Robert Halloway], Warren Hymer [Big Brain], Lucille Webster Gleason [Penelope Ryland], George E. Stone [Shorty], James Burke [Wabash], Martha Sleeper [Constance Hyde], Clem Bevans [Gila Bend, Cowboy], Leonid Kinskey [Mischa, Cowboy], Charles Williams [Gopher, Cowboy], Beau Baldwin, 50th ["Cuddles," the bull], Additional Cast: Emmett Vogan [Clerk], Dennis O'Keefe [Heckler], Duke York [Officer], James Blaine [Conductor], Herbert Ashley [Brakeman], James "Slim" Thompson [Porter], Jim Toney [Oil Station Proprietor], Syd Saylor [Gus], Sam McDaniel [Porter], Harry C. Bradley [Minister], Charles Arnt [Steward], Oscar Smith [Waiter], Bob McKenzie [Farmer], Heinie Conklin [Driver], Frank Dawson [Butler], Otto Yamaoka [Chinese Houseboy], Irving Bacon [Announcer], Eddy Waller [Field Judge], Sons of the Pioneers [Themselves], Louis Prima [Himself]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (includes segment of "I'm an Old Cowhand From the Rio Grande," played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:16] Empty Saddles (sung by Bing Crosby at rodeo, partly accompanied by off-screen Chorus); [0:33] Roundup Lullaby (sung by Bing Crosby); [0:52] I Can't Escape from You (sung by Bing Crosby); [1:11] (If You Can't Sing It) You'll Have to Swing It (Mr. Paganini) (sung by Martha Raye); [1:15] Drink It Down (sung by Leonid Kinskey and Ensemble, joined by Bing Crosby); [1:18] I'm an Old Cowhand (From the Rio Grande) (sung by Bing Crosby and Martha Raye and Ensemble with The Sons of the Pioneers); [1:22] Wing Ding (played by The Sons of the Pioneers, including Leonard Slye who was later to become known as Roy Rogers)

Rhythm on the River
Paramount, 1940, B/W, 94 minutes, ***
Released August, 1940

Bing Crosby and Mary Martin make a delightful discovery in this tuneful tale of star-crossed melodymakers who step out from the shadows in the hopes of making it big.

Basil Rathbone plays Oliver Courtney, a well-known composer of hit songs who is very much in demand by the folks who produce musical shows. But beneath the gloss of a well-polished performance lies the truth about Oliver's talent - it's the work of ghostwriters! Bob Summers (Crosby) writes the tunes and Cherry Lane (Martin) writes the lyrics, only neither knows the other exists and both believe they are collaborating with Oliver. When the two meet at a musical retreat, they discover they have a lot more in common than they ever imagined and decide they'd like to go out on their own together. But the road to fame is rough and they wind up needing help from the one person who has the least interest in making their names known to the world of music - Oliver. Rhythm on the River is full of life, laughter and love. Songs include "Only Forever," "Ain't It a Shame About Mame," "Moon Over Madison Square" and "That's for Me."   [from back of DVD case]

Produced by: William LeBaron
Directed by: Victor Schertzinger
Screen Play by: Dwight Taylor
Based on a Story by: Billy Wilder and Jacques Thery
Musical Direction: Victor Young
Musical Adviser: Arthur Franklin
Songs: Lyrics by Johnny Burke, Music by James V. Monaco
"I Don't Want to Cry Any More" by Victor Schertzinger
Songs Arranged and Conducted by: John Scott Trotter
Art Direction: Hans Dreier, Ernst Fegté
Costumes: Edith Head
Sound Recording: Earl Hayman, Richard Olson
Director of Photography: Ted Tetzlaff
Editor: Hugh Bennett

Awards: Academy Award nomination for Best Song ("Only Forever")

Cast: Bing Crosby [Bob Summers], Mary Martin [Cherry Lane], Basil Rathbone [Oliver Courtney], Oscar Levant [Starbuck], Oscar Shaw [Charlie Goodrich], Charley Grapewin [Uncle Caleb], Lillian Cornell [Millie Starling], William Frawley [Westlake], Jeanne Cagney [Country Cousin], Helen Bertram [Aunt Delia], John Scott Trotter [Orchestra Leader], Ken Carpenter [Teddy Gardner, Announcer], Charles Lane [Bernard Schwartz], Harry Barris [Bass Player], Wingy Manone and His Band, Additional Cast: Phyllis Kennedy [Patsy Flick], Wingy Manone [Woody], Brandon Hurst [Bates], Pierre Watkin [Uncle], Billy Benedict [Elevator Boy], Christian Rub [Pawnbroker]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:01] Conga (played by small orchestra, danced by party guests); [0:04] What Would Shakespeare Have Said (sung by Bing Crosby with Oscar Levant at the piano); [0:05] What Would Shakespeare Have Said (sung by Lillian Cornell); [0:20] That's for Me (sung by Mary Martin with Oscar Levant at the piano); [0:24] Tiger Rag (excerpt played by Wingy Manone and His Band); [0:42] Only Forever (sung by Bing Crosby); [0:45] That's for Me (excerpt sung by Bing Crosby); [0:52] When the Moon Comes Over Madison Square (The Love Lament of a Western Gent) (sung by Bing Crosby); [1:02] Rhythm on the River (played by Wingy Manone and His Band, sung by Bing Crosby); [1:08] Ain't It a Shame About Mame (sung by Mary Martin with Wingy Manone and His Band); [1:16] I Don't Want to Cry Any More (sung by Mary Martin); [1:32] Only Forever (sung by Mary Martin and Bing Crosby with the John Scott Trotter Orchestra)

Rich, Young and Pretty
MGM, 1951, Color, 95 minutes, ***
Released July, 1951

Elizabeth Rogers (Jane Powell) is rich, young and very, very pretty!! She's rich because she lives with her Texan tycoon father (Wendell Corey), who has been estranged from his wife since Elizabeth was a baby. A business trip takes daddy to Paris, and Elizabeth goes along, only to fall in love with Andre Milan (Vic Damone) and to discover that the nightclub singer she so admires (Danielle Darrieux) is her mother! Song-filled comedy features several numbers by Darrieux and Lamas. Other musical highlights include "Wonder Why," "We Never Talk Much" and "How Do You Like Your Eggs in the Morning."

Produced by: Joe Pasternak
Directed by: Norman Taurog
Screen Play by: Dorothy Cooper and Sidney Sheldon
Story by: Dorothy Cooper
Musical Direction: David Rose
Musical Score: David Rose
Songs: Lyrics by Sammy Cahn, Music by Nickolaus Brodszky
Musical Numbers Staged by: Nick Castle
Art Directors: Cedric Gibbons and Arthur Lonergan
Set Decorations: Edwin B. Willis
Associate: Jack D. Moore
Women's Costumes: Helen Rose
Hair Styles Designed by: Sydney Guilaroff
Make-Up Created by: William Tuttle
Recording Supervisor: Douglas Shearer
Special Effects: Warren Newcombe
Montage Sequence by: Peter Ballbusch
Director of Photography: Robert Planck
Color by Technicolor
Technicolor Color Consultants: Henri Jaffa, James Gooch
Film Editor: Gene Ruggiero

Awards: Nominated for Best Song Academy Award ("Wonder Why")

Cast: Jane Powell [Elizabeth Rogers], Danielle Darrieux [Marie Devarone], Wendell Corey [Jim Stauton Rogers], Vic Damone [Andre Milan], Fernando Lamas [Paul Sarnac], Marcel Dalio [Claude Duval], Una Merkel [Glynnie], Richard Anderson [Bob Lennart], Jean Murat [Henri Milan], Duci de Kerekjarto [Gypsy Leader], Hans Conried [Jean, the Maitre D'], George Tatar & Katrin Tatar [Hungarian Dancers], Monique Chantal [Maid], Bess Flowers [Extra at Le Parisien], The Four Freshmen [Four Musicians]

Musical Program: [0:06] Paris (sung by Jane Powell with a little help from Wendell Corey); [0:10] Hungarian Rhapsody (danced by George and Katrin Tatar); [0:12] Deep in the Heart of Texas / Mademoiselle from Armentieres (played by string quartet, sung by Wendell Corey, Jane Powell and Ensemble); [0:16] L'Amour Toujours (Tonight for Sure) (sung and danced by Danielle Darrieux and Mens Chorus); [0:22] There's Danger in Your Eyes, Cherie (sung by Danielle Darrieux); [0:31] Wonder Why (sung by Vic Damone); [0:36] I Can See You (sung by Jane Powell and Vic Damone); [0:43] Paris (sung by Fernando Lamas); [0:45] We Never Talk Much (We Just Sit Around) (sung by Danielle Darrieux and Fernando Lamas); [0:51] Wonder Why (sung by Vic Damone and Jane Powell while dancing); [1:00] We Never Talk Much (We Just Sit Around) (sung by Jane Powell and Vic Damone); [1:05] Dark Is the Night (C'est fini) (sung by Danielle Darrieux); [1:14] The Old Piano Roll Blues (sung by Jane Powell, Vic Damone and Fernando Lamas); [1:17] How Do You Like Your Eggs in the Morning? (sung by Vic Damone and Jane Powell with The Four Freshmen); [1:33] Paris (reprised by Danielle Darrieux and Company)

Riding High
(aka Frank Capra's Riding High)
Paramount, 1950, B/W, 112 minutes, ***½
Released April, 1950

Broadway Bill? "He's the mostest horse we ever did have!" says his handler. He's a lot of movie, too. So much that in 1950, Frank Capra teamed with stars Bing Crosby and Coleen Gray for Riding High, a lively remake of Capra's 1934 gem, Broadway Bill.

Der Bingle's fondness for the racetrack is evident throughout this story of a man who abandons the mansion for the stable. And the songs attest to the film's unbridled spirit. There's no need for an address, three square meals a day or luck when you can stay "Someplace on Anywhere Road," bake a "Sunshine Cake" or bet the nest egg on "What the Horse Told Me." Many of the 1934 stars reprise their roles here, and Oliver Hardy (minus sidekick Stan Laurel) has a memorable bit as a railbird desperate for a winner.  [from back of DVD case]

Produced and Directed by: Frank Capra
Assistant Director: Arthur Black
Screenplay by: Robert Riskin
Additional Dialogue by: Melville Shavelson and Jack Rose
Based on a story by Mark Hellinger ("Broadway Bill")
Vocal Arrangements: Joseph J. Lilley
Music Associate: Troy Sanders
Music Direction: Victor Young
New Songs: Lyrics by Johnny Burke, Music by James Van Heusen
Art Direction: Hans Dreier and Walter Tyler
Set Decoration: Emile Kuri
Costumes: Edith Head
Makeup Supervision: Wally Westmore
Sound Recording: Hugo Grenzbach and John Cope
Directors of Photography: George Barnes, Ernest Laszlo
Process Photography: Farciot Edouart
Edited by: William Hornbeck

Cast: Bing Crosby [Dan Brooks], Coleen Gray [Alice Higgins], Charles Bickford [J. L. Higgins], Frances Gifford [Margaret Higgins], William Demarest [Happy], Raymond Walburn [Prof. Pettigrew], James Gleason [Racing Secretary], Ward Bond [Lee], Clarence Muse [Whitey], Percy Kilbride [Pop Jones], Harry Davenport [Johnson], Margaret Hamilton [Edna], Paul Harvey [Whitehall], Douglass Dumbrille [Eddie Howard], Gene Lockhart [J. P. Chase], Marjorie Hoshelle [Mathilda Early], Rand Brooks [Henry Early], Willard Waterman [Arthur Winslow], Marjorie Lord [Mary Winslow], Irving Bacon [Hamburger Man], Joe Frisco [Himself]
Frankie Darro [Jockey Williams], Charles Lane [Erickson], Dub Taylor [Joe], Additional Cast: Max Baer [Bertie], Oliver Hardy [Horse Player]

Musical Program: [0:00] Camptown Races (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:07] (We've Got A) Sure Thing (excerpt sung by Bing Crosby); [0:21] Someplace on Anywhere Road (sung by Bing Crosby and Clarence Muse); [0:38] The Whiffenpoof Song (sung by Bing Crosby, Raymond Walburn, William Demarest and club patrons); [0:54] Sunshine Cake (sung by Bing Crosby, Clarence Muse and Coleen Gray - cute number!); [1:19] The Horse Told Me (sung by Bing Crosby and Ensemble); [1:31] Camptown Races (Bing Crosby, Clarence Muse, Coleen Gray and Chorus)

Rio Rita
MGM, 1942, B/W, 91 minutes, ***
Released April, 1942

Bud and Lou uncover a Nazi plot to brainwash the American people with secret radios disguised as apples. Better than average crazy antics by Abbott & Costello. Musical highlights include several numbers sung by lovely Kathryn Grayson (in her third feature film) and the beautiful Brazilian Dance.

Produced by: Pandro S. Berman
Directed by: S. Sylvan Simon
Screen Play by: Richard Connell and Gladys Lehman
Special Material for Abbott and Costello by: John Grant
Musical Direction: Herbert Stothart
Songs: "Rio Rita," "The Ranger's Song" by Harry Tierney and Joseph McCarthy;
"Long Before You Came Along" by E.Y. Harburg and Harold Arlen
Vocals and Orchestration: Murray Cutter, Leo Arnaud, Paul Marquardt
Choreography: Bobby Connolly, Vincente Minnelli and David Robel
Art Director: Cedric Gibbons
Associate: Eddie Imazu
Set Decorations: Edwin B. Willis
Gowns by: Kalloch
Men's Wardrobe by: Gile Steele
Recording Director: Douglas Shearer
Special Effects: Warren Newcombe
Director of Photography: George Folsey
Film Editor: Ben Lewis

Cast: Bud Abbott [Doc], Lou Costello [Wishy], Kathryn Grayson [Rita Winslow], John Carroll [Ricardo Montera], Patricia Dane [Lucille Brunswick], Tom Conway [Maurice Craindall], Peter Whitney [Jake], Arthur Space [Trask], Joan Valerie [Dotty], Dick Rich [Gus], Barry Nelson [Harry Gantley], Eva Puig [Marianna], Mitchell Lewis [Julio], Eros Volusia [Dancer], Julian Rivero [Mexican Gentleman], Douglass Newland [Control Man], Lee Murray [Little Mexican], Inez Cooper [Pulque], Frank Perry [Chef]

Musical Program: [0:17] Long Before You Came Along (sung by Kathryn Grayson and John Carroll); [0:21] The Ranger's Song (sung by Kathryn Grayson, John Carroll and Chorus); [0:47] Rio Rita (sung by John Carroll); [0:54] Brazilian Dance (instrumental danced by Eros Volusia and Ensemble); [1:04] Ombres Légères ("Shadow Song" from the opera DINORAH, sung by Kathryn Grayson)

River of No Return
20th Century-Fox, 1954, Color, 91 minutes, ***
Released April, 1954

The title river unites a farmer recently released from prison, his young son, and an ambitious saloon singer. In order to survive, each must be purged of anger, and each must learn to understand and care for the others.

Marilyn Monroe - The Diamond Collection II DVD Box Set (shown right) contains this film and Don't Bother to Knock, Let's Make Love, Monkey Business and Niagara.

Marilyn Monroe Special Anniversary Collection DVD Box Set (shown right) contains this film and Seven Year Itch, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, Niagara, Let's Make Love and Marilyn: The Final Days.

Produced by: Stanley Rubin
Directed by: Otto Preminger
Screenplay: Frank Fenton (from a story by Louis Lantz)
Music: Cyril J. Mockridge
Musical Direction: Lionel Newman
Director of Photography: Joseph La Shelle
Art Direction: Lyle Wheeler, Addison Hehr
Set Decorations: Walter M. Scott, Chester Bayhi
Special Photographic Effects: Ray Kellogg
Film Editor: Louis Loeffler
Wardrobe Direction: Charles LeMaire
Costumes Designed by: Travilla
Vocal Direction: Ken Darby
Songs: Lyrics by Ken Darby, Music by Lionel Newman
Orchestration: Edward B. Powell
Choreography: Jack Cole
Makeup Artist: Ben Nye
Sound: Bernard Freericks, Roger Heman
Assistant Director: Paul Helmick
Technical Color Consultant: Leonard Doss
Cinemascope Lenses By: Bausch & Lomb

Cast: Robert Mitchum [Matt Calder], Marilyn Monroe [Kay Weston], Rory Calhoun [Harry Weston, Gambler], Tommy Rettig [Mark Calder], Murvyn Vye [Dave Colby, Prospector], Douglas Spencer [Sam Benson, Prospector], Paul Newlan [Prospector], Arthur Shields [Minister at Tent City], Don Beddoe [Ben, Council City Shopkeeper], Edmund Cobb [Town Barber], Ralph Sanford [Bartender], Fred Aldrich, Harry Wilson [Barflies at Camp Saloon], Harry Seymour [Piano Player], Geneva Gray, Ann McCrea [Dance Hall Girls], Barbara Nichols [Blonde Dancer], Jarma Lewis [Saloon Dancer], Fay Morley [Dancer], John Cliff [Leering Man], John Doucette [Man in Saloon], Jack Mather [Dealer at Card Table], Ed Hinton [Gambler], Will Wright [Trader], John Veitch, Hal Baylor, Mitchell Lawrence, Larry Chance [Young Punks]

Musical Program: [0:01] River of No Return (sung by Tennessee Ernie Ford and Chorus behind titles); [0:05] One Silver Dollar (sung by Marilyn Monroe in tent city saloon); [0:11] I'm Gonna File My Claim (sung by Marilyn Monroe in tent city saloon); [0:26] Down in the Meadow (sung by Marilyn Monroe at Matt Calder's cabin); [0:40] Down in the Meadow (reprised by Marilyn Monroe at camp site); [1:27] The River of No Return (sung by Marilyn Monroe and Men's Chorus in saloon at Council City); [1:30] The River of No Return (finale reprise sung by Tennessee Ernie Ford and Chorus)

Road to Bali
Paramount, 1952, Color, 90 minutes, ***
Released November, 1952

This episode of the "Road" series finds Hope and Crosby working as Vaudevilians in Australia. The local men run them both out of town for chasing their daughters. Desparate, they get work as divers on a small island where Dorothy Lamour lives. Lots of cameos, including Jane Russell, Humphrey Bogart and Katherine Hepburn. This was the only "Road" episode filmed in color.

Produced by: Harry Tugend
Directed by: Hal Walker
Assistant Director: John Coonan
Screenplay by: Frank Butler, Hal Kanter and William Morrow
Story by: Frank Butler and Harry Tugend
Music Direction: Joseph J. Lilley
New Songs: Lyrics by Johnny Burke, music by James Van Heusen
Musical Numbers Staged by: Charles O'Curran
Special Orchestral Arrangements: Van Cleave
Art Direction: Hal Pereira and Joseph MacMillan Johnson
Set Decoration: Sam Comer and Ross Dowd
Costumes: Edith Head
Makeup Supervision: Wally Westmore
Sound Recording by: Gene Merritt and John Cope
Director of Photography: George Barnes
Special Photographic Effects: Gordon Jennings and Paul Lerpae
Process Photography: Farciot Edouart
Color by Technicolor
Technicolor Color Consultant: Monroe W. Burbank
Edited by: Archie Marshek

Cast: Bob Hope [Harold Gridley], Bing Crosby [George Cochran], Dorothy Lamour [Lalah], Murvyn Vye [Ken Arok], Peter Coe [Gung], Ralph Moody [Bhoma Da], Leon Askin [Ramayana], Jack Claus [Specialty Dancer], Dean Martin [Himself], Jerry Lewis [Himself], Jane Russell [Herself], Bob Crosby [Himelf], Katharine Hepburn [Herself], Humphrey Bogart [Himself], Bernie Gozier [Bo Kassar], Herman Cantor [Priest], Shela Fritz, Ethel K. Reiman, Irene K. Silva [Chief's Wives], Mylee Haulani [Beautiful Girl in Basket], Kukhie Kuhns [Fat Woman in Basket], Kuka Tuitama, Al Kikume, Charles Mauu, Satini Puailoa [Warriors], Michael Ansara [Guard], Larry Chance [Attendant], Bunny Lewbel [Lalah at age 7], Patricia Dane [Handmaiden], Sue Casey, Patti McKaye, Judy Landon, Leslie Charles, Jean Corbett, Betty Onge [Handmaidens], Roy Gordon [Eunice's Father], Harry Cording [Verna's Father], Carolyn Jones [Eunice], Jan Kayne [Verna], Allan Nixon [Eunice's Brother], Douglas Yorke [Verna's Brother], Luukia Luana, Raymond Lee [Boys], Mary Kanae [Old Crone], Bismark Auelua, Bhogwan Singh, Chanan Singh Sohi, Jerry Groves [Lower Priests], Richard Keene [Conductor], Donald Lawton [Employment Agency Clerk]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture with singing credits played by Orchestra, sung by Chorus behind titles); [0:02] Chicago Style (sung and danced by Bob Hope and Bing Crosby); [0:14] Moonflowers (sung by Dorothy Lamour with Chorus); [0:22] Hoot Mon (sung and danced by Bob Hope and Bing Crosby in Scottish Kilts); [0:45] To See You (sung by Bing Crosby); [1:00] The Merry-Go-Runaround (sung by Bob Hope, joined by Bing Crosby and Doroth Lamour); [1:06] Moonflowers (reprised by Dorothy Lamour); There are a number of Bali native dances, which may have been accompanied by Chorale for Brass, Piano and Bongo (instrumental by Stan Kenton and Pete Rugolo).

The Road to Hong Kong
Melnor Films / United Artists, 1962, B/W, 92 minutes, ***
Released May, 1962

The final entry in the "Road" series, this entry was made in England - the only one of the series not made by Paramount. This one finds Bing and Bob as vaudevillians again, but this time they flee to India and try to sell their "Fly-It-Yourself" space kit for interplanetary travel. Peter Sellers makes an uproarious appearance as an Indian Doctor.

Produced by: Melvin Frank
Production Supervisor: Bill Kirby
Directed by: Norman Panama
Assistant Director: Bluey Hill
Written by: Norman Panama and Melvin Frank
Music Composed and Conducted by: Robert Farnon
Musical Associates: Bill McGuffie, Dough Gamley
Songs by: Sammy Cahn and Jimmy Van Heusen
Musical Numbers Staged by: Jack Baker and Sheila Meyers
Production Designed by: Roger Furse
Art Direction: Sydney Cain, Bill Hutchinson
Set Decoration: Maurice Fowler
Costume Designer: Anthony Mendleson
Make-Up: Dave Aylott
Hairdressing: Joan White
Sound: A. G. Ambler, Bob Jones
Special Effects: Wally Veevers, Ted Samuels
Director of Photography: Jack Hildyard
Editorial Supervision: Alan Osbiston
Editor: John Victor Smith

Cast: Bing Crosby [Harry Turner], Bob Hope [Chester Babcock], Joan Collins [Diane], Dorothy Lamour [Herself], Robert Morley [The Leader], Walter Gotell [Dr. Zorbb], Roger Delgado [Jhinnah], Felix Aylmer [Grand Lama], Peter Madden [Lama], Alan Gifford, Robert Ayres, Robin Hughes [American Officials], Julian Sherrier [Doctor], Bill Nagy [Agent], Guy Standeven [Photographer], John McCarthy [Messenger], Simon Levy [Servant], Mei Ling [Chinese Girl], Jacqueline Jones [Lady at Airport], Katya Douglas [Receptionist], Harry Baird, Irvin Allen [Nubian], Victor Brooks, Roy Patrick, John Dearth, David Randall, Michael Wynne [Leader's Men], Yvonne Shima, Camilla Brockman, Lena Margot, Sheree Winton, Edwina Carroll, Diane Valentine, April Ashley, Jacqueline Leigh, Sein Short, Lier Hwang, Michele Mok, Zoe Zephyr [Girls]
Guest Stars: Peter Sellers, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, David Niven, Zsa Zsa Gabor, Dave King, Jerry Colonna

Musical Program: [0:00] Team Work (sung and danced by Bing Crosby and Bob Hope before titles); [0:34] The Road to Hong Kong (sung by Bing Crosby and Bob Hope); [0:59] Let's Not Be Sensible (sung by Bing Crosby and Joan Collins); [1:19] Warmer Than a Whisper (sung by Dorothy Lamour); [1:28] Team Work (sung and danced by Bing Crosby, Bob Hope and Joan Collins)

Road to Morocco
Paramount, 1942, B/W, 83 minutes, ***
Released November, 1942

Shipwreck survivors Bob Hope and Bing Crosby wind up on the Mediterranean coast and take a camel ride into a comedic Arabian Nights-style adventure, as the pair wind up fighting with desert warrior Anthony Quinn for princess Dorothy Lamour. Among the songs featured is the Crosby standard "Moonlight Becomes You."

Associate Producer: Paul Jones
Directed by: David Butler
Original Screen Play: Frank Butler and Don Hartman
Music Direction: Victor Young
Music Adviser: Arthur Franklin
Songs: Lyrics by Johnny Burke, Music by James Van Heusen
Dances Staged by: Paul Oscard
Art Direction: Hans Dreier and Robert Usher
Costumes: Edith Head
Makeup Artist: Wally Westmore
Sound Recording by: Earl Hayman and Walter Oberst
Director of Photography: William C. Mellor
Special Photographic Effects: Gordon Jennings
Process Photography: Farciot Edouart
Edited by: Irene Morra

Awards: Academy Award nominations for Best Sound Recording and Best Original Screenplay

Cast: Bing Crosby [Jeff Peters], Bob Hope [Turkey Jackson], Dorothy Lamour [Princess Shalmar], Anthony Quinn [Mullay Kasim], Dona Drake [Mihirmah], Mikhail Rasumny [Ahmed Fey], Vladimir Sokoloff [Hyder Khan], George Givot [Neb Jolla], Andrew Tombes [Oso Bucco], Leon Belasco [Yusef], Monte Blue, Jamiel Hasson [Aides to Mullay Kasim], Louise La Planche, Theo de Voe, Brooke Evans, Suzanne Ridgway, Yvonne De Carlo, Patsy Mace, Poppy Wilde [Handmaidens], George Lloyd, Sammy Stein [Guards], Ralph Penney [Arabian Waiter], Dan Seymour [Arabian Buyer], Peter Katchenaro [Philippine Announcer], Brandon Hurst [English Announcer], Richard Loo [Chinese Announcer], Leo Mostovoy [Russian Announcer], Victor Groves, Joe Jewett [Knife Dancers], Michael Mark [Arab Pottery Vendor], Nestor Paiva [Arab Sausage Vendor], Cy Kendall [Fruit Stand Proprietor], Stanley Price [Idiot], Robert Barron [Gigantic Bearded Arab], Rita Christiani [Specialty Dancer], Edward Emerson [Bystander], Sylvia Opert [Dancer], Blue Washington [Nubian Slave], Harry Cording, Dick Botiller [Warriors], Sara Berner [Voice of Female Camel], Kent Rogers [Voice of Male Camel]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:08] The Road to Morocco (sung by Bing Crosby and Bob Hope); [0:21] Ain't Got a Dime to My Name (Ho Ho Hum) (sung by Bing Crosby); [0:24] Constantly (sung by Dorothy Lamour); [0:34] Moonlight Becomes You (sung by Bing Crosby); [1:02] Moonlight Becomes You (sung by Dorothy Lamour, Bob Hope and Bing Crosby)

Road to Rio
Paramount, 1947, B/W, 83 minutes, ***
Released December, 1947

Musicians Bob Hope and Bing Crosby stow away on a boat to Brazil and try to free Dorothy Lamour from hypnotic aunt Gale Sondergaard in the fifth "Road" comedy. With special guests The Andrews Sisters, Frank Faylen, Jerry Colonna, Tor Johnson and the Wiere Brothers.

Produced by: Daniel Dare
Directed by: Norman Z. McLeod
Assistant Director: Oscar Rudolph
Original Story and Screenplay by: Edmund Beloin and Jack Rose
Musical Direction: Robert Emmett Dolan
Vocal Arrangements: Joseph J. Lilley
Music Associate: Troy Sanders
New Songs: Lyrics by Johnny Burke, Music by James Van Heusen
Dances Staged by: Bernard Pearce and Billy Daniels
Art Direction: Hans Dreier and Earl Hedrick
Set Decoration: Sam Comer and Ray Moyer
Costumes: Edith Head
Makeup Supervision: Wally Westmore
Sound Recording by: Harold Lewis and Walter Oberst
Special Photographic Effects: Gordon Jennings and Paul Lerpae
Process Photography: Farciot Edouart
Director of Photography: Ernest Laszlo
Edited by: Ellsworth Hoagland

Awards: Academy Award Nomination for Best Score (Musical)

Cast: Bing Crosby [Scat Sweeney], Bob Hope [Hot Lips Barton], Dorothy Lamour [Lucia Maria De Andrade], Gale Sondergaard [Catherine Vail], Frank Faylen [Trigger], Joseph Vitale [Tony], Frank Puglia [Rodrigues], Nestor Paiva [Cardoso], Robert Barrat [Johnson], Jerry Colonna [Cavalry Captain], The Wiere Brothers [Musicians], The Andrews Sisters [Themselves], Carioca Boys [Themselves], Stone-Baron Puppeteers [Themselves], George Meeker [Sherman Malley], Stanley Andrews [Captain Harmon], Harry Woods [Purser], Stanley Blystone [Assistant Purser], Alan Bridge [Ship's Officer], Donald Kerr [Steward], Tor Johnson [Samson], George Sorel [Prefeito], John "Skins" Miller [Dancer], Arthur Q. Bryan [Mr. Stanton], Babe London [Woman], Gino Corrado [Barber], George Chandler [Valet], Paul "Tiny" Newlan [Butcher], George Lloyd [Butcher], Fred Zendar [Stevedore], Ralph Gomez [Roustabout], Duke York, Frank Hagney [Roustabouts], Pepito Perez [Dignified Gentleman], Ralph Dunn [Foreman], Ray Teal [Buck], Brandon Hurst [Barker], Barbara Pratt [Airline Hostess], Tad Van Brunt [Pilot], Patsy O'Byrne [Charwoman], Raul Roulien [Cavalry Officer], Charles Middleton [Farmer], Albert Ruiz, Laura Corbay [Specialty Dancers]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:04] Apalachicola, FLA (includes excerpts of Old Folks at Home / Carry Me Back to Old Virginny) (sung and danced by Bob Hope and Bing Crosby); [0:25] But Beautiful (sung by Bing Crosby); [0:39] You Don't Have to Know the Language (sung by Bing Crosby and the Andrews Sisters); [0:53] unidentified instrumental (played by The Wiere Brothers); [0:58] Diz Que Tem (?) (sung by unidentified singer at hotel); [1:03] Experience (sung by Dorothy Lamour); [1:26] unidentified instrumental (played at party); [1:31] Batuque Nio Morro (sung and danced by The Wiere Brothers, danced by Albert Ruiz, Laura Corbay, Bob Hope and Bing Crosby)

Road to Singapore
Paramount, 1940, B/W, 84 minutes, ***
Released March, 1940

At first planned as a vehicle for Fred MacMurray and Jack Oakie, this light-hearted adventure featured the first screen pairing of Bing Crosby and Bob Hope, and the result was movie history. The two are Americans bumming their way around the world who settle down in Asia and almost immediately begin feuding for the hand of Dorothy Lamour. With Anthony Quinn and Charles Coburn.

Produced by: Harlan Thompson
Directed by: Victor Schertzinger
Screen Play by: Don Hartman and Frank Butler
Based on a Story by Harry Hervey
Musical Direction by: Victor Young
Songs: "Too Romantic," "Sweet Potato Piper," "Kaigoon" Lyrics by Johnny Burke, Music by James V. Monaco; "The Moon and the Willow Tree," "Captain Custard" Lyrics by Johnny Burke, Music by Victor Schertzinger
Dances Staged by: LeRoy Prinz
Art Direction: Hans Dreier, Robert Odell
Interior Decorations by: A. E. Freudeman
Costumes: Edith Head
Sound Recording by: Earl Hayman and John Cope
Special Effects: Farciot Edouart
Director of Photography: William C. Mellor
Process Photography by: Farciot Edouart
Editor: Paul Weatherwax

Cast: Bing Crosby [Josh Mallon], Dorothy Lamour [Mima], Bob Hope [Ace Lannigan], Charles Coburn [Joshua Mallon IV], Judith Barrett [Gloria Wycott], Anthony Quinn [Caesar], Jerry Colonna [Achilles Bombanassa], Johnny Arthur [Timothy Willow], Pierre Watkin [Morgan Wycott], Gaylord "Steve" Pendleton [Gordon Wycott], Miles Mander [Sir Malcolm Drake], Pedro Regas [Zato], Greta Granstedt [Babe], Edward Gargan [Bill], Don Brodie [Fred], John Kelly [Sailor], Kitty Kelly [Sailor's Wife], Roger Gray [Father], Harry C. Bradley [Secretary], Richard Keene [Cameraman], Gloria Franklin [Ninky Poo], Carmen D'Antonio [Dancing Girl], Monte Blue [High Priest], Cyril Ring [Ship's Officer], Helen Lynd [Society Girl], Paula DeCardo [Native Dancing Girl], Benny Inocencio [Native Boy], Jack Pepper [Columnist], Arthur Q. Bryan [Bartender], Robert Emmett O'Connor [Immigration Officer], Belle Mitchell [Shopkeeper], Fred Malatesta, Robert St. Angelo [Native Policemen], Marguerita Padula [Proprietress], Bobby Barber [Dumb-Looking Little Man], Claire James [Girl at Party], Grace Hayle [Chaperone], Richard Tucker [Ship's Officer], Elvia Allman [Homely Girl]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:14] Captain Custard (sung by Bob Hope and Bing Crosby); [0:22] Whip dance (performed by Dorothy Lamour and Anthony Quinn); [0:28] The Moon and the Willow Tree (sung by Dorothy Lamour); [0:35] Sweet Potato Piper (sung by Bing Crosby, danced by Bing Crosby and Bob Hope); [0:41] Carry Me Back to Old Virginny (comical rendition sung by Jerry Colonna); [0:54] Too Romantic (sung by Bing Crosby and Dorothy Lamour); [1:03] Kaigoon (production number sung and danced by Chorus); [1:16] Too Romantic (sung by Bing Crosby)

Road to Utopia
Paramount, 1946, B/W, 90 minutes, ***
Premiere release February, 1946
General release March, 1946

Hope and Crosby lead the rush for gold and laughs in the fourth "Road" howler, playing song-and-dance men searching for a lost mine in the Alaskan wilderness. Perennial co-star Dorothy Lamour joins the boys, along with Douglass Dumbrille and narrator Robert Benchley; look for a cameo by Jim Thorpe.

Produced by: Paul Jones
Directed by: Hal Walker
Original Screenplay by: Norman Panama and Melvin Frank
Musical Numbers Conducted by: Robert Emmett Dolan
Music Score: Leigh Harline
Vocal Arrangements: Joseph J. Lilley
Songs: Lyrics by Johnny Burke, Music by James Van Heusen
Dances Staged by: Danny Dare
Art Direction: Hans Dreier and Roland Anderson
Set Decoration: George Sawley
Costumes: Edith Head
Sound Recording by: Hugo Grenzbach and Philip Wisdom
Director of Photography: Lionel Lindon
Special Photographic Effects: Farciot Edouart
Process Photography: Farciot Edouart
Animations: Jerry Fairbanks
Editorial Supervision: Stuart Gilmore

Awards: Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay (Norman Panama and Melvin Frank)

Cast: Bing Crosby [Duke Johnson / Junior Hooton], Bob Hope [Chester Hooton], Dorothy Lamour [Sal Van Hoyden], Hillary Brooke [Kate], Douglas Dumbrille [Ace Larson], Jack LaRue [LeBec], Robert Barrat [Sperry], Nestor Paiva [McGurk], Additional Cast: Robert Benchley [Narrator], Will Wright [Mr. Latimer], Jimmie Dundee [Ringleader of Henchmen], Jim Thorpe [Passenger], Billy Benedict [Newsboy], Art Foster [Husky Sailor], Arthur Loft [Purser], Stanley Andrews [Official at Boat], Alan Bridge [Boat Captain], Lee Shumway, Al Ferguson [Policemen], Romaine Callender [Top Hat], George Anderson [Townsman], Edgar Dearing, Charles Wilson [Official Cosp], Brandon Hurst, Donald Gallaher, Bud Harrison [Men at Zambini's], Edward Emerson [Master of Ceremonies], Ronnie Rondell [Hotel Manager], Allen Pomeroy, Jack Stoney [Henchmen], Frank Moran, Bobby Barber, Pat West [Bartenders], Larry Daniels [Ringleader], Ferdinand Munier [Santa Claus], Ethan Laidlaw [Saloon Extra], James Lono [Eskimo], Charles Gemora [Bear], Paul "Tiny" Newlan [Tough Ship's Purser], Claire James [Girl], Maxine Fife [Girl], Jack Rutherford [Man], Al Hill [Man], George McKay [Waiter]

Musical Program: [0:03] Sunday, Monday, or Always (excerpt sung by Bing Crosby in the background); [0:07] Good Time Charlie (vaudeville routine sung and danced by Bing Crosby and Bob Hope); [0:23] It's Anybody's Spring (sung by Bing Crosby with Bob Hope on Accordion [onscreen]); [0:36] Personality (sung by Dorothy Lamour); [0:44] Welcome to My Dream (sung by Bing Crosby to Dorothy Lamour); [0:49] Put It There Pal (sung by Bing Crosby and Bob Hope on dog sled); [0:58] Would You (sung by Dorothy Lamour to Bob Hope); [1:04] Welcome to My Dreams (sung Bing Crosby)

Road to Zanzibar
Paramount, 1941, B/W, 92 minutes, ***
Released April, 1941

Carnival con men Bob Hope and Bing Crosby find themselves outswindled on a safari scheme by Dorothy Lamour and left to stew in some cannibals' pots in the second "Road" movie. Una Merkel, Eric Blore, Lionel Royce co-star.

Produced by: Paul Jones
Directed by: Victor Schertzinger
Screen Play by: Frank Butler and Don Hartman
Based on a Story by Don Hartman and Sy Bartlett ("Find Colonel Fawcett")
Musical Direction: Victor Young
Musical Adviser: Arthur Franklin
Songs: Lyrics by Johnny Burke, Music by Jimmy Van Heusen
Musical Numbers Staged by: LeRoy Prinz
Art Direction: Hans Dreier and Robert Usher
Costumes: Edith Head
Sound Recording: Earl Hayman and Don Johnson
Director of Photography: Ted Tetzlaff
Editor: Alma Macrorie

Cast: Bing Crosby [Chuck Reardon], Bob Hope [Hubert "Fearless" Frazier], Dorothy Lamour [Donna Latour], Una Merkel [Julia Quimby], Eric Blore [Charles Kimble], Iris Adrian [French Soubrette in Cafe], Lionel Royce [Mons. Lebec], Buck Woods [Thonga], Leigh Whipper [Scarface], Ernest Whitman [Whiteface], Noble Johnson [Chief], Leo Gorcey [Boy], Joan Marsh [Dimples], Luis Alberni [Proprietor of Native Booth], Robert Middlemass [Police Inspector], Norma Varden [Clara Kimble], Paul Porcasi [Turk at Slave Mart], Ethel Loreen Greer [Fat Lady], Georges Renavent [Saunders], Jules Strongbow [Solomon], Priscilla White, LaVerne Vess [Curzon Sisters], Harry C. Johnson, Harry C. Johnson Jr. [Acrobats], Alan Bridge [Policeman], Henry Roquemore [Cafe Proprietor], James B. Carson [Waiter], Eddie Conrad [Barber], Charles Gemora [Aqua the Gorilla], Ken Carpenter [Commentator], Richard Keene [Clerk], Douglas Dumbrille [Slave Trader]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:01] You Lucky People, You (sung by Bing Crosby behind titles and into opening scene); [0:11] [part of background score] (danced by Chorus Girls); [0:12] A'Frangesa (?) (sung by unidentified female singer, danced by Chorus Girls, joined by Bing Crosby and Bob Hope); [0:38] African Etude (?) / Road to Zanzibar (sung by Bing Crosby and Native Chorus); [0:42] You're Dangerous (sung by Dorothy Lamour); [0:54] It's Always You (sung by Bing Crosby); [1:09] It's Always You (sung by Bing Crosby and Bob Hope, joined by Dorothy Lamour)

Roberta
RKO, 1935, B/W, 105 minutes, ***
Released March, 1935

Fun's in fashion when Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers (plus Irene Dunne and Randolph Scott) enter the ultrachic Parisian world of high fashion in Roberta.

The third Astaire / Rogers film is a silky adaptation of the 1933 Broadway hit (whose original cast included Bob Hope, Sydney Greenstreet and Fred MacMurray). It features a jaunty romantic plot, fabulous sets (the three-level salon set required the world's largest camera crane), memorable music (including Jerome Kern and Otto Harbach's "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes") and above all, incomparable dance magic to match the score. "The most pleasant moments in Roberta," Time reported, "arrive when Astaire and Rogers turn the story upside down and dance on it." Astaire may sing "I Won't Dance. But his feet betray him.   [from back of DVD case]

Look for an unknown Lucille Ball in the fashion show sequence! The film was remade by MGM as Lovely to Look At in 1952.

The Astaire and Rogers Collection, Vol. 2 DVD Box Set (shown right) includes this film and Flying Down to Rio, The Gay Divorcee, Carefree and The Story of Vernon and Irene Castle.

Produced by: Pandro S. Berman
Production Associate: Zion Myers
Directed by: William A. Seiter
From the play "Roberta"
Music by: Jerome Kern
Book and Lyrics by: Otto Harbach
And the novel "Gowns by Roberta" by Alice Duer Miller
Screen Play by: Jane Murfin, Sam Mintz and Allan Scott
Additional Dialogue by: Glenn Tryon
Additional Lyrics by: Dorothy Fields and Jimmy McHugh
Musical Director: Max Steiner
Dances Arranged by: Fred Astaire
Assistant Dance Director: Hermes Pan
Art Director: Van Nest Polglase
Associate: Carroll Clark
Set Dressing by: Thomas K. Little
Gowns by: Bernard Newman
Recorded by: John E. Tribby
Music Recorded by: P. J. Faulkner, Jr.
Photographed by: Edward Cronjager
Edited by: William Hamilton

Awards: Nominated for Best Song Academy Award ("Lovely To Look At")

Cast: Irene Dunne [Stephanie], Fred Astaire [Huck Haines], Ginger Rogers [Countess Scharwenka, Lizzie Gatz], Randolph Scott [John Kent], Helen Westley [Roberta, Aunt Minnie], Victor Varconi [Ladislaw], Claire Dodd [Sophie], Luis Alberni [Voyda], Ferdinand Munier [Lord Delves], Torben Meyer [Albert], Adrian Rosley [Professor], Bodil Rosing [Fernando], Lucille Ball, Jane Hamilton, Margaret McChrystal, Kay Sutton, Maxine Jennings, Virginia Reid, Lorna Low, Lorraine DeSart, Wanda Perry, Diane Cook, Virginia Carroll, Betty Dumbries, Donna Mae Roberts [Mannequins], Mike Tellegen [Cossack], Sam Savitsky [Cossack], Zena Savina [Woman], Mary Forbes [Mrs. Teal], William B. Davidson [Purser], Grace Hayle [Reporter], Dale Van Sickel [Dance Extra], Judith Vosselli, Rita Gould [Bits], Candy Candido, Muzzy Marcellino, Gene Sheldon, Howard Lally, William Carey, Paul McLarind, Hal Borne, Charles Sharpe, Ivan Dow, Phil Cuthbert, Delmon Davis, William Dunn [Orchestra Members]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:04] (Back Home Again In) Indiana (performed by The Wabash Indianians); [0:19] Let's Begin (sung by Fred Astaire and Candy Candido, danced by Fred Astaire, Candy Candido, Gene Sheldon and Ginger Rogers); [0:27] Russian Lullaby (sung by Irene Dunne); [0:29] I'll Be Hard to Handle (sung by Ginger Rogers, danced by Rogers and Fred Astaire); [0:32] I'll Be Hard to Handle (instrumental version danced by Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire); [0:41] Yesterdays (sung by Irene Dunne); [1:00] Lovely to Look At (played by Orchestra); [1:08] I Won't Dance (Fred Astaire on piano with Wabash Indianaians, sung and danced by Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire); [1:16] Smoke Gets in Your Eyes (hummed and sung by Irene Dunne); [1:29] Lovely to Look At (played by Orchestra during fashion show and sung by Irene Dunne and Chorus); [1:38] Lovely to Look At (sung and danced by Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers); [1:39] Smoke Gets in Your Eyes (instrumental reprise danced by Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers); [1:43] I Won't Dance (instrumental reprise danced by Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers)

Robin and the 7 Hoods
(aka Robin and the Seven Hoods)
Warner Bros., 1964, Color, 103 minutes
Released June, 1964

The last of the "Rat Pack" films is set in Roaring Twenties Chicago, and Sinatra and crew play garrulous gangsters who rob from the rich and give to the poor... and themselves. Dean Martin, Sammy Davis, Jr., Bing Crosby, Peter Falk co-star; great score includes "My Kind of Town."

Producer: Frank Sinatra
Associate Producer: William H. Daniels
Executive Producer: Howard W. Koch
Director: Gordon Douglas
Screenplay: David R. Schwartz
Musical Composer: Nelson Riddle
Music Director: Nelson Riddle
Song Score: Sammy Cahn and James Van Heusen
Choreography: Jack Baker
Production Design: LeRoy Deane
Set Decoration: Raphael Bretton
Costume Design: Don Feld
Sound: Everett A. Hughes, Vinton Vernon
Cinematography: William H. Daniels
Film Editing: Sam O'Steen

Awards: Academy Award nomination for Best Adapted Score (Nelson Riddle) and Best Song ("My Kind of Town")

Cast: Frank Sinatra [Robbo], Dean Martin [Little John], Sammy Davis Jr. [Will], Bing Crosby [Allen A. Dale], Peter Falk [Guy Gisborne], Barbara Rush [Marian], Edward G. Robinson [Big Jim], Victor Buono [Sheriff Potts], Barry Kelley [Police Chief], Hank Henry [Six Seconds], Robert Carricart [Blue Jaw], Allen Jenkins [Vermin], Jack LaRue [Tomatoes], Hans Conried [Mr. Ricks], Sig Rumann [Hammacher], Robert Foulk [Sheriff Glick], Sonny King, Phillip Crosby, Richard Bakalyan [Robbo's Hoods], Phil Arnold [Hatrack], Harry Swoger [Soup Meat], Joseph Ruskin [Tick], Bernard Fein [Charlie Bananas], Carol Hill [Cocktail Waitress], Diane Sayer ["Booze" Witness], William Zuckert, Richard Simmons [Prosecutors], Milton Rudin [Judge], Maurice Manson [Dignitary], Chris Hughes [Jud], Harry Wilson, Joe Brooks, Roger Creed, Richard Sinatra [Gisborne's Hoods], Carolyn Morin [House Guard], Aldo Silvani [Guard], Joe Gray, John Delgado, Boyd "Red" Morgan, John Pedrini, Al Wyatt, Tony Randall [Hoods], Eddie Ness, Frank Scannell [Lawyers], Thom Conroy, Joey Jackson [Butlers], Linda Brent [Woman Derelict], Jerry Davis, Manuel Padilla, Jr., Mark Sherwood [Boys], Ronnie Dayton [Man], Larry D. Mann [Workman]

Musical Program: All for One and One for All (sung by Peter Falk); Give Praise! Give Praise! Give Praise! (sung by Chorus); Any Man Who Loves His Mother (sung by Dean Martin); Bang! Bang! (sung by Sammy Davis Jr.); Style (sung by Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Bing Crosby); Charlotte Couldn't Charleston (sung by Chorus); Mister Booze (sung by Bing Crosby, Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis, Jr.); Don't Be a Do-Badder (sung by Bing Crosby); My Kind of Town (sung by Frank Sinatra)

Rock, Rock, Rock!
Vanguard Productions, 1956, B/W, 78 minutes

A young teenage girl desperately tries to earn enough money to buy a dress for a school rock and roll dance. This early rock and roll feature includes an appearance by disc jockey Alan Freed, and performances by artists including Chuck Berry, LaVern Baker, and Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers.

Note: This title is apparently in public domain, so beware of poor copies on DVD and VHS. I bought a VHS, and it is very poor quality. Unfortunately, I have no way of knowing which ones are best.

Producers: Max Rosenberg and Milton Subotsky
Director: Will Price
Screenplay: Phyllis Coe and Milton Subotsky (based on a story by Phyllis Coe)
Musical Composers: Chuck Berry, Charles F. Calhoun, Buddy Dufault, George Goldner, Leroy Kirkland, Freddie Mitchell, Glen Moore, Aaron Schröder, Frank Virtue, Ben Weisman
Music Director: Milton Subotsky
Cinematography: Morris Hartzband
Editors: Robert Broekman and Blandine Hafela

Cast: Tuesday Weld [Dori], Teddy Randazzo [Tommy], Alan Freed [Himself], Frankie Lymon [Himself], Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers [Themselves], Sherman Garnes [Himself, bass singer for The Teenagers], Chuck Berry [Himself], Johnny Burnette [Himself, with The Johnny Burnette Trio], The Johnny Burnette Trio [Themselves], Jack Collins [Father], Carol Moss [Mother], Bert Conway [Mr. Barker], Jacqueline Kerr [Gloria], Lester Mack [Mr. Bimble], Fran Manfred [Arabella], Ivy Schulman [Baby], Eleanor Swayne [Miss Silky], David Winters [Melville], Valerie Harper [bit], Michael Peterson [Dancer at Prom], La Vern Baker [Herself], Tommy Romano [Himself], The Moonglows [Themselves: Harvey Fuqua (lead), Prentiss Barnes, Aexander Graves, Billy Johnson, Bobby Lester], The Flamingos [Themselves: Johnny Carter (lead), Jake Carey, Zeke Carey, Nate Nelson], Jimmy Cavallo and the House Rockers [Themselves], Jimmy Cavallo [Himself, lead for Jimmy Cavallo and The House Rockers], Cirino and the Bowties [Themselves: Cirino Colacrai (lead), John Granada, Jimmy Piro, Vince Sepaldo], Frank Virtue and the Virtues [Themselves], Frank Virtue [Himself, lead for Frank Virtue and the Virtues]
Connie Francis [singing voice of Tuesday Weld]

Musical Program: coming one of these days...

Roman Scandals
Howard Productions / Samuel Goldwyn, 1933, B/W, 92 minutes, ***
Released December, 1933

Picturesque production numbers and zany comedy highlight this Eddie Cantor vehicle in which Ol' Banjo Eyes is transported back in time to Ancient Rome (that's probably why the empire fell!). With Ruth Etting, Edward Arnold and the choreography of Busby Berkeley.

Has a lot of nice travel scenes filmed in Italy. Almost becomes distracting - it's like taking a tour. I keep expecting to hear Pete Smith start chatting...

Produced by: Samuel Goldwyn
Directed by: Frank Tuttle
Original Story by: George S. Kaufman and Robert E. Sherwood
Adapted for the Screen by: William Anthony McGuire
Additional Material by: George Oppenheimer, Arthur Sheekman and Nat Perrin
Songs by: Harry Warren and Al Dubin
Production Numbers Directed by: Busby Berkeley
Chariot Sequences Directed by: Ralph Ceder
Musical Score by: Alfred Newman
Settings by: Richard Day
Costume Design: John W. Harkrider
Sound Recorded by: Vinton Vernon
Photography by: Gregg Toland and Ray June
Chariot Sequences Photographed by: John W. Boyle
Film Edited by: Stuart Heisler

Cast: Eddie Cantor [Eddie], Ruth Etting [Olga], Gloria Stuart [Princess Sylvia], David Manners [Josephus], Verree Teasdale [Empress Agrippa], Edward Arnold [Emperor Valerius], Alan Mowbray [Majordomo], Jack Rutherford [Manius], Grace Poggi [Slave Dancer], Willard Robertson [Warren F. Cooper], Harry Holman [Mayor of West Rome], Lee Kohlmar [Storekeeper], Stanley Fields [Slave Auctioneer], Charles Wilson [Police Chief Pratt], Clarence Wilson [Buggs], Stanley Andrews [Official], Stanley Blystone [Cop], Harry Cording, Lane Chandler, Duke York [Soldiers], William Wagner [Slave Buyer], Louise Carver [Lady Slave Bidder], Francis Ford [Citizen], Charles Arnt [Caius], Leo Willis [Torturer], Frank Hagney [Lucius Aide], Michael Mark [Assistant Cook], Richard Alexander [Guard], Paul Porcasi [Chef], John Ince [Senator], Jane Darwell [Beauty Salon Manager], Billy Barty [Little Eddie], Iris Schunn [Girl], Aileen Riggin [Slave Dancer], Mary Lange, Vivian Keefer, Barbara Pepper, Lucille Ball [Slave Girls]

Musical Program: [0:09] Build a Little Home (sung by Eddie Cantor and the Goldwyn Girls); [0:25] No More Love (sung by Ruth Etting and the Goldwyn Girls, danced by Grace Poggi and Goldwyn Girls); [1:04] Keep Young and Beautiful (sung by Eddie Cantor, the Goldwyn Girls and Billy Barty); [1:17] Put a Tax on Love (sung by Eddie Cantor); [1:30] Build a Little Home (reprised by Eddie Cantor and Chorus)

Romance on the High Seas
Warner Bros., 1948, Color, 99 minutes, ***½
Premiere release June, 1948
General release July, 1948

Elvira Kent (Janis Paige) suspects her husband Michael (Don DeFore) of fooling around, so she secretly foregoes her ocean cruise to stay around and spy on him. She sends Georgia Garrett (Doris Day) on the cruise in her place. Michael thinks Elvira is cheating on him, so he sends a detective on the ocean cruise to keep an eye on her. The result is romance on the high seas between the detective and Georgia. Lots of fun!

The Doris Day Collection, Vol. 2 DVD Box Set includes this movie, My Dream Is Yours, On Moonlight Bay, I'll See You in My Dreams, By the Light of the Silvery Moon, and Lucky Me.

Producer: Alex Gottlieb
Director: Michael Curtiz
Screenplay: I.A.L. Diamond, Julius J. Epstein and Philip G. Epstein
(based on the story "Romance in High C" by S. Pondal Rios and Carlos A. Olivari)
Music Director: Leo F. Forbstein
Song Score: Sammy Cahn and Jule Styne
Choreography: Busby Berkeley
Art Direction: Anton Grot
Special Effects: Robert Burks, Wilfred M. Cline and David Curtiz
Set Decoration: Howard Winterbottom
Sound: David Forrest, Everett A. Brown
Cinematography: Elwood Bredell
Special Effects: David Curtiz, Robert Burks, Wilfred M. Cline
Film Editing: Rudi Fehr

Awards: Academy Award nominations for Best Score (Musical) and Best Song ("It's Magic")

Cast: Jack Carson [Peter Virgil], Janis Paige [Elvira Kent], Don DeFore [Michael Kent], Doris Day [Georgia Garrett], Oscar Levant [Oscar Farrar], S. Z. Sakall [Uncle Lazlo], Fortunio Bonanova [Plinio], Eric Blore [Ship's Doctor], Franklin Pangborn [Rio Hotel Clerk], Leslie Brooks [Miss Medwick], William Bakewell, John Alvin [Travel Agents], John Berkes [The Drunk], Kenneth Britton [Bartender], Frank Dae [Minister], John Holland [Best Man], Janet Warren [Organist], Douglas Kennedy [Car Salesman], Mary Field [Elvira's Maid], Tristram Coffin [Headwaiter on Ship], Grady Sutton [Radio Operator], Barbara Bates [Stewardess], Sandra Gould [Telephone Operator], Bess Flowers [Dance Floor Extra], Avon Long [Himself], The Samba Kings [Themselves], The Page Cavanaugh Trio [Themselves]

Musical Program: [0:13] I'm in Love (sung by Doris Day accompanied by Oscar Levant at the piano); [0:34] It's You or No One (sung by Doris Day with the Page Cavanaugh Trio); [0:37] The Tourist Trade (sung and danced by Avon Long); [0:42] It's Magic (excerpt sung in Spanish by wandering troubador, then sung in English by Doris Day joined by the troubador); [0:55] Put 'Em in a Box (sung by Doris Day with the Page Cavanaugh Trio); [0:58] Cuban Rhapsody (excerpt played by Oscar Levant); [1:00] It's You or No One (reprised by Doris Day); [1:04] In Trinidad (excerpt sung by The Samba Kings); [1:05] Run, Run, Run (sung Calypso style by Jack Carson with The Samba Kings); [1:19] It's Magic (reprised by Doris Day); [1:31] Two Lovers Meet in the Night (?) (played by Orchestra, danced by guests at nightclub); [1:35] It's Magic (reprised by Doris Day)

Room Service
RKO, 1938, B/W, 85 minutes
Released September, 1938

Groucho, Harpo and Chico are Broadway producers who have a play, some hungry actors, no backers and a hotel bill that keeps rising. Their attempts to stay one step ahead of everyone will leave you in the aisle. Lucille Ball, Ann Miller, Frank Albertson co-star.

The Marx Brothers Collection DVD Box Set (shown right) contains this film and A Night at the Opera, A Day at the Races, A Night in Casablanca, At the Circus, Go West and The Big Store.

Executive in Charge of Production: Pandro S. Berman
Directed by: William A. Seiter
Adapted by: Morrie Ryskind
From the Play by: Allen Boretz, John Murray Musical Director: Roy Webb
Art Direction by: Van Nest Polglase
Associate: Alfred Herman
Set Decorations by: Darrell Silvera
Gowns by: Renie
Sound Recordist: John L. Cass
Director of Photography: J. Roy Hunt
Film Editor: George Crone

Cast: Groucho Marx [Gordon Miller], Chico Marx [Harry Binelli], Harpo Marx [Faker Englund], Lucille Ball [Christine Marlowe], Ann Miller [Hilda Manny], Frank Albertson [Leo Davis], Cliff Dunstan [Joseph Gribble], Donald MacBride [Gregory Wagner], Philip Loeb [Timothy Hogarth], Philip Wood [Simon Jenkins], Alexander Asro [Sasha Smirnoff], Charles Halton [Dr. Glass], Additional Cast: Stanley Blystone [Policeman in Alley], Paul Everton [Man in Play], Donald Kerr [Bellboy], Frank Otto [Bank Messenger], Bruce Mitchell, William Ruhl, Max Wagner [Detectives]

Musical Program: None




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Rosalie
MGM, 1937, B/W, 122 minutes, ***
Released December, 1937

The music of Cole Porter, including "In the Still of the Night," highlights this romantic musical about a West Point cadet who falls for a European princess. Nelson Eddy, Eleanor Powell, Edna May Oliver, Frank Morgan and Ray Bolger star.

This film has some breathtakingly beautiful sets and costumes. The dance numbers at the festival are outstanding! The only complaint I have is that they were trimmed - I would have liked to seen them in their entirety! And why doesn't Ilona Massy get to sing more? Why doesn't Bolger get to dance?

This is the film where Eleanor Powell dances on giant drums. And there is music from one end to the other -- almost impossible to list all of it, and most is just very short excerpts. Great dancing sequences!

Produced by: William Anthony McGuire
Directed by: W. S. Van Dyke II
Screen Play Written and Produced by: William Anthony McGuire
Based in the Play by William Anthony McGuire and Guy Bolton
Words and Music by: Cole Porter
Musical Direction by: Herbert Stothart
Musical Presentation by: Merrill Pye
Dances and Ensembles Created by: Albertina Rasch
Musical Conductor: George Stoll
Musical Arrangements: Roger Edens
Orchestral and Vocal Arrangements: Leo Arnaud, Murray Cutter, Leon Raab, Paul Marquardt
Art Director: Cedric Gibbons
Associates: Joseph Wright, Edwin B. Willis
Wardrobe by: Dolly Tree
Recording Director: Douglas Shearer
Photographed by: Oliver T. Marsh
Montage Effects by: Slavko Vorkapich
Film Editor: Blanche Sewell

Cast: Nelson Eddy [Dick Thorpe], Eleanor Powell [Rosalie], Frank Morgan [King], Edna May Oliver [Queen], Ray Bolger [Bill Delroy], Ilona Massey [Brenda], Billy Gilbert [Oloff], Reginald Owen [Chancellor], Tom Rutherford [Prince Paul], Clay Clement [Captain Banner], Virginia Grey [Mary Callahan], George Zucco [General Maroff], Oscar O'Shea [Mr. Callahan], Jerry Colonna [Joseph], Janet Beecher [Miss Baker], William Demarest [Army Coach], Additional Cast: Rush Hughes [Announcer], Wallis Clark [Major Prentice], Richard Tucker [Colonel Brandon], Wilson Benge [Steward], Pierre Watkin [Academy superintendent], Tommy Bond [Mickey], Purnell Pratt [Ship's Captain], Ricca Allen [Schoolteacher], Al Shean [Herman Schmidt], Frank Du Frane [Superintendent's Aide], Ocean Claypool, Kay Aldridge [Ladies-in-Waiting], Edward Earle [Navy Officer], George Magrill [Assistant Army Coach], Lane Chandler [Army Coach], Phillip Terry [Cadet], William Tannen [Cadet], George Humbert [Carlo], Max Davidson [Chamberlain], Harry Semels, Roy Barcroft, John Picorri, Sidney Bracey [Conspirators], Albertina Rasch Dancers [Themselves], Marjorie Lane [singing voice of Eleanor Powell

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture: "Rosalie" (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:02] On Brave Old Army Team (excerpt sung by Nelson Eddy and Chorus); [0:10] There are a number of military marches and anthems played by orchestra in this sequence, most notably the Navy singing the Army anthem and vice-versa after the Army-Navy football game The Caissons Go Rolling Along (excerpt sung and marched by Nelson Eddy, Ray Bolger and Chorus, then sung by Sailors to Soldiers [Chorus]); [0:12] Anchors Aweigh (excerpt sung to Sailors by Nelson Eddy, Ray Bolger and Chorus); [0:13] Who Knows (excerpt sung by Camille Soray dubbing for Lois Clements, instrumental segment danced by Nelson Eddy and Eleanor Powell); [0:17] Who Knows (excerpt sung by Nelson Eddy while dancing with Eleanor Powell, later sung by Nelson Eddy dancing with Eleanor Powell); [0:21] I've Got a Strange New Rhythm in My Heart (sung and danced by Eleanor Powell, Marjorie Lane dubbing for Miss Powell); [0:31] M'appari tutt' amor (from the opera MARTHA, excerpt sung by Nelson Eddy attempting to serenade Eleanor Powell); [0:32] Rosalie (sung by Nelson Eddy serenading Eleanor Powell); [0:39] Why Should I Care (sung by Frank Morgan with his dummy Nappy); [0:45] Billy Gilbert's sneezing fit (he played Sneezy in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs the same year - 1937); [0:53] Polovetsian Dances (played by Orchestra, danced by the Albertina Rasch Dancers); [0:55] Spring Love Is in the Air (sung by Illona Massey and Chorus); [0:59] Caucasian Sketches (played by Orchestra, danced by Albertina Rasch Dancers and Chorus -- incredible set and costuming! It's hard to believe they trimmed this down to just a few seconds!); [1:07] unidentified (played by Orchestra, danced by the Albertina Rasch Dancers and Chorus); [1:09] Rosalie (sung by Chorus, danced by Eleanor Powell in the "Drum Dance" sequence); [1:17] In the Still of the Night (sung by Nelson Eddy to Elenor Powell); [1:23] Ray Bolger gets to do a tiny little tap routine here; [1:40] It's All Over But the Shouting (sung by Nelson Eddy and Cadets); [1:40] To Love or Not to Love (sung by Nelson Eddy, Ray Bolger and Cadets); [1:48] Sousa Medley (Marched by Eleanor Powell and Cadets, then danced by Powell); [1:55] In the Still of the Night (short reprisal sung by Nelson Eddy); [2:00] Finale: Wedding March (excerpt played by Orchestra) Gaudeamus Igitur / O Promise Me / Rosalie (sung by Nelson Eddy and Chorus)

Rose Marie
MGM, 1936, B/W, 110 minutes, ***½
Premiere release January, 1936
General release February, 1936

Nelson Eddy and Jeanette MacDonald are calling you, in this classic operetta. He's a mountie assigned to bring in her brother (James Stewart), but before long they fall in love. Great sets and songs, including "Indian Love Call."

Produced by: Hunt Stromberg
Directed by: W. S. Van Dyke
Screen Play by: Frances Goodrich, Albert Hackett and Alice Duer Miller
Based on the stage production of Arthur Hammerstein; from the Play by Otto A. Harbach and Oscar Hammerstein 2nd
Music Composed by: Rudolf Friml and Herbert Stothart
Musical Direction: Herbert Stothart
Additional Lyrics by: Gus Kahn
Totem Pole Dance Staged by: Chester Hale
Operatic Episodes Staged by: William von Wymetal
Art Director: Cedric Gibbons
Art Associates: Joseph Wright, Edwin B. Willis
Gowns by: Adrian
Recording Director: Douglas Shearer
Photographed by: William Daniels
Film Editor: Blanche Sewell

Cast: Jeanette MacDonald [Marie de Flor], Nelson Eddy [Sergeant Bruce], Reginald Owen [Myerson], Allan Jones [Romeo], James Stewart [John Flower], Alan Mowbray [Premier], Gilda Gray [Belle], George Regas [Boniface], Robert Greig [Hotel Manager], Una O'Connor [Anna], Lucien Littlefield [Storekeeper], David Nivens [Teddy], Herman Bing [Mr. Danielles], Additional Cast: Jimmy Conlin [Joe the Piano Player], Dorothy Gray [Edith], Mary Anita Loos [Corn Queen], Aileen Carlyle [Susan], Halliwell Hobbes [Mr. Gordon], Paul Porcasi [Emil the Chef], Bert Lindley [Pop], Edgar Dearing [Mounted Policeman], Pat West [Traveling Salesman], Milton Owen [Stage Manager], David Clyde [Doorman], Russell Hicks [Commandant], Rolfe Sedan, Louis Mercier [Admirers in Hall], Jack Pennick [Brawler], Leonard Carey [Louis], David Robel, Rinaldo Alacorn [Dancers], Matty Roubert [Newsboy], Major Sam Harris [Guest], Ernie Alexander [Elevator Operator], James Mason [Trapper], John George, Lee Phelps [Barflies], Fred Graham [Corporal], Agostino Borgato, Adrian Rosley [Opera Fans], Delos Jewkes [Butcher at Hotel]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture: with short excerpt of Indian Love Call (sung by Chorus behind titles); [0:01] Je veux vivre dans le rêve ("Juliet's Waltz Song" from the opera ROMÉO ET JULIETTE, sung by Jeanette MacDonald along with others, including Allan Jones as Romeo, joining in several excerpts from the opera); [0:17] Pardon Me Madame (sung by Jeanette MacDonald, numerous soloists and Chorus); [0:25] The Mounties (sung by Nelson Eddy and Mens Chorus); [0:36] Dinah (sung by Jeanette MacDonald); [0:37] Some of These Days (sung by Jeanette MacDonald, joined by Gilda Gray); [0:46] Rose Marie (sung by Nelson Eddy to Jeanette MacDonald); [0:50] Totem Tom Tom (Totem Pole Dance, sung and danced by Chorus); [1:00] Rose Marie / Just for You (sung by Nelson Eddy serenading Jeanette MacDonald in her hotel room); [1:07] Three Blind Mice (sung by Jeanette MacDonald and her echo); [1:17] Indian Love Call (sung by Nelson Eddy and Jeanette MacDonald); [1:29] Indian Love Call (reprised by Nelson Eddy and Jeanette MacDonald); [1:27] Indian Love Call (reprised by Jeanette MacDonald as Nelson Eddy rides off with her brother [Jimmy Stewart]); [1:41] LA TOSCA (excerpts from the opera sung by Allan Jones and Jeanette MacDonald); [1:47] Indian Love Call (reprised by Jeanette MacDonald, joined by Nelson Eddy)

Rose Marie
MGM, 1954, Color, 115 and 102 minutes, **½
Released April, 1954

Though this is supposedly a remake of the Nelson Eddy / Jeanette MacDonald Rose-Marie (1936), it bears little resemblance to the orginial. However, it has a good cast and some good moments. It's well worth the price of admission just to see the antics of Bert Lahr and Marjorie Main! There are several different prints of this film floating around on home video, but it is hard to find.

Produced and Directed by: Mervyn LeRoy
Assistant Director: Arvid Griffen
Screen Play by: Ronald Millar and George Froeschel
Based on the Operetta "Rose Marie" presented on the stage by Arthur Hammerstein, Book and Lyrics by Otto A. Harbach and Oscar Hammerstein II
Music by: Rudolf Friml and Herbert Stothart
Lyrics for Screen Version by: Paul Francis Webster
Additional Music and Lyrics by: Rudolf Friml, George Stoll and Herbert Baker
Musical Direction by: George Stoll
Orchestration: Leo Arnaud and Robert Van Eps
Musical Numbers Staged by: Busby Berkeley
Art Directors: Cedric Gibbons and Merrill Pye
Set Decorations: Edwin B. Willis, Ralph Hurst
Women's Costumes Designed by: Helen Rose
Hair Styles by: Sydney Guilaroff
Make-Up Created by: William Tuttle
Recording Supervisor: Douglas Shearer
Director of Photography: Paul Vogel
Special Effects: A. Arnold Gillespie, Warren Newcombe
Montage Sequence by: Peter Ballbusch
Filmed in CinemaScope and Eastman Color
Color Consultant: Alvord Eiseman
Film Editor: Harold F. Kress

Cast: Ann Blyth [Rose Marie Lemaitre], Howard Keel [Mike Malone], Fernando Lamas [James Severn Duval], Bert Lahr [Barney McGorkle], Marjorie Main [Lady Jane Dunstock], Joan Taylor [Wanda], Ray Collins [Inspector Appleby], Chief Yowlachie [Black Eagle], Additional Cast: James Logan [Clerk], Thurl Ravenscroft [Indian Medicine Man], Abel Fernandez [Indian Warrior], Billy Dix [Mess Waiter], Al Ferguson [Woodsman], Frank Hagney [Woodsman], Marshall Reed [Mountie], Sheb Wooley [Corporal], Dabbs Greer [Committeeman], John Pickard [Orderly], John Damler [Orderly], Sally Yarnell [Hostess], Gordon Richards [Attorney], Lumsden Hare [Judge], Mickey Simpson [Trapper], Pepi Lanzi [Johnny Lang]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture: "Rose Marie" (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:07] The Right Place for a Girl (sung by Howard Keel); [0:14] The Mounties (sung by Howard Keel and Mens Chorus); [0:19] Free to Be Free (sung by Ann Blyth); [0:26] Rose Marie (with special lyrics, sung by Howard Keel); [0:37] The Mountie Who Never Got His Man (sung by Bert Lahr); [0:57] Indian Love Call (sung by Ann Blyth and Fernando Lamas); [1:05] Rose Marie (sung by Howard Keel); [1:09] Totum Tom Tom (production number sung by Chorus, danced by Joan Taylor and Chorus); [1:16] I Have the Love (sung by Ann Blyth and Fernando Lamas); [1:29] Indian Love Call (reprised by Ann Blyth and her echo); [cut] "Love and Kisses" (Marjorie Main and Bert Lahr, outtake)

Rose of Washington Square
20th Century-Fox, 1939, B/W, 86 minutes, ***
Released May, 1939

One of my favorite Alice Faye movies. Loosely based on the life of Fanny Brice. The "Rose of Washington Square" production number, pictured below, includes a segment in which Alice and the chorus line flip cigarettes onto the floor only to have them magically reappear in their hands again. Great music, good story, great fun. Don't miss it!

The Alice Faye Collection, Vol. 2 includes this film; Hollywood Cavalcade; The Great American Broadcast; Hello, Frisco, Hello; and Four Jills in a Jeep

In Charge of Production: Darryl F. Zanuck
Associate Producer: Nunnally Johnson
Directed by: Gregory Ratoff
Screen Play by: Nunnally Johnson
Based on a Story by: John Larkin and Jerry Horwin
Music and Lyrics:
"Rose of Washington Square" by James F. Hanley and Ballard MacDonald
Music Direction: Louis Silvers
Dances Staged by: Seymour Felix
Art Direction: Richard Day, Rudolph Sternad
Set Decorations: Thomas Little
Costumes: Royer
Sound: Eugene Grossman, Roger Heman
Photography: Karl Freund
Film Editor: Louis Loeffler

Cast: Tyrone Power [Bart Clinton], Alice Faye [Rose Sargent], Al Jolson [Ted Cotter], William Frawley [Harry Long], Joyce Compton [Peggy], Hobart Cavanaugh [Whitey Boone], Moroni Olsen [Buck Russell], E. E. Clive [Barouche Driver], Louis Prima [Band Leader], Charles Wilson [Mike Cavanaugh], Hal K. Dawson, Paul Burns [Chumps], Ben Welden [Toby], Horace MacMahon [Irving], Paul Stanton [District Attorney], Harry Hayden [Dexter], Charles Lane [Sam Kress], Adrian Morris [Jim], John Hamilton [Judge], Winifred Harris [Mrs. Russell], Additional Cast: Igor and Tanya [Specialty Dancers], Chick Chandler [Master of Ceremonies], Murray Alper [Candy Butcher], Ralph Dunn [Officer], Edgar Dearing [Lieutenant], Robert "Buddy" Shaw [Reporter], James Flavin [Guard], Leonard Kibrick [Newsboy], Irene Wilsen [Miss Lust], Bert Roach [Mr. Paunch], Maurice Cass [Mr. Mork], Bess Flowers [Dinner Guest]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture: "Rose of Washington Square" (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:01] Pretty Baby (sung by Al Jolson); [0:03] I'm Sorry I Made You Cry (sung by Alice Faye); [0:05] Ja-da (sung by Alice Faye and Chorus); [0:07] The Vamp (sung by Alice Faye and Chorus); [0:16] Rock-A-Bye Your Baby With a Dixie Melody (sung by Al Jolson); [0:20] Toot Toot Tootsie Goodbye (sung and danced by Al Jolson); [0:25] Shine On, Harvest Moon (instrumental played by Louis Prima and His Band at night club); [0:26] I'm Just Wild About Harry (sung by Alice Faye with Louis Prima and His Band); [0:30] The Curse of an Aching Heart (excerpt sung by Tyrone Power and Alice Faye); [0:33] California, Here I Come (sung by Al Jolson); [0:41] I Never Knew Heaven Could Speak (sung by Alice Faye); [0:53] Rose of Washington Square (production number sung by Alice Faye, danced by Igor and Tanya and Chorus, danced by Alice Faye and Chorus -- a true classic!); [1:03] I'm Always Chasing Rainbows (instrumental arrangement used in background score); [1:16] My Mammy (sung by Al Jolson); [1:20] My Man (sung by Alice Faye)


Alice Faye and Chorus
"Rose of Washington Square" production number
origianl photo ©1938 20th Century-Fox

Roustabout
Paramount, 1964, Color, 101 minutes, **½
Released November, 1964

After he's run off the road and his motorcycle is smashed, Elvis Presley signs on as a worker with a travelling carnival run by Barbara Stanwyck and eventually becomes the show's singing star (performing "Poison Ivy League," "Carnival Time," "One-Track Heart" and more) in this song-filled drama that also stars Joan Freeman, Sue Ann Langdon. Look for Raquel Welch in her film debut.

Lights! Camera! Elvis! Collection DVD Box Set (shown right) includes this film and Blue Hawaii, Easy Come, Easy Go, Fun in Acapulco, G.I. Blues, Girls! Girls! Girls!, King Creole, Paradise, Hawaiian Style.

Produced by: Hal B. Wallis
Associate Producer: Paul Nathan
Directed by: John Rich
Assistant Director: D. Michael Moore
Screenplay by: Anthony Lawrence and Allan Weiss
Story by: Allan Weiss
Music Scored and Conducted by: Joseph J. Lilley
Musical Score: Joseph J. Lilley
Song Score: Bill Giant, Bernie Baum and Florence Kaye
Musical Numbers Staged by: Earl Barton
Vocal Accompaniment: The Jordanaires
Technical Advisor: Col. Tom Parker
Art Direction: Hal Pereira and Walter Tyler
Set Decoration: Sam Comer and Robert Benton
Costumes: Edith Head
Makeup Supervision: Wally Westmore
Hair Style Supervision: Nellie Manley
Sound Recording by: John Carter and Charles Grenzbach
Special Effects: Paul K. Lerpae
Director of Photography: Lucien Ballard
Filmed in Technicolor and Techniscope
Technicolor Color Consultant: Richare Mueller
Special Photographic Effects: Paul K. Lerpae
Editorial Supervision: Warren Low

Cast: Elvis Presley [Charlie Rogers], Barbara Stanwyck [Maggie Morgan], Joan Freeman [Cathy Lean], Leif Erickson [Joe Lean], Sue Ane Langdon [Mme. Mijanou], Pat Buttram [Harry Carver], Joan Staley [Marge], Dabbs Greer [Arthur Nielsen], Steve Brodie [Fred], Norman Grabowski [Sam, the College Student], Jack Albertson [Lou], Jane Dulo [Hazel], Arthur Levy [Gus], Joel Fluellen [Cody Marsh], Toby Reed [Dick], Kenneth Becker [Gregg], Ray Kellogg [Ernie], Marianna Hill [Viola], Lester Miller [B.J.], Beverly Adams [Cora], Glenn Wilder [Craig], Wilda Taylor, Mercedes G. Ford [Dancers], Eddie Marr, Bob Matthews, Buddy Lewis, Jack Whalen, Lance Le Gault [Barkers], K. L. Smith [Sheriff], Mike Mahoney, Roger Creed [Deputies], Billy Barty [Billy, the Midget], Jerry James [Stage Manager], Barbara Hemingway [Fat Lady], Richard Kiel [Strong Man], Max Manning [Juggler], Dianne Simpson [Elephant Girl], John Turk [Volcano Man], Chester Hayes [Clown], Joe Forte, Howard Joslin [Concessionaires], Lynn Borden, Linda Foster, Teri Hope, Raquel Welch [College Students], The Jordanaires [vocals]

Musical Program: [0:00] Roustabout (sung by Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires behind titles); [0:04] Poison Ivy League (sung by Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires); [0:11] Wheels on My Heels (sung by Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires); [0:28] It's a Wonderful World (sung by Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires); [0:38] It's Carnival Time (sung by Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires); [0:43] Carny Town (sung by Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires); [0:44] One Track Heart (sung by Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires); [0:49] It's Carnival Time (reprised by Elvis Presley); [0:50] Hard Knocks (sung by Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires); [1:24] Little Egypt (sung by Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires, danced by Girls Chorus); [1:31] Big Love, Big Heartache (sung by Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires); [1:39] There's a Brand New Day on the Horizon (sung by Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires)

Royal Wedding
MGM, 1951, Color, 93 minutes, ***½
Released March, 1951

A fun film starring Jane Powell and Fred Astaire as brother and sister stage musical stars. They take their show to England just in time for the wedding of Queen Elizabeth II. And, yes, Sarah Churchill is the daughter of Winston Churchill. A cut scene featuring a song and dance routine by Peter Lawford and Jane Powell has survived and can sometimes be seen on TCM. Musical highlights include "Open Your Eyes," sung by Jane and danced by Jane and Fred on a rolling ship during a storm and "The Liar Song," sung and danced by Jane and Fred. This is the film that features Fred dancing on the ceiling and walls of his hotel room.

There are many public domain DVD and VHS releases of this film, but only the DVD and VHS shown here are studio releases. I would certainly recommend buying the studio release over any public domain release!

Classic Musicals from the Dream Factory, Vol. 2 DVD Box Set (shown right) includes this film and The Pirate, Words and Music, That's Dancing, The Belle of New York, That Midnight Kiss, The Toast of New Orleans.

Produced by: Arthur Freed
Directed by: Stanley Donen
Story and Screen Play by: Alan Jay Lerner
Music by: Burton Lane
Lyrics by: Alan Jay Lerner
Musical Direction: Johnny Green
Orchestrations: Conrad Salinger and Skip Martin
Dances by: Nick Castle
Art Directors: Cedric Gibbons and Jack Martin Smith
Set Decorations: Edwin B. Willis
Associate: Alfred E. Spencer
Hair Styles Designed by: Sydney Guilaroff
Make-Up Created by: William J. Tuttle
Recording Supervisor: Douglas Shearer
Director of Photography: Robert Planck
Special Effects: Warren Newcombe
Color by Technicolor
Technicolor Color Consultants: Henri Jaffa, James Gooch
Film Editor: Albert Akst

Awards: Nominated for Best Song Academy Award ("Too Late Now")

Cast: Fred Astaire [Tom Bowen], Jane Powell [Ellen Bowen], Peter Lawford [Lord John Brindale], Sarah Churchill [Anne Ashmond], Keenan Wynn [Irving Klinger / Edgar Klinger], Albert Sharpe [James Ashmond], Viola Roache [Sarah Ashmond], Henri Letondal [Purser], James Finlayson [Cabby], Alex Frazer [Chester], Jack Reilly [Pete Cumberly], William Cabanne [Dick], John Hedloe [Billy], Francis Bethancourt [Charles Gordon], Andre Charisse [Steward], Bess Flowers [Woman Guest], Dee Turnell [Dancer], Mae Clarke [Telephone Operator]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture: "You're All the World to Me" / "Too Late Now" (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:01] Every Night at Seven (sung by Fred Astaire and Chorus, danced by Fred Astaire and Jane Powell); [0:16] Sunday Jumps (instrumental arrangement played by Orchestra, danced by Fred Astaire with a metronome and a hat rack); [0:21] Open Your Eyes (sung by Jane Powell, danced by Jane Powell and Fred Astaire sliding around on the floor as the ship rocks in a storm); [0:30] Every Night at Seven (instrumental, danced by Sarah Churchill, joined by Fred Astaire); [0:44] The Happiest Day of My Life (sung by Jane Powell); [0:50] How Could You Believe Me When I Said I Loved You When You Know I've Been a Liar All My Life? (aka "The Liar Song," sung and danced by Fred Astaire and Jane Powell -- really great number!); [0:57] Too Late Now (sung by Jane Powell, nominated for Best Song Academy Award); [1:05] You're All the World to Me (sung and danced by Fred Astaire, dancing on walls and ceiling of his room); [1:14] I Left My Hat in Haiti (sung by Fred Astaire and Chorus, danced by Fred Astaire, Jane Powell and Chorus; Dee Turnell is said to be one of the dancers in this number); [1:28] What a Lovely Day for a Wedding (sung by Childrens Chorus, then by Keenan Wynn as he walks the streets of London); [1:32] Too Late Now (instumental reprise at end of movie)

Rumpelstiltskin
(aka Cannon Movie Tales: Rumpelstiltskin)
Golan-Globus / Cannon, 1986, Color, 84 minutes, ***

See list of all Cannon Movie Tales

Amy Irving (Yentl, The Fury) stars as the beautiful miller's daughter who spins straw into gold in this spritely, whimsical new full-length version of one of the world's favorite fairytales! Featuring Billy Barty (Foul Play, Tough Guys) as the mischievous, magical little gnome Rumpelstiltskin, this lavish family classic sparkles with music, mirth and sheer storytelling enchantment!

By far the best enactment I've seen of this classic fairy tale. Quite beautifully filmed, and cleverly scripted. Billy Barty absolutely stels the show. Fun film!

Produced by: Menahem Golan and Yoram Globus
Associate Producer: Patricia Ruben
Executive Producer: Itzik Kol
Directed by: David Irving
Screenplay by: David Irving (based on the classic fairy tale by Brothers Grimm)
Music by: Music by Max Robert, Lyrics by Max Robert and Jules Irving
Arranged, Produced and Performed by Kevin Stanton, Spencer Lee and
Frank Barber, courtesy of Red Bus Records (Int.) Ltd.
Choreographer: Dari Shai
Production Designer: Marek Dobrowolski
Art Direction: Charlie Leon
Costume Designer: Debbie Leon
Set Decorator: Albert Segal
Special Effects Supervisor: Carlo De Marchis
Director of Photography: David Gurfinkel
Editor: Tova Neeman

Cast: Amy Irving [Katie], Billy Barty [Rumpelstiltskin], Clive Revill [King Mezzer], Priscilla Pointer [Queen Grizelda], Robert Symonds [Victor], John Moulder Brown [Prince Henry], Yehuda Efroni [Count Flax], Johnny Phillips [Ralph], Jack Messinger [Alf], Michael Schneider [Peasant], Yael Uziely [Emily], Julian Chagrin [Blacksmith], Danny Segev [Clerk], Susan Berlin [Clerk's Wife], Austin Irving, Yael Neeman, Jonathan Gurfinkel [Clerk's Children], Igor Borisov [Cook], Jerry Hyman [Advisor], Joseph Bee [Farmer], Yankale Ben Sira [Guard], Ely Shi [Executioner], Samini Koresh [Midget Driver]

Musical Program: [0:04] When I'm Queen of the Castle (sung by Amy Irving); [0:29] I Need a Miracle (sung by Amy Irving and Stuart Zagnit dubbing for John Moulder-Brown); [0:40] I'm Greedy (sung by Clive Revill and Chorus); [1:04] I Love the Miller's Daughter in counterpoint with When I'm Queen of the Castle (sung by Stuart Zangit dubbing for John Moulder-Brown, Amy Irving and Chorus); [1:07] Baby, Rest an Hour (short excerpt sung by Amy Irving); [1:10] One Little Name (sung by Amy Irving); [1:15] My Name Is Rumpelstiltskin (sung by Billy Barty); Straw Into Gold (sung by various characters throughout the first part of the film, sung by Chorus behind end credits)