Jailhouse Rock
MGM, 1957, B/W, 96 minutes
General release November, 1957

Sent to prison for accidentally killing a man, young Vince Everett (Elvis) takes up singing behind bars. But everything gets "All Shook Up" when he crosses paths with a beautiful record label talent scout in this fast-paced musical drama featuring seven dynamic classics including "I Want to Be Free," "Don't Leave Me Now," "(You're So Square) Baby I Don't Care" and the blistering smash "Jailhouse Rock."
[from back of VHS sleeve]

Produced by: Pandro S. Berman
Associate Producer: Kathryn Hereford
Directed by: Richard Thorpe
Assistant Director: Robert E. Relyea
Screen Play by: Guy Trosper
Based on a Story by: Ned Young
Technical Advisor: Colonel Tom Parker
Music Supervised by: Jeff Alexander
Songs Mostly by:: Mike Stoller and Jerry Leiber
Additional Songs by: Roy C. Bennett, Aaron Schroeder, Abner Silver, Sid Tepper, Ben Weisman
Choreography: Alex Romero, Elvis Presley
Art Directors: William A. Horning and Randall Duell
Set Decorations: Henry Grace, Keogh Gleason
Make-Up by: William Tuttle
Recording Supervisor: Dr. Wesley C. Miller
Special Effects: A. Arnold Gillespie
Director of Photography: Robert Bronner
Filmed in CinemaScope
Film Editor: Ralph E. Winters

Cast: Elvis Presley [Vince Everett], Judy Tyler [Peggy Van Alden], Mickey Shaughnessy [Hunk Houghton], Vaughn Taylor [Mr. Shores], Jennifer Holden [Sherry Wilson], Dean Jones [Teddy Talbot], Anne Neyland [Laury Jackson], Additional Cast: Hugh Sanders [Warden], Mike Stoller [Pianist], Grandon Rhodes [Prof. August Van Alden], Katherine Warren [Mrs. Van Alden], Don Burnett [Mickey Alba], George Cisar [Jake, the Bartender], Glenn Strange [Simpson, Convict], John Indrisano [Convict], Robert Bice [Bardeman, TV Studio Manager], Percy Helton [Sam Brewster], Peter Adams [Jack Lease], William Forrest [Studio Head], Dan White [Paymaster], Robin Raymond [Dotty], John Day [Ken], S. John Launer [Judge], Dick Rich [Guard], Elizabeth Slifer [Cleaning Woman], Gloria Pall [Stripteaser], Fred Coby [Bartender], Frank Kreig [Drunk], William Tannen [Record Distributor], Wilson Wood [Recording Engineer], Tom McKee [TV Director], Donald Kerr [Photographer], Carl Milletaire [Drummond], Francis DeSales [Surgeon], Harry Hines [Hotel Clerk], Dorothy Abbott [Woman in Cafe], Bess Flowers [Party Guest], The Jordanaires [Musicians]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture: Jailhouse Rock / Young and Beautiful (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:10] One More Day (sung by Mickey Shaughnessy); [0:12] Young and Beautiful (sung by Elvis Presley); [0:16] I Want to Be Free (sung by Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires); [0:30] Young and Beautiful (sung by Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires); [0:34] Don't Leave Me Now (ballad version sung by Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires); [0:36] Don't Leave Me Now ("hot" version sung by Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires); [0:51] Treat Me Nice (sung by Elvis Presley with the Jordanaires); [1:04] Jailhouse Rock (production number sung and danced by Elvis Presley and Mens Chorus); [1:18] Baby, I Don't Care (sung by Elvis Presley with the Jordanaires); [1:34] Young and Beautiful (sung by Elvis Presley with the Jordanaires)

Jamboree
(aka Disc Jockey Jamboree)
Warner Bros., 1957, B/W, 86 minutes, ***

"Boy pop singer meets girl pop singer" is the basic plot for this early rock 'n' roll musical, but the main reasons to watch are vintage performances by Fats Domino ("Wait and See"), Jerry Lee Lewis ("Great Balls of Fire"), Carl Perkins ("Glad All Over"), Philly's own Charlie Gracie and even Count Basie and Slim Whitman! Bob Pastine and Kay Medford star.

Producer: Max J. Rosenberg and Milton Subotsky
Director: Roy Lockwood
Screenplay: Leonard Kantor
Musical Composer: Otis Blackwell and Neal Hefti
Art Direction: Paul Barnes
Cinematographer: Jack Etra
Film Editing: Robert Brockman, Anita Posner

Cast: Kay Medford [Grace Shaw], Bob Pastine [Lew Arthur], Paul Carr [Pete Porter], Freda Holloway [Honey Wynn], David King-Wood [Warren Sykes], Jean Martin [Cindy Styles], Tony Travis [Stage Manager], Leonard Schneider [Assistant Stage Manager], Aaron Schroeder [Songwriter], With: Jerry Lee Lewis, Connie Francis [singing voice of Honey Wynn], Carl Perkins, Frankie Avalon, Charlie Gracie, Jodie Sands, Ron Coby, Louie Lymon and The Teenchords, Slim Whitman, The Four Coins, Count Basie and His Orchestra, Joe Williams, Buddy Knox, Jimmy Bowen, Fats Domino, Andy Martin, Rocco and His Saints, Joe Smith, Joe Finan, Keith Sandy, Zenas Sears, Milt Grant, Dick Clark, Barry Kaye, Sandy Singer, Ray Perkins, Gerry Myers, Jocko Henderson, Ed Bonner, Robin Seymour, Dick Whittinghill, Howard Miller, Werner Goetze, Chris Howland, Jack Payne, Jack Jackson

Musical Program: Record Hop Tonight (Sung by Andy Martin, danced by mixed Chorus); Great Balls of Fire (Jerry Lee Lewis Trio); For Children of All Ages (Connie Francis dubbing for Freda Holloway); Glad All Over (Carl Perkins); Who Are We to Say ("Pete and Honey" - Paul Carr and Connie Francis dubbing for Freda Holloway); Teacher's Pet (Frankie Avalon); Siempre (Connie Francis dubbing for Freda Holloway); Cool Baby (Charlie Gracie); Sayonara (Jodie Sands); Toreador (Rob Coby); Your Last Chance (Louie Lymon and The Teenchords); If Not for You (Paul Carr); Unchain My Heart (Slim Whitman); A Broken Promise (The Four Coins); One O'Clock Jump (Count Basie and His Orchestra); I Don't Like You No More (Joe Williams with Count Basie and His Orchestra); Hula Love (Buddy Knox); Cross Over (Jimmmy Bowen); Wait and See (Fats Domino); Twenty-Four Hours a Day ("Pete and Honey" - Paul Carr and Connie Francis dubbing for Freda Holloway)

The Jazz Singer
Warner Bros. / Vitaphone, 1927, B/W, 88 minutes, ***½
Released October, 1927

This is the film that is generally credited as being the first full-length feature "talkie," though that's not entirely true (it wasn't the first "talkie," and it certainly wasn't "all talking" as is often stated). But it is a landmark film in the evolution of sound in pitcures. It jolted all the Hollywood studios into scrambling to install sound in their theaters and basically sounded the death knell for silent films.

The story is about a cantor's son breaking away from tradition and becoming a stage star. Jolson's singing carries the show. Remade in 1953 by Danny Thomas and in 1980 by Neil Diamond (see below).

Producer: none credited
Directed by: Alan Crosland
Assistant Director: Gordon Hollingshead
A Photo-Dramatic Production of Samson Raphaelson's Play
Adaptation: Alfred A. Cohn
Musical Score and Vitaphone Orchestra Directed by: Louis Silvers
Choreography: Ernest Belcher
Special Effects: Nugent Slaughter
Sound: Harvey Cunningham, George Groves
Photography: Hal Mohr
Edited by: Harold McCord
Technicians: Fred Jackman, Lewis Geib, Esdras Hartley, F. N. Murphy, "Alpharetta," Victor Vance

Awards: Academy Award nominations for Best Writing and Best Engineering Effects

Cast: Al Jolson [Jakie Rabinowitz], May McAvoy [Mary Dale], Warner Oland [The Cantor], Eugenie Besserer [Sara Rabinowitz], Otto Lederer [Moisha Yudelson], Bobby Gordon [Jakie Rabinowitz at age 13], Richard Tucker [Harry Lee], Cantor Joseff Rosenblatt [Concert Recital], Additional Cast: William Demarest [Steve Martin], Joseph Discay [The Cantor's singing voice], Myrna Loy [Chorus Girl], Nat Carr [Levi], Carolynne Snowden [Backstage Maid], Roscoe Karns [Agent]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:03] My Gal Sal (sung by Bobby Gordon); [0:05] Waiting for the Robert E. Lee (sung by Bobby Gordon); [0:10] Kol Nidre (sung by Joseph Diskay dubbing for Warner Oland); [0:14] Dirty Hands, Dirty Face (sung by Al Jolson); [0:17] Toot, Toot, Tootsie, Goodbye (sung and whistled by Al Jolson); [0:27] Kaddish (sung by Cantor Joseff Rosenblatt); [0:39] Blue Skies (sung by Al Jolson); [0:41] Blue Skies (rag arrangement sung by Al Jolson); [1:10] Mother of Mine I Still Have You (sung by Al Jolson); [1:23] Kol Nidre (sung by Al Jolson); [1:26] My Mammy (sung by Al Jolson); There are a number of dance scenes featuring May McAvoy and Chorus, but there is no accompanying music other than the background score.

The Jazz Singer
Warner Bros., 1953, Color, 107 minutes, ***
General release January, 1953

Danny Thomas tackles the role played previously by Al Jolson and later by Neil Diamond. He's the son of a cantor who returns home following a stint in the military during the Korean War and decides he wants to pursue a career in the theater. His decision puts him at odds with his father, who wants Thomas to replace him at the synagogue. Peggy Lee and Eduard Franz co-star; songs include "Just One of Those Things" and "Living the Life I Love."

Produced by: Louis F. Edelman
Directed by: Michael Curtiz
Assistant Director: Chuck Hansen
Screen Play by: Frank Davis & Leonard Stern and Lewis Meltzer
Based on the play by Samson Raphaelson
Produced on the stage by Albert Lewis and Max Gordon in association with Sam H. Harris
New Songs: "Living the Life I Love," "I Hear the Music Now," "What Are New Yorkers Made Of" by Sammy Fain and Jerry Seelen
Songs: "Lover" by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart; "Just One of Those Things" by Cole Porter; "I'll String Along with You" by Al Dubin, Harry Warren; "The Birth of the Blues" by B. G. DeSylva, Lew Brown, Ray Henderson; "This Is a Very Special Day" by Peggy Lee
Musical Direction by: Ray Heindorf
Vocal Arrangements by: Norman Luboff
Musical Numbers Staged and Directed by: LeRoy Prinz
Technical Advisor: Rabbi Morton A. Bauman
Art Director: Leo K. Kuter
Costume Design: Howard Shoup
Sound by: C. A. Riggs, David Forrest
Set Decorator: George James Hopkins
Wardrobe by: Howard Shoup
Makeup Artist: Gordon Bau
Director of Photography: Carl Guthrie
Color by Technicolor
Technicolor Color Consultant: Mitchell G. Kovaleski
Film Editor: Alan Crosland, Jr.

Awards: Academy Award nomination for Best Score - Musical (Ray Heindorf and Max Steiner)

Cast: Danny Thomas [Jerry Golding], Peggy Lee [Judy Lane], Mildred Dunnock [Mrs. Golding], Eduard Franz [Cantor Golding], Tom Tully [McGurney], Alex Gerry [Uncle Louie], Allyn Joslyn [George Miller], Harold Gordon [Rabbi Roth], Hal Ross [Joseph], Justin Smith [Phil Stevens], Anitra Stevens [Yvonne], Saul Silverman [singing voice of Eduard Franz]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture: includes vocal excerpt of "Living the Life I Love" (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:02] Hashkivenu (sung by Temple Choir, Saul Silverman dubbing for Eduard Franz, and Danny Thomas); [0:08] Just One of Those Things (sung by Peggy Lee); [0:15] Living the Life I Love (sung by Danny Thomas); [0:24] Hush-A-Bye (excerpt sung by Danny Thomas and Mildred Dunnock); [0:29] Kol Nidre (excerpt sung by Saul Silverman dubbing for Eduard Franz and Temple Choir); [0:30] This Is a Very Special Day (sung by Peggy Lee and Danny Thomas); [0:31] This Is a Very Special Day (sung by Peggy Lee, Danny Thomas and Chorus); [0:37] Oh Moon (sung by Danny Thomas); [0:40] I Hear the Music Now (sung by Peggy Lee and Danny Thomas); [0:42] Velvo Suds (commercial jingle sung by Danny Thomas); [0:50] What Are New Yorkers Made Of (sung and danced by Peggy Lee, Danny Thomas and Chorus); [0:58] Jewish Hymn (excerpt sung by Temple Choir); [1:01] Jewish Hymn (sung by Saul Silverman dubbing for Eduard Franz); [1:19] Lover (sung by Peggy Lee); [1:22] Medley / Montage: I'm Looking Over a Four Leaf Clover / I'll String Along with You / Breezin' Along with the Breeze / If I Could Be with You (One Hour Tonight) / The Birth of the Blues (sung by Danny Thomas); [1:29] This Is a Very Special Day (sung by Peggy Lee and Danny Thomas); [1:35] Hush-A-Bye (sung by Danny Thomas); [1:44] Kol Nidre (sung by Danny Thomas); [1:45] Living the Life I Love (sung by Danny Thomas); Excerpts of several other unidentifed hymns sung by Edward Franz, Danny Thomas and Temple Choir

The Jazz Singer
Paramount, 1980, 115 minutes, ***
Released December, 1980

Though the story is somewhat of a downer, Neil Diamond's update of the by now classic tale is musically exciting. The musical scenes simply jump off the screen, and you'll find it difficult to keep your foot from tapping. The musical staging is outstanding, as well. If you like Neil Diamond, you'll like the film (at least the musical parts). If you don't like Neil Diamond, watch something else. Think of this film as a Neil Diamond concert...

Producer: Jerry Leider
Director: Richard Fleischer
Screenplay: Herbert Baker
(based on the stage musical "The Jazz Singer" by Samson Raphaelson)
Musical Score: Neil Diamond and Leonard Rosenman
Song Score: Neil Diamond, Gilbert Becaud, Doug Rhone, Richard Bennett and Alan Lindgren
Choreographer: Donald McKayle
Production Design: Harry Horner
Art Direction: Spencer Deverell
Set Decoration: Robert De Vestel, Christopher Horner, Ruby R. Levitt, Mark Poll Costume Design: Albert Wolsky
Cinematography: Isidore Mankofsky
Film Editing: Frank J. Urioste, Maury Winetrobe

Cast: Neil Diamond [Jess Robin], Laurence Olivier [Cantor Rabinovitch], Lucie Arnaz [Molly Bell], Catlin Adams [Rivka Rabinovitch], Franklyn Ajaye [Bubba], Paul Nicholas [Keith Lennox], Sully Boyar [Eddie Gibbs], James Booth [Paul Rossini], Luther Waters [Teddy], Rod Gist [Timmy], Oren Waters [Mel], Walter Janowitz [Rabbi Birnbaum], Janet Brandt [Aunt Tillie], John Witherspoon [M.C. at Cinderella Club], Dale Robinette [Tommy], Hank Garrett [Police Sergeant], James Karen [Barney Callahan], Jill Jaress [Cowgirl], Victor Paul [Irate Driver]

Musical Program: (all songs performed by Neil Diamond) America; Adon Olom; You Baby; Love on the Rocks; Amazed and Confused; On the Robert E. Lee; Summerlove; Hello Again; Acapulco; Hey Louise; Songs of Life; Jerusalem; Kol Nidre; My Name Is Yussel; America (reprise)

Jesus Christ, Superstar
Universal, 1973, Color, 103 minutes, ***
Released August, 1973

Innovative musical based on Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice's popular concept album features imaginative settings, marvelous dance numbers and fine performances to depict the events leading up to Christ's crucifixion. Stars Ted Neely, Carl Anderson, Joshua Mostel and Yvonne Elliman; Norman Jewison directs.

Producers: Norman Jewison and Robert Stigwood
Director: Norman Jewison
Screenplay: Norman Jewison and Melvyn Bragg
(based on the rock opera by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice)
Music Director: André Previn
Song Score: Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice
Choreography: Rob Iscove
Production Design: Richard MacDonald
Art Direction: John Clark
Costume Design: Yvonne Blake
Cinematography: Douglas Slocombe
Film Editing: Antony Gibbs

Cast: Ted Neeley [Jesus Christ], Carl Anderson [Judas Iscariot], Yvonne Elliman [Mary Magdalene], Barry Dennen [Pontius Pilate], Bob Bingham [Caiaphas], Larry T. Marshall [Simon Zealotes], Josh Mostel [King Herod], Kurt Yahgjian [Annas], Philip Toubus [Peter], Pi Douglass, Jonathan Wynne, Richard Molinare, Jeffrey Hyslop, Robert LuPone, Thommie Walsh, David Devir, Richard Orbach, Shooki Wagner [Apostles], Darcel Wynne, Sally Neal, Vera Biloshisky, Wendy Maltby, Baayork Lee, Susan Allanson, Ellen Hoffman, Judith Daby, Adaya Pilo, Marcia McBroom, Leeyan Granger, Kathryn Wright, Denise Pence, Wyetta Turner, Tamar Zafria, Riki Oren, Lea Kestin [Women], Zvulun Cohen, Meir Israel, Itzhak Sidranski, David Rfjwan, Amity Razi, Avi Ben-Haim, Haim Bashi, David Duack [Priest], Steve Boockvor, Peter Luria, David Barkan, Danny Basevitch, Cliff Michaelevski, Tom Guest, Stephen Denenberg, Didi Liekov [Roman Soldiers], Doron Gaash, Noam Cohen, Zvi Lehat, Moshe Uziel [Temple Guards]

Musical Program: Overture; Heaven on Their Minds (performed by Carl Anderson); What's the Buzz (performed by Ted Neeley, Yvonne Elliman, and Apostles); Strange Things Mystifying (performed by Ted Neeley, Carl Anderson, Apostles and Apostles' Women); Then We Are Decided (performed by Bob Bingham and Kurt Yaghjian); Everything's Alright (performed by Yvonne Elliman, Ted Neeley, Carl Anderson, The Apostles and Apostles' Women); This Jesus Must Die (performed by Bob Bingham, Kurt Yaghjian, Priests and Crowd); Hosanna (performed by Ted Neeley, Bob Bingham and Crowd); Simon Zealotes (performed by Larry T. Marshall and Crowd); Poor Jerusalem (performed by Ted Neeley); Pilate's Dream (Performed by Barry Dennen); Mentioning My Name; The Temple (performed by Ted Neeley, Crowd and Lepers); My Temple Should Be; I Don't Know How to Love Him (performed by Yvonne Elliman); Damned for All Time / Blood Money (performed by Carl Anderson, Bob Binghma, Kurt Yaghjian and Choir); The Last Supper (performed by Ted Neeley, Carl Anderson and Apostles); Gethsemane (performed by Ted Neeley); The Arrest (performed by Ted Neeley, Philip Toubus, Apostles, Bob Bingham, Kurt Yaghjian, and Crowd); Peter's Denial (performed by Philip Toubus, Yvonne Elliman, Woman, Soldier and Old Man); The Campsite (instrumental); Pilate and Christ (performed by Barry Dennen, Ted Neeley, Soldier and Crowd); King Herod's Song (performed by Joshua Mostel); Could We Start Again Please (performed by Yvonne Elliman, Philip Toubus, The Apostles and Crowd); J.C. and Soldiers (instrumental); Judas' Death (performed by Carl Anderson, Bob Bingham, Kurt Yaghjian and Choir); Trial Before Pilate (performed by Barry Dennen, Ted Neeley, Bob Bingham and Crowd); Superstar (performed by Carl Anderson, Angels and Chorus); The Crucifixion (Performed by Ted Neeley and Crowd); John Nineteen Forty-One

Jolson Sings Again
Columbia, 1949, Color, 96 minutes, ***½
Released August, 1949

The original film, The Jolson Story (see below) was such a huge success that a sequel was inevitable. And this is one of those rare cases where the sequel is just about as good as the original. Very entertaining film with some great singing by one of the most beloved singing stars of all time. Larry Parks is outstanding as Jolson!

"This is the rest of the story of Jolson -- the man who loved to sing... who loved only that -- until he met and married a girl named Julie.
But the love to sing remained stronger -- and so obscured his life with Julie that one day she told him - a man with two loves can't keep both.
He chose her and and quit the show world.
Then one evening -- long afterwards - at a night club party - the crowd recognized him and yelled for a song.
And as he sang, Julie saw the old spell come over him - and knew that singing was all he really wanted.
And while he was still singing -- she got up quietly - walked out of that night club -- and out of his life."

Written and Produced by: Sidney Buchman
Directed by: Henry Levin
Assistant Director: Milton Feldman
Screenplay: Sidney Buchman
Musical Score: George Duning
Orchestrations: Larry Russell
Musical Director: Morris Stoloff
Songs Staged by: Audrene Brier
Music Advisor: Saul Chaplin
Set Director: Walter Holscher
Set Decorator: William Kiernan
Gowns by: Jean Louis
Makeup by: Clay Campbell
Hair Styles by: Helen Hunt
Recording: Dialogue: George Cooper, Music: Philip Faulkner
Re-recording: Richard Olson
Director of Photography: William Snyder
Montage Director: Lawrence W. Butler
Color by Technicolor
Technicolor Color Director: Natalie Kalmus
Associate: Francis Cugat
Film Editor: William Lyon

Awards: Academy Award nominations for Best Story and Screenplay (Sidney Buchman), Best Color Cinematography (William Snyder) and Best Score - Musical (Morris Stoloff and George Duning)

Cast: Larry Parks [Al Jolson], Barbara Hale [Ellen Clark], William Demarest [Steve Martin], Ludwig Donath [Cantor Yoelson], Bill Goodwin [Tom Baron], Myron McCormick [Ralph Bryant], Tamara Shayne [Mama Yoelson], Eric Wilton [Henry], Robert Emmett Keane [Charlie], Frank McLure [Man], Jock Mahoney [Man], Betty Hill [Woman], Marjorie Stapp [Nurse], Nelson Leigh [Theater Manager], Virginia Mullen [Mrs. Bryant], Philip Faulkner Jr. [Sound Mixer], Morris Stoloff [Orchestra Leader], Helen Mowery [Script Girl], Michael Cisney [Writer], Ben Erway [Writer], Martin Garralaga [Mr. Estrada], Dick Cogan [Soldier], Peter Brocco [Captain of Waiters], Al Jolson [singing voice of Al Jolson]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture: Rock-A-Bye Your Baby (With a Dixie Melody) (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:01] Rock-A-Bye Your Baby (With a Dixie Melody) (excerpt sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks); [0:06] Is It True What They Say About Dixie? (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks); [0:08] For Me and My Gal (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks); [0:16] Jewish Hymn (sung by Cantor Yoelson); [0:23] Back in Your Own Backyard (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks); [0:28] Medley / Monatage: I'm Looking Over a Four Leaf Clover / When the Red, Red Robin Comes Bob, Bob Bobbin' Along / Give My Regards to Broadway / Chinatown, My Chinatown / I'm Just Wild About Harry (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks); [0:41] Baby Face (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks); [0:45] After You've Gone (excerpt sung by Al Jolson behind montage); [0:59] I Only Have Eyes for You (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks); [1:04] Sonny Boy (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks); [1:16] Toot, Toot, Tootsie, Goodbye (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks at recording session); [1:17] Toot, Toot, Tootsie, Goodbye (excerpt sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks); [1:20] California Here I Come / You Made Me Love You (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks); [1:24] Let Me Sing and I'm Happy (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks); [1:25] Ma Blushin' Rosie (Ma Rosie Sweet) (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks); [1:26] My Mammy (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks); [1:27] Montage / medley: Swanee / The Spaniard That Blighted My Life (with Chorus) / California Here I Come / About a Quarter to Nine / Anniversary Song / Waiting for the Robert E. Lee / April Showers (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks); [1:31] Pretty Baby / Carolina in the Morning (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks); [1:33] Rock-A-Bye Your Baby with a Dixie Melody (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks)

The Jolson Story
Columbia, 1946, Color, 128 minutes, ***½
Released October, 1946

Larry Parks plays Al Jolson in this biopic of one of the greatest entertainers of all time. Parks spent long hours studying Jolson in person and on screen to be able to impersonate him flawlessly. Jolson recorded the soundtrack, and Parks lip-synced, but he does it so well that by the time the show is over, you think Larry Parks is Jolson! Outstanding portrayal, great film. Wonderful music by Al Jolson!

When you first listen to Jolie today, it takes a bit of getting used to -- his style is so different than anything we've ever heard in the second half of the 20th century. But once you get used to his style and listen to his work for a time, you begin to realize why he was considered the greatest entertainer of the 20th century be many people. He can put an incredible amount of emotion into his voice, and he has a nice, smooth sound. Al Jolson was the first popular music superstar, and he is still quite an amazing artist!

Produced by: Sidney Skolsky
Associate Producer: Gordon S. Griffith
Directed by: Alfred E. Green
Assistant Director: Wilbur McGaugh
Screen Play by: Stephen Longstreet
Adaptation by: Harry Chandlee, Andrew Solt
Musical Director: M. W. Stoloff
Song Score: various
Vocal Arrangements by: Saul Chaplin
Orchestral Arrangements by: Martin Freed
Dances Staged by: Jack Cole
Production Number Directed by: Joseph H. Lewis
Art Direction: Stephen Goosson, Walter Holscher
Set Decorations: William Kiernan, Louis Diage
Gowns by: Jean Louis
Makeup by: Clay Campbell
Hair Styles by: Helen Hunt
Sound Recording by: Hugh McDowell
Music Recording by: Edwin Wetzel
Re-recording by: Richard Olson
Director of Photography: Joseph Walker
Montage Director: Lawrence W. Butler
Filmed in Technicolor
Technicolor Color Director: Natalie Kalmus
Associate: Morgan Padelford
Film Editor: William Lyon

Awards: Academy Awards for Best Score - Musical (Morris Stoloff) and Best Sound Recording (John Livadary); Academy Award nominations for Best Actor (Larry Parks), Best Supporting Actor (William Demarest), Best Color Cinematography (Joseph Walker) and Best Film Editing (William Lyon)

Cast: Larry Parks [Al Jolson], Evelyn Keyes [Julie Benson], William Demarest [Steve Martin], Bill Goodwin [Tom Baron], Ludwig Donath [Cantor Yoelson], Tamara Shayne [Mrs. Yoelson], John Alexander [Lew Dockstader], Jo-Carroll Dennison [Ann Murray], Ernest Cossart [Father McGee], Scotty Beckett [Jolson as a Boy], William Forrest [Dick Glenn], Ann Todd [Ann as a Girl], Edwin Maxwell [Oscar Hammerstein], Emmett Vogan [Jonsey], Eddie Kane [Ziegfeld], Jimmy Lloyd [Roy Anderson], Coulter Irwin [Young Priest], Adelle Roberts [Ingenue], Bob Stevens [Henry], Harry Shannon [Riley, Policeman], Buddy Gorman [Call Boy], Charles Jordan [Assitant Stage Manager], Pierre Watkin [Architect], Lilian Bond [Woman], Eugene Borden [Headwaiter], Eddie Rio [MC], Will Wright [Sourpuss Movie Patron], Arthur Loft [Stage Manager], Edward Keane [Director], Eddie Fetherston [Assistant Stage Manager], Bill Brandt [Orchestra Leader], Pat Lane [Cameraman], Mike Lally [Lab Manager], George Magrill [Gaffer], Helen O'Hara [Dancer-Actress], Jessie Arnold [Wardrobe Woman], Donna Dax [Girl Publicist], Fred Sears [Cutter], Eric Wilton [Harry, Butler], Franklyn Farnum [Man in Audience], Major Sam Harris [Nightclubber], Al Jolson [singing voice of Al Jolson], Rudy Wissler [singing voice of young Al Jolson], Virginia Rees [singing voice of Evelyn Keyes], Saul Silverman [singing voice of Ludwig Donath]

Musical Program: [0:00] Let Me Sing and I'm Happy (sung by Al Jolson behind titles); [0:03] On the Banks of the Wabash (sung by Rudy Wissler dubbing for Scotty Beckett); [0:05] Sabbath Prayer (sung by Temple Choir and Rudy Wissler dubbing for Scotty Beckett); [0:11] Ave Maria (sung by Boys Choir and Rudy Wissler dubbing for Scotty Beckett at St. Mary's Home for Boys in Baltimore); [0:15] When You Were Sweet Sixteen (sung by Rudy Wissler dubbing for Scotty Beckett); [0:16] After the Ball (sung by Rudy Wissler dubbing for Scotty Beckett behind montage); [0:17] By the Light of the Sivery Moon (sung by Rudy Wissler dubbing for Scotty Beckett); [0:20] Blue Bell (sung and whistled by Rudy Wissler dubbing for Scotty Beckett); [0:23] When You Were Sweet Sixteen (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks); [0:27] Ev'ry Little Movement (Has a Meaning of Its Own) (instrumental arrangement danced by two unidentified girls); [0:29] Ma Blushin' Rosie (Ma Rosie Sweet) (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks); [0:36] I Want a Girl (Just Like the Girl That Married Dear Old Dad) (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks with Minstrels); [0:39] unidentified Dixieland number (played by Dixieland band in New Orleans); [0:49] My Mammy (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks); [0:54] I'm Sitting on Top of the World (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks); [0:57] You Made Me Love You (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks); [0:59] Swanee (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks with dancing Chorus); [1:00] Toot, Toot, Tootsie, Goodbye (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks behind traveling montage); [1:02] The Spaniard That Blighted My Life (production number sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks with Ensemble); [1:09] April Showers (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks); [1:12] California Here I Come (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks); [1:14] California Here I Come (sung by Virginia Rees dubbing for Evelyn Keyes imitating Al Jolson); [1:21] Liza (All the Clouds'll Roll Away) (danced by Evelyn Keyes and Mens Chorus, sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks); [1:25] There's a Rainbow 'Round My Shoulder (sung by Al Jolson, excerpt from The Jazz Singer); [1:32] She's a Latin From Manhattan (sung and danced by Evelyn Keyes and Mens Chorus, Virginia Rees dubbing for Evelyn Keyes); [1:33] Avalon (excerpt sung by Al Jolson in backround); [1:35] About a Quarter to Nine (danced by Larry Parks and Evelyn Keyes, sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks); [1:56] Anniversary Song (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks, danced by Ludwig Donath and Tamara Shayne); [1:59] unidentified instrumental (danced by Chorus Girls and single male dancer at night club); [2:02] Waiting for the Robert E. Lee (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks); [2:03] Rock-A-Bye Your Baby with a Dixie Melody (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks); [2:07] April Showers (sung by Al Jolson dubbing for Larry Parks)

Jonathan Livingston Seagull
Paramount, 1973, Color, 114 minutes, ***
Released October, 1973

Like -- dig -- back when we were all flower children, man, and into TM and stuff like that, you know, Jonathan Livingston Seagull came to life in a very popular book. It was a heavy thing, man, and it came to symbolize our inner-spirits, man. Neil Diamond made some really far out music, man, and then this film came out. Far out! Some of the critics and even some viewers tried to put it down, man, but those of us who were cool really dug it, man.

All kidding aside, this is a very beautiful film with great photography and great music!. But, it's certainly not an action-packed adventure, and many viewers (especially today) may find it rather dull (some did then, too, for that matter). So if you're looking for exploding cars and stuff like that, skip it. But if you just want to sit back, relax, meditate and enjoy some truly serene imagery and great music from Neil Diamond, this is the film for you!

The film is based on a book (or maybe the book was released after the film - I'm not sure). The book was very popular. The film is a very different sort of story about a seagull who wants to fly beyond his ability, and must learn the hard way that he is bound by the laws of nature as well as the laws of the flock.

Produced and Directed by: Hall Bartlett
Screenplay: Richard Bach (from his novel)
Music: Neil Diamond
Art Direction: Boris Leven
Special Effects: L.B. Abbott
Animation: Jim Danforth
Special Effects: L. B. Abbott
Cinematography: Jack Couffer
Film Editing: Marshall M. Borden, James Galloway, Frank P. Keller

Awards: Academy Award nominations for Best Cinematography (Jack Couffer) and Best Film Editing (Frank P. Keller)

Cast: James Franciscus [voice of Jonathan], Juliet Mills [voice of Girl], Hal Holbrook [voice of the Elder], Philip Ahn [voice of Chang], David Ladd [voice of Fletcher], Kelly Harmon [voice of Kimmy], Dorothy McGuire [voice of Jonathan's Mother], Richard Crenna [voice of Jonathan's Father]

Musical Program: The entire story is told through music: (all songs performed by Neil Diamond) Prologue [And here begins our story - the sky, the sea, the flock,]; Be [Introduction of Jonathan - his flight and fall]; Flight of the Gull [Jonathan is carried to the heights of his ambition, and to near catastrophe]; Dear Father [Battered, and near death, Jonathan asks for reasons]; Skybird [Returning home to show what he has learned, his acrobatics only serve to anger the flock elders. He is put on trial, and forever...outcast.]; Lonely Looking Sky [Alone and adrift]; The Odyssey (Be - Lonely Looking Sky - Dear Father) [And so begins a journey, an odyssey, a test of the spirit]; Anthem ["Transcend, Purify, Glorious]; Be [Jonathan returns to teach the flock]; Skybird [The Lesson]; Dear Father [Rebuked again by the elders, Jonathan attempts to rally the flock]; Be [Recapitulation and farewell to Fletcher]

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Universal Studios, 1999, Color, 78 minutes, **½
First seen on stage in 1968
Movie released November, 1999

Donny Osmond stars in the title role of the young man sold into slavery by his jealous brothers, but who rises to power in Egypt and manages to save his family's lives, in this lively stage presentation of the Andrew Lloyd Webber/Tim Rice musical. Richard Attenborough, Joan Collins and Maria Friedman also star; songs include "Any Dream Will Do," "Close Every Door to Me," and "Go Go Go Joseph."

Sort of a juvenile presentation of the story of Joseph (you know - the Joseph in The Bible) as told in a "modern-day" setting by flowerchildren. Lots of singing and dancing. Fairly entertaining, at least up to a point. The music is good but forgettable. The story doesn't seem to do Joseph any justice. Overall, it's rather silly and hollow. I think it means well, but seems to trivialize the story; at times it is difficult to decide whether it's a respectful interpretation of the story of Joseph or an off-the-wall parody. But Webber fans (and Osmond fans) will undboubtedly like it.

Produced by: Andrew Lloyd Webber and Andy Picheta
Directed by: David Mallet
Written by: Tim Rice (book)
Music: Music: Andrew Lloyd Webber, Lyrics: Tim Rice
Choreography: Dean McKerras, Dean McKerras
Production Design by: Mark Thompson
Art Direction by: Michael Minas
Costume Design by: Mark Thompson
Makeup: Christine Allsopp, Kiri Mellalieu, Caroline Robinson, Steven Smith, Lynnette Tanner
Hair Stylist: Sharon O'Brien
Sound: Sandy Buchanan, Vicki Cooksley, Adam Crawford, Dene Harris, Nick Look, Craig Lundy, John MacGibbon, Stacey Pilcher, John Spelman
Cinematography: Nic Knowland
Special Effects: Costas Charitou (Rushes Postproduction, Ltd.)
Film Editing: Dave Gardener, Rose Landfield, David Mallet, Nick Morris

Cast: Donny Osmond [Joseph], Maria Friedman [Narrator], Richard Attenborough [Jacob], Joan Collins [Mrs. Potiphar], Christopher Biggins [The Baker], Robert Torti [Pharaoh], Alex Jennings [Butler], Nicholas Colicos [Reuben], Ian McNeice [Potiphar], Jeff Blumenkrantz [Simeon], David J. Higgins [Levi], Patrick Clancey [Isaachar], Shaun Henson [Napthali], Martin Callaghan [Asher], Sebastien Torkia [Dan], Michael Small [Zebulun], Peter Challis [Gad], Nick Holmes [Benjamin], Gerry McIntyre [Judah], Amanda Courtney-Davies [Apache Dancer / Wife], Nikki Belsher, Sandi Birch, Zoe Hardman, Jocelyn Hawkyard, Nicola Keen, Brenda Newhouse, Gabrielle Noble, Lucie Pankhurst, Lisa Stevens, Suzanne Thomas [Wives], Helen Baker, Suzy Boyle, Denise Cresswell, Jason Davies, Alison Jenkins, Nichola Filskue, Paul Neanm, Claire Terri, Rebecca Trelease, Louise Tomkins, Drew Varley, Bryn Walters, Rob Walker, Helen York [Gogo Dancer], Linley van Echten, Jodi Vuleta [Chorus], Rachel Meurk, Anna van Echten, Hayley Watson, Natasha Williams [Child Chorus], Debbie Bundy, Matthew Cuts, Wayne Fowkes, Sarah Mogg [Additional Players]

Musical Program: Prologue; Any Dream Will Do; Jacob and Sons / Joseph's Coat; Joseph's Dreams; Poor, Poor Joseph; One More Angel in Heaven; Potiphar; Close Every Door; Go, Go, Go Joseph; Pharaoh Story; Poor, Poor Pharaoh; Song of the King (Seven Fat Cows); Pharaoh's Dreams Explained; Stone the Crows; Those Cannaan Days; The Brothers Come to Egypt / Grovel, Grovel; Who's the Thief?; Benjamin Calypso; Joseph All the Time; Jacob in Egypt; Finale: Any Dream Will Do / Give Me My Colored Coat

Julia Misbehaves
MGM, 1948, B/W, 99 minutes, ***½
Released August, 1948

Greer Garson lets down her beautiful red tresses and kicks up her heels in this crazy comedy. And she sings and dances! She plays an English dance hall girl who is always out of money but manages to get by on her charm. When she learns her daughter, whom she left with her husband as a baby 20 years ago, is getting married, she embarks for France immediately.

Onboard the ship crossing the channel, she meets Fred Gennochio (Cesar Romero) and his family of acrobats. The acrobats are to put on a show onboard ship, and when Fred's mother takes ill, Greer agress to take her place in what becomes an uprorious comic disaster. Fred takes a shine to her, but she pushes on to France and moves into her ex-husband's (Walter Pidgeon) home, completely univited and unwanted - much to the irriation of Pidgeon's stodgy mother (Lucile Watson). Greer and daughter (Elizabeth Taylor) quickly become friends, and when Greer finds out that Taylor is not really in love with her fiancé, she sets out to put things straight. And while she's at it, she might as well win her husband back again, too! Great fun - don't miss it!

Producer: Everett Riskin
Director: Jack Conway
Screenplay: William Ludwig, Harry Ruskin and Arthur Wimperis
(based on the novel The Nutmeg Tree by Margery Sharp)
Musical Score: Adolph Deutsch
Song Score: Jerry Seelan and Adolph Deutsch; song "When You're Playing with Fire" by Jerry Seelen, Hal Borne and Adolph Deutsch
Art Direction: Cedric Gibbons, Daniel B. Cathcart
Set Decoration: Edwin B. Willis
Costume Design: Irene
Special Effects: Warren Newcombe
Cinematography: Joseph Ruttenberg
Film Editing: John Dunning

Cast: Greer Garson [Julia Packett], Walter Pidgeon [William Sylvester Packett], Peter Lawford [Ritchie Lorgan], Cesar Romero [Fred Gennochio], Elizabeth Taylor [Susan Packett], Lucile Watson [Mrs. Packett], Nigel Bruce [Col. Willowbrook], Mary Boland [Mrs. Gennochio], Reginald Owen [Bennie Hawkins], Ian Wolfe [Hobson], Ted DeWayne, Henry Monzello, William Snyder, Ray Saunders, Michael Kent [Acrobatic Troupe], Phyllis Morris [Daisy], Edmund Breon [Jamie], Fritz Feld [Pepito], Marcelle Corday [Gabby], Veda Ann Borg [Louise], Aubrey Mather [Vicar], Henry Stephenson [Lord Pennystone], Winifred Harris [Lady Pennystone], Stanley Fraser [Pawn Shop Clerk], Victor Wood [Postman], Herbert Wyndham [Piano Player in Pub], Sidney D'Albrook [Waiter in Pub], Jimmy Aubrey [Drunk], Roland Dupree [French Messenger], Alex Goudavich [Bellhop], Andre Charlot [Stage Doorman], Joanee Wayne [The Head], Mitchell Lewis [Train Official], Alphonse Martell [Frenchman in Theater], Torben Meyer [Commissar], James Logan [Moving Man], Connie Leon, Almira Sessions [Women in Street], Jean Del Val [Croupier], Albert Pallot [Bartender], Ottola Nesmith, Nan Boardman [Salesladies], Elspeth Dudgeon [Woman in Pawn Shop], Bertha Feducha [Woman in Theater], George Volck [Urchin], James Fairfax, Harry Allen, Cyril Thornton, Jim Finlayson [Bill Collectors], Joi Lansing, Lola Albright, Gail Langford, Patricia Walker, Shirley Ballard, Elaine Sterling, Ruth Hall, Marjorie Jackson [Mannequins], Art Foster, George Goldsmith, David Thursby [English Sailors], Kay Norton, Fern Eggen, Susan Perry [Girls in Hotel Lobby], Bess Flowers [Gambling Casino Extra]

Musical Program: [0:20] When You're Playing with Fire (sung by Greer Garson with acrobats in burning building skit); [0:23] Oh! What a Difference the Navy's Made to Me (sung and danced by Greer Garson); [0:52] (My) Wonderful One (sung by Walter Pidgeon; recurring theme throughout film)


Greer Garson, Peter Lawford and Elizabeth Taylor

Jumbo
(aka Billy Rose's Jumbo)
Euterpe-Arwin / MGM, 1962, Color, 127 minutes, ***
Released December, 1962

Splashy and sensational filmed version of Billy Rose's 1930s circus extravaganza benefits from a great Rodgers and Hart score, Busby Berkeley's magnificent musical sequences (his final filmwork), and spirited performances from Doris Day, Stephen Boyd, Jimmy Durante, and Martha Raye.

The Doris Day Collection, Vol. 1 DVD Box Set (shown right) contains this film and Calamity Jane, The Glass Bottom Boat, Love Me or Leave Me, Lullaby of Broadway, The Pajama Game, Please Don't Eat the Daisies, Young Man with a Horn.

Produced by: Joe Pasternak and Martin Melcher
Associate Producer: Roger Edens
Directed by: Charles Walters
Assistant Director: William Shanks
Second Unit Director: Busby Berkeley
Screen Play by: Sidney Sheldon
Based on the Musical Play Produced by Billy Rose at the New York Hippodrome
Book by Ben Hecht and Charles MacArthur
Music and Lyrics by: Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart
Songs: "My Romance," "The Most Beautiful Girl in the World," "Little Girl Blue," "Over and Over Again," "Circus on Parade," "Why Can't I?" "This Can't Be Love"
Music Supervised and Conducted by: George Stoll
Orchestrations: Conrad Salinger, Leo Arnaud and Robert Van Eps
Vocal Arrangements: Bobby Tucker
Circus Acts Coordinated by: Al Dobritch
Art Direction: George W. Davis and Preston Ames
Set Decoration: Henry Grace, Hugh Hunt
Costumes by: Morton Haack
Hair Styles by: Sydney Guilaroff
Make-Up Created by: William Tuttle
Recording Supervisor: Franklin Milton
Director of Photography: William H. Daniels
Special Visual Effects: A. Arnold Gillespie, J. McMillan Johnson, Robert R. Hoag
Filmed in Panavision and Metrocolor
Color Consultant: Charles K. Hagedon
Film Editor: Richard W. Farrell

Awards: Academy Award nomination for Best Adapted Score (George Stoll)

Cast: Doris Day [Kitty Wonder], Stephen Boyd [Sam Rawlins], Jimmy Durante [Pop Wonder], Martha Raye [Lulu], Dean Jagger [John Noble], Joseph Waring [Harry], Lynn Wood [Tina], Charles Watts [Ellis], James Chandler [Parsons], Robert Burton [Madison], Wilson Wood [Hank], Norman Leavitt [Eddie], Grady Sutton [Driver], Sydney the Elephant [Jumbo], John Hart [Marshal], Roy Engel [Reporter], Jack Boyle [Reporter], Robert B. Williams [Deputy], Sue Casey [Dottie], Fred Cob [Andy], William Hines [Roustabout], Michael Kostrick [Michaels], Ralph Lee [Perry], Paul Wexler [Sharpie], Otto Reichow [Hans], Billy Barty [Joey], Chuck Haren [Lennie], J. Lewis Smith [Dick], The Pedrolas, The Wazzans, The Hannefords, The Barbettes [Circus Performers]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:02] The Circus on Parade (Stephen Boyd, Men's Chorus); [0:10] Over and Over Again (Doris Day and Chorus); [0:21] The Circus on Parade (Doris Day, Martha Raye, Jimmy Durante); [0:53] Why Can't I? (Doris Day and Martha Raye); [1:04] This Can't Be Love (Doris Day); [1:16] The Most Beautiful Girl in the World (Stephen Boyd); [1:28] My Romance (Doris Day); [1:32] The Most Beautiful Girl in the World (Jimmy Durante); [1:41] Little Girl Blue (Doris Day); [1:51] Finale medley consisting of many of the previously listed songs


"What elephant? I don't see no elephant!"

Based on Rudyard Kipling's Mowgli character, the "mancub" raised by wolves in the Indian jungle. As Mowgli grows into manhood he becomes curious about his origins and finds he is drawn to his own kind. His friend Baloo reluctantly agrees to guide him to the man village, and many adventures and encounters with jungle creatures occur along the way.

Producer: Walt Disney
Production Manager: Don Duckwall
Directed by: Wolfgang Reitherman
Story: Larry Clemmons, Ralph Wright, Ken Anderson, Vance Gerry
Inspired by the Rudyard Kipling "Mowgli" Stories
Directing Animators: Milt Kahl, Ollie Johnston, Frank Thomas, John Loundsbery
Layout: Don Griffith, Basil Davidovich, Tom Codrick, Dale Barnhart, Sylvia Roemer
Background Styling: Al Dempster
Music: George Bruns
Orchestration: Walter Sheets
Songs: Robert B. Sherman and Richard M. Sherman
"The Bear Necessities" (by) Terry Gilkyson
Sung by: Phil Harris
Sound: Robert O. Cook
Color by Technicolor
Music Editor: Evelyn Kennedy
Film Editors: Tom Acosta, Norman Carlisle

Awards: Nominated for Best Song Academy Award ("The Bear Necessities")

Cast: (voices) Phil Harris ["Baloo" the Bear], Sebastian Cabot ["Bagheera" the Panther], Louis Prima ["King Louie" of the Apes], George Sanders ["Shere Khan" the Tiger], Sterling Holloway ["Kaa" the Snake], J. Pat O'Malley ["Colonel Hathi" the Elephant], Bruce Reitherman ["Mowgli" the Man Cub], Verna Felton, Clint Howard [Elephants], Chad Stuart, Lord Tim Hudson [Vultures], John Abbott, Ben Wright [Wolves], Darleen Carr [The Girl]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:13] Colonel Hathi's March (The Elephant Song) (sung by J. Pat O'Malley, Verna Felton and Clint Howard with the Disney Studio Chorus); [0:25] The Bare Necessities (sung by Phil Harris and Bruce Reitherman); [0:32] I Wan'na Be Like You (The Monkey Song) (sung by Louis Prima, Phil Harris and Bruce Reitherman); [0:44] The Bare Necessities (reprised by Bruce Reitherman); [0:48] Colonel Hathi's March (reprised by J. Pat O'Malley and the Disney Studio Chorus); [0:55] Trust in Me (The Python's Song) (sung by Sterling Holloway); [1:04] That's What Friends Are For (The Vulture Song) (sung by Chad Stuart, Lord Tim Hudson, Digby Wolfe, Thurl Ravenscroft and Bruce Reitherman); [1:13] My Own Home (The Jungle Book Theme) (sung by Darleen Carr); [1:17] The Bare Necessities (reprised by Phil Harris and Sebastian Cabot)

Jupiter's Darling
MGM, 1955, Color, 96 minutes, ***
Released February, 1955

This is what really happened when Hannibal attacked Rome! Fun film; once again Esther Williams demonstrates her wonderful sense of comedy. She steals the show! Marge and Gower's elephant number, "The Life of an Elephant," is really cute.

"In 216 B.C., Hannibal the Barbarian marched on Rome. The history of this great march has always been confused... This picture will do nothing to clear it up."

Produced by: George Wells
Directed by: George Sidney
Assistant Director: George Rhein
Screen Play by: Dorothy Kingsley
Based on the Play "Road to Rome" by Robert E. Sherwood
Music by: Burton Lane
Lyrics by: Harold Adamson
Music Arranged and Conducted by: David Rose
Musical Supervision: Saul Chaplin
Vocal Supervision: Jeff Alexander
Choreography by: Hermes Pan
Art Directors: Cedric Gibbons and Urie McCleary
Set Decorations: Edwin B. Willis, Hugh Hunt
Costumes by: Helen Rose and Walter Plunkett
Hair Styles by: Sydney Guilaroff
Make-Up Created by: William Tuttle
Recording Supervisor: Wesley C. Miller
Directors of Photography: Paul C. Vogel, Charles Rosher
Special Effects: A. Arnold Gillespie, Warren Newcombe
Filmed in CinemaScope and Eastman Color
Color Consultant: Alvoro Eiseman
Film Editor: Ralph E. Winters

Cast: Esther Williams [Amytis], Howard Keel [Hannibal], Marge Champion [Meta], Gower Champion [Varius], Richard Haydn [Horatio], George Sanders [Fabius Maximus], William Demarest [Mago], Norma Varden [Fabia], Douglas Dumbrille [Scipio], Henry Corden [Carthalo], Michael Ansara [Maharbal], Martha Wentworth [Widow Titus], John Olszewski [Principal Swimming Statue], The Swimming Cherubs [Themselves], Additional Cast: Chris Alcaide [Ballo], Tom Monroe [Outrider], Bruno Ve Sota [Webb], Paul Maxey [Lucullus], William Tannen [Roman Courier], Alberto Morin [Arrow Maker], Richard Hale [Auctioneer], Frank Jaquet [Senator], Paul "Tiny" Newlan [Roman Captain], Jack Shea [Drunken Guard], Mitchell Kowal [Sentry], Frank Radcliffe [Specialty], Mort Mills, Gene Roth, Michael Dugan [Guards], Jo Ann Greer [singing voice of Esther Williams]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:01] Horatio's Narration (sung and spoken by Richard Haydn, continued throughout film); [0:09] If This Be Slav'ry (sung by Gower Champion, danced by Marge and Gower); [0:19] I Have a Dream (sung by Esther Williams (dubbed by Jo Ann Greer) while frolicking with statues at poolside and underwater); [0:28] Hannibal's Victory March (sung by Howard Keel and Mens Chorus); [0:36] I Never Trust a Woman (sung by Howard Keel); [0:49] Don't Let This Night Get Away (sung by Howard Keel); [0:51] Hannibal's Victory March (sung by Mens Chorus); [1:04] The Life of an Elephant (sung and danced by Marge and Gower Champion with Elephants); [1:34] Finale medley: Hannibal's Victory March / The Life of an Elephant / I Have a Dream (sung by Howard Keel, Jo Ann Greer dubbing for Esther Williams, Marge and Gower Champion and Company)

Just Around the Corner
20th Century-Fox, 1938, B/W, 70 minutes, **½
Released November, 1938

The let's-put-on-a-show story line may be a bit tired, but the music isn't. This film contains two of Shirley's best numbers: "This Is a Happy Little Ditty" (with Bert Lahr and Joan Davis) and "I Love to Walk in the Rain" (with Bill Robinson).

In Charge of Production: Darryl F. Zanuck
Associate Producer: David Hempstead
Directed by: Irving Cummings
Screen Play by: Ethel Hill, J. P. McEvoy and Darrell Ware
From an origianal story by Paul Gerard Smith ("The Lucky Penny")
Musical Direction: Louis Silvers
Song Score: Walter Bullock and Harold Spina
Dance Direction: Nick Castle, Geneva Sawyer
Art Direction: Bernard Herzbrun, Boris Levin
Set Decorations by: Thomas Little
Costumes: Gwen Wakeling
Sound: George Leverett, Roger Heman
Photography: Arthur Miller
Film Editor: Walter Thompson

Cast: Shirley Temple [Penny], Joan Davis [Kitty], Charles Farrell [Jeff Hale], Amanda Duff [Lola], Bill Robinson [Corporal Jones], Bert Lahr [Gus], Franklin Pangborn [Waters], Cora Witherspoon [Aunt Julia Ramsby], Claude Gillingwater, Sr. [Samuel G. Henshaw], Marilyn Knowlden [Gwendolyn], Brewster Twins [Themselves]

Musical Program: [0:00] Just Around the Corner (sung by Chorus behind titles); [0:12] This Is a Happy Little Ditty (sung and danced by Shirley Temple, Joan Davis, Bert Lahr and Bill Robinson); [1:03] Brass Buttons and Epaulettes (sung by Bill Robinson, danced by Bill Robinson and Doormen); [1:05] I Love to Walk in the Rain (sung by Shirley Temple and Chorus, danced by Shirley Temple and Bill Robinson)

Just for You
Paramount, 1952, Color, 95 minutes, ***
Released October, 1952

Widower Bing Crosby has his hands full trying to juggle his Broadway producer job, his engagement to Jane Wyman, and the demands of raising two teenagers in this spry musical comedy. Songs include "Zing a Little Zong," "I'll Si-Si Ya in Bahia" and the title tune. With Natalie Wood, Robert Arthur, Ethel Barrymore.

Produced by: Pat Duggan
Directed by: Elliott Nugent
Screen Play by: Robert Carson
Based on "Famous" by Stephen Vincent Benet
Music Direction: Emil Newman
Vocal Arrangements: Joseph J. Lilley
Songs: Music by Harry Warren, Lyrics by Leo Robin
Choreography by: Helen Tamiris
Art Direction: Hal Pereira and Roland Anderson
Set Decoration: Sam Comer and Ray Moyer
Women's Clothes: Edith Head
Men's Clothes: Yvonne Wood
Makeup Supervision: Wally Westmore
Sound Recording: Harry Lundgren and John Cope
Director of Photography: George Barnes
Special Photographic Effects: Gorgon Jennings and Paul Lerpae
Process Photography: Farciot Edouart
Color by Technicolor
Technicolor Color Consultant: Richard Mueller
Edited by: Ellsworth Hoagland

Awards: Nominated for Best Song Academy Award ("Zing a Little Zong")

Cast: Bing Crosby [Jordan Blake], Jane Wyman [Carolina Hill], Ethel Barrymore [Allida de Bronkhart], Robert Arthur [Jerry Blake], Natalie Wood [Barbara Blake], Cora Witherspoon [Mrs. Angevine], Ben Lessey [Georgie Polansky], Art Smith [Leo], Regis Toomey [Hodges], Leon Tyler [David McKenzie], Willis Bouchey [Hank Ross], Herb Vigran [George], Nancy Hale [Guest], Franklyn Farnum [Cook], Brick Sullivan [Policeman], Buck Harrington [Police Sergeant], Jack Mulhall [Major], Max Keith [Stage Manager], Robert S. Scott [Lieutenant], Irene Martin [Member of USO Troupe], Daniel Nagrin, Miriam Pandor, Florence Lessing [Specialty Dancers], Bess Flowers [Woman], Mary Bayless [Woman]

Musical Program: [0:00] Just for You / Zing a Little Zong (medley sung by Chorus behind titles); [0:02] I'll Si-Si Ya in Bahia (sung and danced by Bing Crosby and Chorus); [0:11] He's Just Crazy for Me (Jane Wyman); [0:14] Call Me Tonight (excerpt sung by Robert Arthur and Leon Tyler); [0:15] Call Me Tonight (sung by Bing Crosby); [0:19] Checkin' My Heart (sung and danced by Jane Wyman and Chorus); [0:33] Zing a Little Zong (sung and danced by Bing Crosby, Jane Wyman and Chorus); [0:58] The Live Oak Tree (sung and danced by Bing Crosby and School Girls); [1:03] The Maiden of Guadalupe (sung by Jane Wyman and Chorus, danced by Daniel Nagrin, Miriam Pandor, Florence Lessing and Chorus); [1:19] On the 10:10 (From Ten-Ten-Tennessee) (sung and danced by Bing Crosby and Ben Lessy); [1:32] The Ol' Spring Fever (Bing Crosby); [1:38] I'll Si-Si Ya in Bahia (sung by Bing Crosby and Chorus Girls); [1:42] Zing a Little Zong (Bing Crosby, Jane Wyman and Chorus)