Pagan Love Song
MGM, 1950, Color, 76 minutes, **½
Released December, 1950

Lively musical romance with Howard Keel as a teacher in Tahiti who falls for American Esther Williams, whom he believes to be an island native. Rita Moreno co-stars in this MGM production showcasing dazzling swimming choreography and songs like "Singing in the Sun", "Tahiti" and "The House of the Singing Bamboo."

Produced by: Arthur Freed
Associate Producer: Ben Feiner, Jr.
Directed by: Robert Alton
Screen Play by: Robert Nathan and Jerry Davis
Based on the Book Tahiti Landfall by William S. Stone
Music Director: Adolph Deutsch
Music by: Harry Warren
Lyrics by: Arthur Freed
"Pagan Love Song" by Nacio Herb Brown and Arthur Freed
Musical Direction: Adolph Deutsch
Vocal Arrangements: Robert Tucker
Orchestrations: Conrad Salinger
Art Directors: Cedric Gibbons and Randall Duell
Set Decorations: Edwin B. Willis
   Associate: Jack D. Moore
Costumes by: Helen Rose
Hair Styles Designed by: Sydney Guilaroff
Make-Up Created by: William J. Tuttle
Recording Supervisor: Douglas Shearer
Cinematography: Charles Rosher
Special Effects: A. Arnold Gillespie, Warren Newcombe
Color by Technicolor
Technicolor Color Consultants: Henri Jaffa, James Gooch
Film Editor: Adrienne Fazan

Cast: Esther Williams [Mimi Bennett], Howard Keel [Hazard Endicott], Minna Gombell [Kate Bennett], Rita Moreno [Terru], Charles Mauu [Tavae], Philip Costa [Manu], Dione Leilani [Tani], Charles Freund [Papera], Marcelle Corday [Countess Mariani], Sam Maikai [Tua], Helen Rapoza [Angele], Birdie DeBolt [Mama Ruau], Bill Kaliloa [Mata], Carlo Cook [Mons. Bouchet], Betty Wand [singing voice of Esther Williams for "The Sea of the Moon" and "The House of the Singing Bamboo" finale]

Musical Program: [0:00] Pagan Love Song (sung by Chorus behind titles); [0:03] Pagan Love Song (sung by Chorus); [0:11] The House of the Singing Bamboo (sung by Howard Keel); [0:13] The House of the Singing Bamboo (sung by Chorus); [0:17] Singing in the Sun (sung by Howard Keel); [0:21] The House of the Singing Bamboo (reprised by Howard Keel); [0:37] Etiquette (sung by Howard Keel and Children); [0:40] Singing in the Sun (sung by Chorus, Esther Williams and Swimming Ensemble); [0:50] Why Is Love So Crazy (sung by Howard Keel); [0:53] Singing in the Sun (sung by Chorus); [0:54] Tahiti (sung by Rita Moreno and Chorus); [0:58] The Sea of the Moon (sung by Betty Wand dubbing for Esther Williams); [1:07] Pagan Love Song (sung by Howard Keel and Chorus; danced by Chorus; Esther Williams and Howard Keel Swimming); [1:14] The House of the Singing Bamboo (sung by Children, Howard Keel and Chorus)

Lerner and Loewe's Broadway smash became the first and only musical undertaking for Clint Eastwood, who stars alongside Lee Marvin as two corners of a love triangle involved with beautiful Jean Seberg and partners in a bizarre financial enterprise in Gold Rush-era California. Songs include "They Call the Wind Maria", "I Talk to the Trees" and "I'm on My Way". Directed by Joshua Logan.

Dirty Harry sings to trees! Lee Marvin croaks out a love song!

This is a really fun film. If you haven't seen it, you're missing out on some great comedy. Clint Eastwood and partner Lee Marvin wonder how much gold dust falls through the cracks in the floors of the saloons of the mining town, so they begin to dig a virtual honeycomb of tunnels under the entire town! It makes The Great Escape look like child's play. And there are a lot of strange goings on in a mining town, too, adding to the fun. Great fun, lots of laughs and the beautiful song "They Call the Wind Maria" sung by a mangy bunch of miners! Don't miss it!

Produced by: Alan Jay Lerner
Associate Producer: Tom Shaw
Directed by: Joshua Logan
Screenplay and Lyrics by: Alan Jay Lerner
Based upon the musical play "Paint Your Wagon" presented on the stage by Cheryl Crawford
Adaptation by: Paddy Chayefsky
Music by: Frederick Loewe
Music for Additional Songs by: Andre Previn
Choral Arrangements and Music Assistant to the Producer: Joseph J. Lilley
Ochestral Music Scored and Conducted by: Nelson Riddle
Choral Music Conducted by: Roger Wagner
Song Score: Alan Jay Lerner, Frederick Loewe and André Previn
Choreography: "Gold Fever" and "Best Things," Jack Baker
Costumes and Production Designed by: John Truscott
Art Director: Carl Braunger
Set Decorator: James I. Berkey
Costume Coordinator: Anne Laune
Costume Supervisor: Bill Jobe
Makeup: Frank McCoy
Hairdresser: Vivian Zavitz
Director of Photography: William A. Fraker
Special Effects: Maurice Ayers and Larry Hampton
Color by Technicolor, Filmed in Panavision
Film Editor: Robert C. Jones

Awards: Academy Award nomination for Best Score (Nelson Riddle)

Cast: Lee Marvin [Ben Rumson], Clint Eastwood ["Pardner"], Jean Seberg [Elizabeth], Harve Presnell ["Rotten Luck Willie"], Ray Walston ["Mad Jack" Duncan], Tom Ligon [Horton Fenty], Alan Dexter [Parson], William O'Connell [Horace Tabor], Ben Baker [Haywood Holbrook], Alan Baxter [Mr. Fenty], Paula Trueman [Mrs. Fenty], Robert Easton [Atwell], Geoffrey Norman [Foster], H. B. Haggerty [Steve Bull], Terry Jenkins [Joe Mooney], Karl Bruck [Schermerhorn], John Mitchum [Jacob Woodling], Sue Casey [Sarah Woodling], Eddie Little Sky [Indian], Harvey Parry [Higgins], H. W. Gim [Wong], William Mims [Frock-Coated Man], Roy Jenson [Hennessey], Pat Hawley [Clendennon], Anita Gordon [singing voice of Jean Seberg], The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band [Vocals]

Musical Program: [0:00] I'm On My Way (sung by Mens Chorus offscreen behind titles); [0:07] I'm On My Way (sung by Mens Chorus offscreen); [0:09] I Still See Elisa (sung by Clint Eastwood); [0:16] The First Thing You Know (sung by Lee Marvin); [0:18] Hand Me Down That Can o' Beans (sung by Lee Marvin, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band and Chorus, danced by the Miners); [0:25] They Call the Wind Maria (sung by Harve Presnell and Mens Chorus); [0:40] Whoop-Ti-Ay (sung by the Miners [Chorus] while Ben is being cleaned up for the wedding); [0:51] A Million Miles Away Behind the Door (sung by Anita Gordon dubbing for Jean Seberg); [1:07] I Talk to the Trees (sung by Clint Eastwood); [1:11] There's a Coach Comin' In (sung by Chorus for the Miners); [1:27] Intermission; [1:34] The Gospel of No Name City (sung by Alan Dexter); [1:45] Best Things (sung by Lee Marvin, Clint Eastwood, Pat Hawley, Geoffrey Norman and Ray Walston); [1:54] Wand'rin' Star (sung by Lee Marvin and the Miners [Chorus]); [2:17] Gold Fever (sung by Clint Eastwood, the Miners and Dance Hall Girls); [2:27] The Gospel of No Name City (sung by Chorus); [2:36] I'm On My Way (sung by Chorus); [2:38] Exit Medley: excerpts of most songs from the film

Labor relations take on a whole new meaning in George Abbott's filming of the hit Broadway musical, with garment worker activist Doris Day and factory foreman John Raitt playing the enemies-turned-lovers. "Steam Heat", "Hernando's Hideaway" and "I'm Not at All in Love" are among the memorable Adler / Ross tunes enhanced by Bob Fosse's choreography. Special video edition includes outtakes of the unused "The Man Who Invented Love" number and original theatrical trailers for Day's "Romance on the High Seas" and "Calamity Jane", and Adler and Ross' "Damn Yankees".

A fun film. Doris is cute and feisty. Carol Haney plays a prominent role, and we get a rare opportunity to see her really do her stuff, especially in the big hit "Hernando's Hideaway." See what really goes on in a pajama factory!

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

Produced and Directed by: George Abbott and Stanley Donen
Associate Producers: Frederick Brisson, Robert E. Griffith, Harold S. Prince
Assistant Director: Russ Llewellyn
Screen Play by: George Abbott and Richard Bissell
Based Upon the Play "Tha Pajama Game;" Book by George Abbott and Richard Bissell from Richard Bissell's novel "7½ Cents;" Music and Lyrics by Richard Adler and Jerry Ross; Original Stage Production Directed by George Abbott and Jerome Robbins; Produced by Brisson, Griffith and Prince
Music and Lyrics by: Richard Adler and Jerry Ross
Orchestral Arrangements: Nelson Riddle and Buddy Bregman
Vocal Arrangements: Charles Henderson
Technical Advisor: Weldon Pajama Company
Choreography by: Bob Fosse
Art Director: Malcolm Bert
Set Decorator: William Kuehl
Costumes Designed by: William and Jean Eckart
Assisted by: Frank Thompson
Makeup Artist: Gordon Bau
Sound by: M. A. Merrick, Dolph Thomas
Director of Photography: Harry Stradling
Filmed in WarnerColor
Film Editor: William Ziegler

Cast: Doris Day [Kate "Babe" Williams], John Raitt [Sid Sorokin], Carol Haney [Gladys Hotchkiss], Eddie Foy, Jr. [Vernon Hines], Reta Shaw [Mabel], Barbara Nichols [Poopsie], Thelma Pelish [Mae], Jack Straw [Prez], Ralph Dunn [Hasler], Owen Martin [Max], Jackie Kelk [First Helper], Ralph Chambers [Charlie], Mary Stanton [Brenda], Buzz Miller, Kenneth LeRoy [Featured Dancers], Additional Cast: Ralph Volkie [Second Helper], Jack Waldron [Salesman], Franklin Fox [Pop Williams], William A. Forester [Joe], Peter Gennaro [Dancer], Elmore Henderson [Waiter], Fred Villani [Tony the Headwaiter], Kathy Marlowe [Holly], Otis Griffith [Otis]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (includes excerpts of "Hey There", "Fernando's Hideaway", "The Pajama Game" (played by Orchestra, some parts sung by Chorus); [0:01] The Pajama Game (performed by Ensemble); [0:03] Racing with the Clock (sung by Ensemble); [0:11] I'm Not At All in Love (sung by Doris Day); [0:17] I'll Never Be Jealous Again (sung and danced by Eddie Foy, Jr. and Rita Shaw); [0:26] Hey There (sung by John Raitt); [0:36] Once-a-Year Day (sung by John Raitt, Doris Day and Ensemble; danced by Carol Haney and Ensemble); [0:43] Small Talk (sung by John Raitt and Doris Day); [0:48] There Once Was a Man (sung by Doris Day and John Raitt); [0:54] Racing with the Clock (reprised by Ensemble during slow-down); [0:58] Steam Heat (sung and danced by Carol Haney, Buzz Miller and Kenneth LeRoy); [1:08] Hey There (sung by Doris Day); [1:16] Hernando's Hideaway (sung and danced by Carol Haney with John Raitt and Ensemble); [1:31] Seven and a Half Cents (performed by Jack Straw, Doris Day and Ensemble); [1:39] "The Sleep Tight Fashion Parade" (performed by Company)

Pajama Party
(aka The Maid and the Martian)
American International Pictures (AIP) / Orion, 1964, Color, 82 minutes, **½
Released November, 1964

Wacked-out AIP entry finds Martian Tommy Kirk landing on Earth to scope it out for a future invasion and finding romance with curvaceous Annette Funicello, much to the dismay of boyfriend Jody McCrea. Mix in Harvey Lembeck's Eric Von Zipper, a couple of crooks, Buster Keaton as Chief Rotten Eagle, Dorothy Lamour, and a pajama party thrown by Annette's aunt Elsa Lanchester, and you have a beach party classic minus the sand.

Produced by: James H. Nicholson and Samuel Z. Arkoff
Co-Producer: Anthony Carras
Production Supervisor: Joe Wonder
Directed by: Don Weis
Assistant Director: Clark Paylow
Written by: Louis M. Heyward
Musical Supervision: Al Simms
Musical Director: Les Baxter
Music Score: Les Baxter
Songs: "It's That Kind of Day", "There Has to Be a Reason", "Where Did I Go Wrong?", "Pajama Party", "Beach Ball", "Among the Young", "Stuffed Animal" by Guy Hemric and Jerry Styner
Choreography by: David Winters
Art Direction: Daniel Haller
Set Decorator: Harry Reif
Costuming and Designing by: Marjorie Corso
Makeup: Bob Dawn
Hairdresser: Eve Newing
Sound: Phil Mitchell
Director of Photography: Floyd Crosby
Special Effects: Roger George, Joe Zonar
Filmed in Panavision, Pathecolor
Film Editors: Fred Feitshans, Eve Newman

Cast: Tommy Kirk [Go Go], Annette Funicello [Connie], Elsa Lanchester [Aunt Wendy], Harvey Lembeck [Eric Von Zipper], Jesse White [J. Sinister Hulk], Jody McCrea [Big Lunk], Ben Lessy [Fleegle], Donna Loren [Vikki], Susan Hart [Jilda], Bobbi Shaw [Helga], Cheryl Sweeten [Francine], Luree Holmes [Perfume Girl], Candy Johnson [Candy], The Nooney Rickett 4 [Themselves, Rock Group], Buster Keaton [Special Guest Star as Chief Rotten Eagle], Dorothy Lamour [Special Guest Star], Andy Romano, Linda Rogers, Alan Fife, Alberta Nelson, Jerry Brutsche, Bob Harvey [Rat Pack], Joi Holmes [Topless Bathing Suit Model], Renie Riano [Maid], Kerry Kollmar [Little Boy], Don Rickles ["Big Bang", the Martian], Frankie Avalon [Socum], Joan Neel, Patricia O'Reilly, Marion Kildany, Linda Opie, Mary Hughes, Patti Chandler, Laura Nicholson, Linda Benson, Carey Foster, Stacey Maxwell, Teri Hope, Margo Mehling, Diane Bond, Keva Page, Toni Basil, Kay Sutton, Connie Ducharme, Joyce Nizzari, Leslie Wenner [Pajama Girls], Ray Atkinson, Frank Alesia, Ned Wynn, Ronnie Rondell, Howard Curtis, John Fain, Mike Nader, Rick Newton, Guy Hemric, Ed Garner, Frank Montiforte, Ronnie David, Gus Trikonis, Bob Pane, Roger Bacon, Ronnie Dayton [Pajama Boys]

Musical Program: [0:00] It's That Kind of Day (sung by Annette Funicello, Tommy Kirk and Chorus behind titles); [0:03] It's That Kind of Day (instrumental arrangement played by The Nooney Rickett 4, danced by the Pajama Boys and the Pajama Girls -- this number is played throughout the background score when the kids are dancing onscreen); [0:16] Beach Ball (instrumental played by The Nooney Rickett 4, danced by the Pajama Boys and the Pajama Girls at the beach); [0:19] Among the Young (sung by Donna Loren accompanied by The Nooney Rickett 4, danced by the Pajama Boys and the Pajama Girls); [0:34] There Has to Be a Reason (sung by Tommy Kirk and Annette Funicello); [0:37] Where Did I Go Wrong? (sung by Dorothy Lamour, danced by fashion models); [0:52] Stuffed Animal (sung by Annette Funicello); [1:05] It's That Kind of Day (instrumental arrangement played by The Nooney Rickett 4, danced by the Pajama Boys and the Pajama Girls); [1:07] Pajama Party (sung by Annette Funicello accompanied by The Nooney Rickett 4, danced by the Pajama Boys and the Pajama Girls)

Pal Joey
Essex / George Sidney / Columbia, 1957, Color, 111 minutes, ***
Released October, 1957

Frank Sinatra is the womanizing nightclub singer caught between his attraction to chorus girl Kim Novak and rich socialite Rita Hayworth in Rodgers and Hart's classic musical. Score includes "Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered", "The Lady Is a Tramp", "My Funny Valentine".

Produced by: Fred Kohlmar
Directed by: George Sidney
Assistant Director: Art Black
Screen Play by: Dorothy Kingsley
From the musical play, Book by John O'Hara, Music by Richard Rodgers, Lyrics by Lorenz Hart, Produced on the stage by George Abbott
Music Supervised and Conducted by: Morris Stoloff
Musical Arrangements: Nelson Riddle
Music Adaptation: George Duning, Nelson Riddle
Orchestrations: Arthur Morton
Music Advisor: Fred Karger
Choreography: Hermes Pan
Art Director: Walter Holscher
Set Decorations: William Kiernan, Louis Diage
Gowns by: Jean Louis
Makeup by: Ben Lane
Hair Styles by: Helen Hunt
Recording Supervisor: John Livadary
Sound: Franklin Hansen
Director of Photography: Harold Lipstein
Color by Technicolor
Technicolor Color Consultant: Henri Jaffa
Film Editors: Viola Lawrence, Jerome Thoms

Awards: Academy Award nominations for Best Sound (John P. Livadary), Best Art Direction / Set Decoration (Walter Holscher, William Kiernan, Louis Diage), Best Costume Design (Jean Louis) and Best Film Editing (Viola Lawrence and Jerome Thoms)

Cast: Rita Hayworth [Vera Simpson], Frank Sinatra [Joey Evans], Kim Novak [Linda English], Barbara Nichols [Gladys], Bobby Sherwood [Ned Galvin], Hank Henry [Mike Miggins], Elizabeth Patterson [Mrs. Casey], Additional Cast: Robin Morse [Bartender], Frank Wilcox [Col. Langley], Pierre Watkin [Mr. Forsythe], Barry Bernard [Anderson], Ellie Kent [Carol], Mara McAfee [Sabrina], Betty Utey [Patsy], Bek Nelson [Lola], Henry McCann [Shorty], John Hubbard [Stanley], James Seay [Livingston], Hermes Pan [Choreographer], Ernesto Molinari [Chef Tony], Jean Corbett [Specialty Dance Double], Robert Rietz [Boy Friend], Cheryl Kubert [Girl Friend], Jules Davies [Red-Faced Man], Judy Dan [Hat Check Girl], Gail Bonney [Heavy-Set Woman], Tol Avery [Detective], Robert Anderson [Policeman], Genie Stone [Girl], Raymond McWalters [Army Captain], Bob Glenn [Sailor], Sue Boomer [Secretary], Helen Eliot [Traveler's Aid], Hermie Rose [Bald Club Owner], Jack Railey [Hot Dog Vendor], Frank Wilimarth [Sidewalk Artist], Howard Sigrist [Sidewalk Photographer], Roberto Piperio [Waiter], Bobbie Lee, Connie Graham, Bobbie Jean Henson, Edith Powell, Jo Ann Smith, Ilsa Ostroffsky, Rita Barrett [Strippers], Paul Cesari, Everett Glass [Pet Store Owners], Maurice Argent, Michael Ferris [Tailors], Eddie Bartell, Albert Nalbandian, Joseph Miksak, Sydney Chatton, Frank Sully [Barkers], Andrew Wong [Chinese Club Owner], George Chan [Chinese Pianist], Allen Gin [Chinese Drummer], Barbara Yung, Pat Lynn, Jean Nakaba, Elizabeth Fenton, Lessie Lynne Wong, Nellie Gee Ching [Chinese Dancers], Giselle D'Arc [Vera's Maid], Leon Alton [Printer Salesman], Jane Chung [Flower Lady], George Ford, Steve Benton [Electricians], Ramon Martinez, George Nardelli [Headwaiters], George DeNormand, Oliver Cross, Bess Flowers, Franklyn Farnum [Bits], Trudy Erwin [singing voice of Kim Novak], Jo Ann Greer [singing voice of Rita Hayworth]

Musical Program: [0:01] Overture (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:07] That Terrific Rainbow (sung and danced by Kim Novak and Chorus Girls, Trudy Erwin dubbing for Kim Novak); [0:09] I Didn't Know What Time It Was (sung by Frank Sinatra); [0:12] Great Big Town (sung and danced by Girls Chorus); [0:15] There's a Small Hotel (sung by Frank Sinatra); [0:20] Zip (sung and danced by Rita Hayworth, Jo Ann Greer dubbing for Rita Hayworth); [0:31] I Could Write a Book (sung and danced by Frank Sinatra and Kim Novak); [0:51] The Lady Is a Tramp (sung by Frank Sinatra with Jazz Combo); [0:55] The Lady Is a Tramp (played by Jazz Combo, danced by Frank Sinatra and Rita Hayworth); [1:02] Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered (sung by Jo Ann Greer dubbing for Rita Hayworth); [1:11] My Funny Valentine (sung by Trudy Erwin dubbing for Kim Novak); [1:22] Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered (reprised by Frank Sinatra); [1:42] Dream Sequence and Finale: What Do I Care for a Dame and a Ballet / Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered (sung by Frank Sinatra with Orchestra, danced by Sinatra with Rita Hayworth and Kim Novak); [1:48] I Could Write a Book (short reprisal by Chorus)

The Paleface
Paramount, 1948, Color, 80 minutes, ***½
Released December, 1948

Bob Hope is a daffy dentist and a shaky gun; Jane Russell is the gorgeous gunslinger Calamity Jane, and together they tame the Wild West with laughter in one of Bob's best comedies. Features the Oscar-winning song "Buttons and Bows".

This movie keeps me laughing all the way through - not many movies can do that. It's a barrage of corny one-liners, slapstick and funny escapades that never lets up. A high-paced comedy that makes you sure that half of it is going in one ear and out the other. The movie features the wonderful "Buttons and Bows", sung by Bob Hope to Jane Russell. The song was later made popular by Dinah Shore. Don't miss this one!

Produced by: Robert L. Welch
Directed by: Norman Z. McLeod
Assistant Director: Alvin Ganzer
Original Screenplay by: Edmund Hartmann and Frank Tashlin
Additional Dialogue by: Jack Rose
Editor: Ellsworth Hoagland
Music Score: Victor Young
Songs by: Jay Livingston and Ray Evans
Dances Staged by: Billy Daniel
Art Direction: Hans Dreier and Earl Hedrick
Set Decoration: Sam Comer and Bertram Granger
Costumes: Mary Kay Dodson
Men's Wardrobe: Gile Steele
Makeup Supervision: Wally Westmore
Sound Recording: Gene Merritt and John Cope
Director of Photography: Ray Rennahan
Special Photographic Effects: Gordon Jennings
Process Photography: Farciot Edouart
Color by Technicolor
Technicolor Color Director: Natalie Kalmus
Associate: Monroe W. Burbank
Edited by: Ellsworth Hoagland

Awards: Academy Award for Best Song ("Buttons and Bows")

Cast: Bob Hope ["Painless" Peter Potter], Jane Russell [Calamity Jane], Robert Armstrong [Terris], Iris Adrian [Pepper], Robert Watson [Toby Preston], Jack Searl [Jasper Martin], Joseph Vitale [Indian Scout], Charles Trowbridge [Governor Johnson], Clem Bevans [Hank Billings], Jeff York [Joe], Stanley Andrews [Commissioner Emerson], Wade Crosby [Jeb], Chief Yowlachie [Chief Yellow Feather], Iron Eyes Cody [Chief Iron Eyes], John Maxwell [Village Gossip], Tom Kennedy [Bartender], Henry Brandon [Wapato, the Medicine Man], Francis J. McDonald [Lance], Frank Hagney [Greg], Skelton Knaggs [Pete], Olin Howlin [Undertaker], George Chandler [First Patient], Nestor Paiva [Second Patient], Additional Cast: Earle Hodgins [Clem], Arthur Space [Zach], Edgar Dearing [Sheriff], Dorothy Granger [Bath House Attendant], Charles Cooley [Mr. "X"], Eric Alden [Bob], Babe London [Woman on Wagon Train], Loyal Underwood [Bearded Character], Billy Engle, Houseley Stevenson, Al Hill [Pioneers], Margaret Field, Laura Corbay [Guests], Duke York, Ethan Laidlaw [Henchmen], John "Skins" Miller [Bellhop], Wally Boyle [Hotel Clerk], Stanley Blystone, Bob Kortman [Onlookers], Lane Chandler [Tough-Looking Galoot], Oliver Blake [Westerner], Trevor Bardette, Alan Bridge, Carl Andre, Ted Mapes, Kermit Maynard [Horsemen], Dick Elliott [Mayor], Betty Hannon, Charmienne Harker, Dee La Nore, Maria Tavares, Marilyn Gladstone, June Glory [B-Girls], Harry Harvey, Paul E. Burns [Justices of the Peace], Jody Gilbert [Woman in Bath House], Hall Bartlett [Handsome Cowboy], Syd Saylor [Cowboy], Sharon McManus [Child]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture: "Buttons and Bows" (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:26] Buttons and Bows (sung by Bob Hope); [0:41] Get a Man (sung and danced by Chorus Girls in The Dirty Shame Saloon); [0:52] Meetcha 'Round the Corner (sung by Iris Adrian in The Dirty Shame Saloon, then danced by Iris and Bob Hope)

Palmy Days
Goldwyn / UA, 1931, B/W, 80 minutes, ***
Premiere release September, 1931
General release October, 1931

Stage and screen star Cantor gets mixed up with a group of phony fortune-tellers in this breezy early musical, in which he warbles the immortal "My Baby Said Yes, Yes". Dance routines are choreographed by the legendary Busby Berkeley. A funny story, though mostly a big ribbon around a lot of beautiful girls and great music. Fun movie.

Produced by: Samuel Goldwyn
Directed by: Edward Sutherland
Story and Dialogue by: Eddie Cantor, Morrie Ryskind and David Freedman
Continuity by: Keene Thompson
Musical Direction by: Alfred Newman
Music by: Con Conrad and Harry Akst
Dances and Ensembles by: Busby Berkeley
Settings by: Richard Day and Willy Pogany
Costumes Designed by: Alice O'Neill
Sound Technician: Vinton Vernon
Photography by: Gregg Toland
Film Edited by: Sherman Todd

Cast: Charlotte Greenwood [Helen Martin], Barbara Weeks [Joan Clark], Spencer Charters [A. B. Clark], Paul Page [Steve Clayton], Charles Middleton [Yolando], George Raft [Joe the Frog], Harry Woods [Plug Moynihan], and Eddie Cantor [Eddie Simpson], Additional Cast: Loretta Andrews, Edna Callaghan, Nadine Dore, Ruth Eddings, Betty Grable, Amo Ingraham, Jean Lenivick, Betty Lorraine, Neva Lynn, Nancy Nash, Fay Pierre, Nita Pike, Hylah Slocum, Betty Stockton, Hazel Witter [The Goldwyn Girls]

Musical Program: [0:04] Bend Down, Sister (sung and danced by Charlotte Greenwood and Goldwyn Girls in gymnasium); [0:41] There's Nothing Too Good for My Baby (sung by Eddie Cantor); [1:02] Yes, Yes (My Honey Said Yes, Yes) (sung and danced by Eddie Cantor and Goldwyn Girls); [1:16] Yes, Yes (My Honey Said Yes, Yes) (reprised by Eddie Cantor, Charlotte Greenwood and Preacher)

Panama Hattie
MGM, 1942, 79 minutes, **½
Released October, 1942

Ann Sothern is the sassy saloon keeper whose Central American bar is a haven for fighting sailors, romancing couples, and sinister spies in this filming of the Cole Porter Broadway musical. Dan Dailey, Red Skelton, Virginia O'Brien, Lena Horne also star; songs include "It Was Just One of Those Things", "I've Still Got My Health", "The Son of a Gun Who Picks on Uncle Sam".

Opening remark: "Warning! Any resemblance between the three sailors in this story and human beings is purely accidental."

Produced by: Arthur Freed
Directed by: Norman Z. McLeod
Screen Play by: Jack McGowan and Wilkie Mahoney
   Based on the Play by: Herbert Fields and B. G. DeSylva,
   Produced by B. G. DeSylva, Music and Lyrics by Cole Porter
Musical Adaptation: Roger Edens
Musical Direction: Georgie Stoll
Musical Numbers Staged by: Vincente Minnelli
Dance Director: Danny Dare
Additional Songs by: Roger Edens, Burton Lane, E. Y. Harburg
Song: "At the Savoy" by Walter Donaldson
Vocals and Orchestrations: Leo Arnaud, George Bassman, Conrad Salinger
Art Director: Cedric Gibbons
   Associate: John S. Detlie
   Set Decorations: Edwin B. Willis
   Associate: Hugh Hunt
Musical Presentation: Merrill Pye
Gowns by: Kalloch
Hair Styles by: Sydney Guilaroff
Recording Director: Douglas Shearer
Director of Photography: George Folsey
Film Editor: Blanche Sewell

Cast: Ann Sothern [Hattie Maloney], Dan Dailey [Dick Bulliet], Red Skelton [Red], Marsha Hunt [Leila Tree], Virginia O'Brien [Flo Foster, Cigarette Girl], Rags Ragland [Rags], Alan Mowbray [Jay Perkins, Butler], Ben Blue [Howdy], Jackie Horner [Geraldine "Gerry" Bulliet, Dick's daughter], Carl Esmond [Lucas Kefler], Pierre Watkin [Admiral Tree], Stanley Andrews [Colonel John Briggs], George Watts [Mac the Bartender], Lucien Prival [Hans], Joe Yule [Waiter], Duke York [Bruno], Fred Graham [Naval Policeman], Roger Moore [Spy], Max Wagner [Guard], Grant Withers [Shore Patrol], Zedra Conde, Carmen Amaya, Carmen Morales [Local Girls in "Good Neighbors" Number], Lena Horne [Specialty], The Berry Brothers [Themselves], The Music Maids [Vocals], Six Hits and a Miss [Vocals], Carmen Amaya Dancers [Themselves]

Musical Program: [0:01] Hattie from Panama (sung and danced by Mixed Chorus including Six Hits and a Miss, The Music Maids and The Carmen Amaya Dancers); [0:03] I've Still Got My Health (sung and danced by Ann Sothern); [0:06] Berry Me Not (instrumental danced by The Berry Brothers); [0:18] Just One of Those Things (sung by Lena Horne); [0:26] Fresh As a Daisy (sung by Virginia O'Brien with a little help from Red Skelton, Rags Ragland and Ben Blue); [0:31] Good Neighbors (sung and danced by Red Skelton, Rags Ragland, Ben Blue, Zedra Conde, Carmen Amaya, Carmen Morales, joined by Chorus); [0:38] Let's Be Buddies (sung by Ann Sothern with Jackie Horner and Virginia O'Brien with Alan Mowbray); [1:06] Hail, Hail, the Gang's All Here (excerpt played by Marching Band); [1:08] (Did I Get Stinkin') At the Savoy (sung by Virginia O'Brien); [1:11] The Sping (sung and danced by Lena Horne and The Berry Brothers); [1:18] Finale: The Son of a Gun Who Picks on Uncle Sam (sung by the Company)


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Papa's Delicate Condition
Amro / Paramount, 1963, Color, 98 minutes, ***
Released March, 1963

Charming period comedy about Corrine Griffith's childhood, and her father's "condition" ... perpetual drunkenness! Of course, his prim wife disapproves and delightful comedy ensues. Jackie Gleason, Glynis Johns, Elisha Cook, Jr. star; features the Oscar-winning song "Call Me Irresponsible".

Produced by: Jack Rose
Directed by: George Marshall
Assistant Director: Arthur Jacobson
Screenplay by: Jack Rose
From a book by Corinne Griffith)
Music Director: Joseph J. Lilley
Music Scored and Conducted by: Joseph J. Lilley
New Song: "Call Me Irresponsible" by Sammy Cahn and James Van Heusen
Art Direction: Hal Pereira and Arthur Lonergan
Set Decoration: Sam Comer, James Payne
Costumes: Edith Head
Makeup Supervision: Wally Westmore
Hair Style Supervision: Nellie Manley
Sound Recording by: Gene Merritt and Charles Grenzbach
Director of Photography: Loyal Griggs
Special Photographic Effects: Paul K. Lerpae
Process Photography: Farciot Edouart
Filmed in Technicolor
Technicolor Color Consultant: Richard Mueller
Edited by: Frank P. Keller

Awards: Academy Award for Best Song ("Call Me Irresponsible")

Cast: Jackie Gleason [Jack Griffith], Glynis Johns [Amberlyn Griffith], Charles Ruggles [Anthony Ghio], Laurel Goodwin [Augusta Griffith], Linda Bruhl [Corrie], Ned Glass [Mr. Sparrow], Murray Hamilton [Mr. Harvey], Elisha Cook, Jr. [Mr. Keith], Charles Lane [Mr. Cosgrove], Don Beddoe [Mayor Ghio's assistant], Juanita Moore [Ellie]

Musical Program: [0:00] Bill Bailey, Won't You Please Come Home (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:01] Bill Bailey, Won't You Please Come Home (playing on phonograph in opening scene); [0:05] Bill Bailey, Won't You Please Come Home (sung by Jackie Gleason, Engineer and Fireman on train); [0:22] The Rose of Tralee (sung by Miss Rita Summers at party); [0:39] Call Me Irresponsible (played on music box); [0:41] Circus Parade; [0:56] Bill Bailey, Won't You Please Come Home (played on calliope during parade); [1:05] Call Me Irresponsible (played on music box, sung by Jackie Gleason); [1:20] My Bonnie Lies Over the Ocean (sung by men at political rally); [1:36] Bill Bailey, Won't You Please Come Home (sung by Glynis Johns at the piano)

Paradise, Hawaiian Style
Paramount, 1966, Color, 91 minutes, ***
Released June, 1966

Back in the Aloha State once more, Elvis this time is an ex-airline pilot who starts a charter helicopter sightseeing service and finds himself coping with pretty tourists, FAA officials, and a chopper full of dogs! And remember, "Last one out of the water is a papaya picker!" Suzanna Leigh, James Shigeta co-star. Songs include "A Dog's Life", "Sand Castles" and "Bill Bailey, Won't You Please Come Home?"

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, Roustabout.

Produced by: Hal B. Wallis
Associate Producer: Paul Nathan
Directed by: Michael Moore
Assitant Director: James Rosenberger
Screenplay by: Allan Weiss and Anthony Lawrence
Story by: Allan Weiss
Music Scored and Conducted by: Joseph J. Lilley
Vocal Accompaniment by: The Jordanaires and The Mellowmen
Technical Advisor: Col. Tom Parker
Song: "Drums of the Islands" Music adapted by Iserali Racule based on "Bula Lai" by permission of the Polynesian Cultural Center
Musical Numbers Staged by: Jack Regas
Art Direction: Hal Pereira, Walter Tyler
Set Decoration: Robert Benton, Ray Moyer
Costumes: Edith Head
Makeup Supervision: Wally Westmore
Hair Style Supervision: Nellie Manley
Sound Recording: John Carter, Charles Grenzbach
Director of Photography: W. Wallace Kelley
Aerial Photography by: Nelson Tyler
Special Photographic Effects: Paul K. Lerpae
Process Photography: Farciot Edouart
Color by Technicolor
Editorial Supervision: Warren Low

Cast: Elvis Presley [Rick Richards], Suzanna Leigh [Judy Hudson], James Shigeta [Danny Kohana], Donna Butterworth [Jan Kohana], Marianna Hill [Lani Kaimana], Irene Tsu [Pua], Linda Wong [Lehua Kawena], Julie Parrish [Joanna], Jan Shepard [Betty Kohana], John Doucette [Mr. Belden], Grady Sutton [Mr. Cubberson], Doris Packer [Mrs. Barrington], Don Collier [Andy Lowell], Philip Ahn [Moke Kaimana], Mary Treen [Mrs. Belden], Gi Gi Verone [Peggy], Additional Cast: Shanon Hale [Blonde Applicant], The Jordanaires, The Mellowmen [backup vocals]

Musical Program: [0:00] Paradise, Hawaiian Style (sung by Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires and The Mellowmen behind titles); [0:07] Queenie Wahine's Papaya (sung by Elvis Presley and Donna Butterworth); [0:19] Scratch My Back (sung by Marianna Hill and Elvis Presley); [0:28] Pupu A O Ewa (sung by Chorus); [0:29] Drums of the Islands (sung by Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires and The Mellowmen); [0:36] A Dog's Life (sung by Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires and The Mellowmen); [0:51] Datin' (sung by Elvis Presley and Donna Butterworth with The Jordanaires and The Mellowmen); [0:54] House of Sand (sung by Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires and The Mellowmen, danced by Girls Chorus); [1:15] Bill Bailey, Won't You Please Come Home (sung by Donna Butterworth); [1:18] Stop Where You Are (sung by Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires and The Mellowmen, danced by Girls Chorus); [1:23] Drum dance (performed by Islanders); [1:25] This Is My Heaven (sung by Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires and The Mellowmen); [1:27] Drums of the Islands (sung by Elvis Presley with The Jordanaires and The Mellowmen)

Pardon My Sarong
Mayfair / Universal, 1942, B/W, 84 minutes
Released August, 1942

Chicago bus drivers Abbott and Costello take a really wrong turn when their involvement with a wealthy playboy winds up taking them to the South Seas and into a den of jewel thieves. Robert Paige, Lionel Atwill, Virginia Bruce, William Demarest and The Ink Spots co-star.

Associate Producer: Alex Gottlieb
Directed by: Erle C. Kenton
Assistant Director: Howard Christie
Original Screen Play: True Boardman, Nat Perrin, John Grant
Original Music: Don Raye, Gene de Paul, June Hershey, Frank Skinner
Songs: "Lovely Luana," "Vingo Jingo" words and music by Don Raye, Gene de Paul
Musical Director: Charles Previn
Musical Supervisor: Ted Cain
Dances originated and staged by: Katherine Dunham
Art Director: Jack Otterson
Associate: Martin Obzina
Set Decorations: R. A. Gausman
Associate: E. R. Robinson
Gowns: Vera West
Sound Director: Bernard B. Brown
Technician: Robert Pritchard
Director of Photography: Milton Krasner
Film Editor: Arthur Hilton

Cast: Bud Abbott [Algy Shaw], Lou Costello [Wellington Pflug], Virginia Bruce [Joan Marshall], Robert Paige [Tommy Layton], Lionel Atwill [Varnoff], Leif Erickson [Whaba], Nan Wynn [Luana], William Demarest [Detective Kendall], Samuel S. Hinds [Chief Kolua], Marie McDonald [Ferna], Elaine Morey [Amo], The Four Ink Spots [Themselves], Tip, Tap and Toe [Themselves], Additional Cast: Sig Arno [Marco the Magician], Irving Bacon [Gas Station Proprietor], Chester Clute [Bus Company Checker]

Musical Program: [0:08] Do I Worry? (sung by The Four Ink Spots); [0:21] Shout, Brother, Shout (sung by The Four Ink Spots, danced by Tip, Tap and Toe); [0:49] Lovely Luana (sung by Nan Wynn and Chorus, danced by Chorus Girls); Malayan Funeral Procession; [1:02] Vingo Jingo (production number sung by Nan Wynn and Chorus, danced by Chorus Girls)

Hayley Mills plays a dual role in this charming film (versions of which have hit the silver screen at least three times). She and her twin sister are separated at birth when their parents split up, and one goes with Dad and the other with Mom. Neither parent has told either twin about the separation or the other twin. When they meet - purely by chance - at summer camp, it isn't long before they figure out what happened. They decide to switch places so each can spend some time with the parent they've never met. Really cute film -- Lots of fun!

Hayley sings a couple songs in this film. She may not be the greatest singer in the world, but she has some kind of magic charm rather like Shirley Temple had, and her singing is cute and fun to listen to. One of Hayley's best films.

Produced by: Walt Disney
Associate Producer: George Golitzin
Written for the Screen and Directed by: David Swift
Based on the book "Das Doppelte Lottchen" by Erich Kastner
Assistant Director: Ivan Volkman
Music: Paul Smith
Orchestration: Franklyn Marks
Songs: "The Parent Trap", "For Now For Always", "Let's Get Together"
   (by) Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman
Music Editor: Evelyn Kennedy
Art Direction: Carroll Clark, Robert Clatworthy
Set Decoration: Emile Kuri, Hal Gausman
Costumes Designed by: Bill Thomas
Costumers: Chuck Keehne, Gertrude Casey
Make-Up: Pat McNalley
Hair Stylist: Ruth Sandifer
Sound Supervisor: Robert O. Cook
Sound: Dean Thomas
Director of Photography: Lucien Ballard
Special Photographic Effects: Ub Iwerks
Filmed in Technicolor
Film Editor: Philip W. Anderson

Awards: Academy Award nominations for Best Sound (Robert O. Cook) and Best Film Editing (Philip W. Anderson)

Cast: Hayley Mills [Sharon McKendrick / Susan Evans], Maureen O'Hara [Maggie McKendrick], Brian Keith [Mitch Evans], Charlie Ruggles [Charles McKendrick], Una Merkel [Verbena], Leo G. Carroll [Rev. Mosby], Joanna Barnes [Vicky Robinson], Cathleen Nesbitt [Louise McKendrick], Ruth McDevitt [Miss Inch], Crahan Denton [Hecky], Linda Watkins [Edna Robinson], Nancy Kulp [Miss Grunecker], Frank DeVol [Mr. Eaglewood]

Musical Program: [0:00] The Parent Trap (sung behind titles by Tommy Sands and Annette Funicello); [0:10] Let's Get Together (excerpt sung by Annette Funicello offscreen, danced by Haley Mills and Campers); [0:16] Colonel Bogey March (played by Orchestra as Campers go hiking); [0:39] For Now For Always (Maggie's Theme) (short excerpt sung by Maureen O'Hara, picked up in background score); [1:38] Let's Get Together (Hayley Mills double-mixed and split screen as Susan and Sharon singing together); [2:08] For Now For Always (Maggie's Theme) (excerpt sung by Chorus at end of film)


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Pennies from Heaven
Columbia, 1936, B/W, 80 minutes, ***½
Released November, 1936

Legendary crooner Bing Crosby sings and dances his way through this charming and delightful story of a wanderer who drifts into the lives and hearts of the residents of the small town of Middletown, New Jersey. Featuring music and lyrics by Johnny Burke and Arthur Johnston, including the classics "So Do I," "Pennies from Heaven" (Academy Award nominee for Best Music / Song), "Skeleton in the Closet" and "Let's Call a Heart a Heart".

With incredible supporting performances by the amazing Louis Armstrong, the beautiful Madge Evans, and the talented Edith Fellows, Pennies from Heaven is one of the crown jewels from the golden age of Hollywood when real stars weren't found only in heaven... and a fistful of pennies still went a long way.  [from back of DVD case]

An Emanuel Cohen production
Directed by: Norman Z. McLeod
Screen Play: Jo Swerling
Based on The Peacock Feather by Katherine Leslie Moore)
and the Story by William Rankin
Music: Arthur Johnston
Lyrics: John Burke
Song Arrangements: John Scott Trotter
Musical Director: George Stoll
Technical Advisor: Norman Blackburn
Art Director: Stephen Goosson
Photography: Robert Pittack
Film Editor: John Rawlins

Awards: nominated for Academy Award for Best Music, Original Song "Pennies from Heaven" (words by Johnny Burke, music by Arthur Johnston)

Cast: Bing Crosby [Larry Poole], Madge Evans [Susan Sprague], Edith Fellows [Patsy "Sarge" Smith], Louis Armstrong [Henry], Donald Meek [Gramps], John Gallaudet [J. C. Hart], William Stack [Clarence B. Carmichael], Nana Bryant [Miss Howard], Tommy Dugan [Crowbar Miller], Nydia Westman [Hotel Maid], Additional Cast: Lew Kelly [Sheriff], Stanley Blystone [Detective Gilroy], Stanley Andrews [Detective Stephens], Eddie Borden [Bilkins], Billy Dooley [W. F. Arbuthnot], Lionel Hampton [Band Member], Charles C. Wilson [Warden], Howard C. Hickman [Chaplain], Budd Fine, Harry Hollingsworth [Prison Guards], Maston Williams [Prisoner], William Anderson [Western Union Messenger], Mickey Daniels [Hay Wagon Driver], Harry Depp [Union Costume Supply Man], Arthur Hoyt [Tax Collector], Tiny Jones [Little Woman at Window], Margaret Mann [White Haired Woman], Russ Powell [Coin Tosser], Syd Saylor [Sign Painter], Frank Darien [Chicken Farmer], Brick Sullivan [Smiling Cop in Central Park], Harry Tyler [Carnival Concessionaire], George Chandler [Waiter], Dorothy Vernon [Restaurant Patron], Morgan Wallace [Restaurant Partner], Helen Dickson, Sheldon Jett [Nightclub Extras], Eugene Anderson, Jr., George Billings [Boys], Nick Copeland [Middle-aged man], Frank Austin, Edward Peil, Sr. [Old Men]

Musical Program: [0:00] Main Title ("Pennies from Heaven") (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:07] So Do I (sung by Bing Crosby, danced by Edith Fellows); [0:16] Old MacDonald (Had a Farm) (with special lyric, sung by Edith Fellows, Bing Crosby and Donald Meek); [0:24] Pennies from Heaven (sung by Bing Crosby); [0:41] The Skeleton in the Closet (sung by Louis Armstrong); [0:46] Let's Call a Heart a Heart (sung by Bing Crosby); [1:05] Pennies from Heaven (sung by Bing Crosby); [1:06] One, Two Button Your Shoe (sung by Bing Crosby); [1:14] So Do I (sung by Bing Crosby); [1:19] One, Two Button Your Shoe (continued by Bing Crosby)

Pennies from Heaven
MGM, 1981, Color, 108 minutes, ***
Released December, 1981

It's the Great Depression in Chicago. Sheet music salesman Arthur Parker is trying to sell his products but it's not easy to convince unwilling music store owners to buy them. Although he's already married to the somewhat drab Joan, when he meets school teacher Eileen in a music store, he falls in love with her.

Quite an interesting mish-mash of Sam Spade, noir, deco and Great Depression (economic and mental)... Steve Martin and Bernadette Peters sing and dance their way through this colorful, over-the-top film lip-synching to music of the era. It's a fun romp, but a bit depressing. Definitely worth seeing.

Warning: Adult Themes, brief nudity

Produced by: Nora Kaye & Herbert Ross
Associate Producer: Ken Adam
Executive Producer: Richard McCallum
Directed by: Herbert Ross
Written for the Screen and Based on Original Material by: Dennis Potter
Music Arranged and Conducted by: Marvin Hamlisch and Billy May
Choreography by: Danny Daniels
Art Directors: Fred Tuch and Bernie Cutler
Set Decoration: Garrett Lewis
Costumes Designed by: Bob Mackie
Special Effects: Glen Robinson
Director of Photography: Gordon Willis
Edited by: Richard Marks

Awards: nominated for Academy Awards for Best Costume Design (Bob Mackie); Best Sound (Michael J. Kohut, Jay M. Harding, Richard Tyler, Al Overton Jr.); Best Writing, Screenplay Based on Material from Another Medium (Dennis Potter)

Cast: Steve Martin [Arthur Parker], Bernadette Peters [Eileen "Lulu"], Christopher Walken [Tom], Jessica Harper [Joan Parker], Vernel Bagneris [Accordion Man], John McMartin [Mr. Warner], John Karlen [Detective], Jay Garner [Banker], Robert Fitch [Al], Tommy Rall [Ed], Eliska Krupka [Blind Girl], Frank McCarthy [Bartender], Raleigh Bond [Mr. Barrett], Gloria LeRoy [Prostitute], Toni Kaye, Shirley Kirks [Tarts], Nancy Parsons [Old Whore], Hunter Watkins [Boy], Jack Fletcher [Elevator Operator], M. C. Gainey [Young Policeman], George P. Wilbur [Motorcycle Policeman], Will Hare [Father Everson], Mark Campbell [Newsboy], Jim Boeke [Hangman], Joshua Cadman [Jumbo], Mark Martinez [Schoolboy], James Mendenhall [Warden], Duke Stroud [Counterman], Joe Medalis [Counterman], Richard Blum, William Frankfather [Pool Players], Robert Lee Jarvis [Policeman], Luke Andreas [Customer], Paul Valentine, Bill Richards, John Craig, Alton Ruff [Bar Patrons], Karla Bush, Robin Hoff, Linda Montana, Dorothy Cronin [Bank Secretaries], Twink Caplan, Lillian D'Honau, Barbara Nordella, Dean Taliaferro [Bank Customers], Wayne Storm [Bank Guard], Gene Ross, Edward J. Heim, Dave Adams, Greg Finley, Paul Michael, Joe Ross [Bank Tellers]

Musical Program: [0:00] The Clouds Will Soon Roll By (sung by Elsie Carlisle with Ambrose and His Orchestra, played behind titles); [0:03] I'll Never Have to Dream Again (sung by Connie Boswell, lip-synced by Steve Martin); [0:09] Yes, Yes (sung by Sam Browne and The Carlysle Cousins, danced and lip-synced by Steve Martin and bank employees, complete with Berkeley-esque camera work); [0:15] Did You Ever See a Dream Walking? (sung by Bing Crosby, lip-synced by Steve Martin when he first sees Bernadette Peters); [0:20] Pennies from Heaven (sung by Arthur Tracy, lip-synced and danced by Vernel Bagneris); [0:30] It's the Girl (sung by rhe Boswell Sisters with The Dorsey Brothers Orchestra, lip-synced by Steve Martin and two men); [0:34] Love Is Good for Anything That Ails You (sung by Phyllis Robbins with Orlando and His Orchestra, lip-synced by Bernadette Peters, danced by School Children); [0:46] Let's Put Out the Lights (And Go to Sleep) (sung by Rudy Vallee and His Connecticut Yankees, short excerpt played in background); [0:48] It's a Sin to Tell a Lie (sung by Dolly Dawn with George Hall and His Orchestra, lip-synced by Jessica Harper); [1:01] I Want to Be Bad (sung by Helen Kane, lip-synced by Bernadette Peters); [1:05] The Clouds Will Soon Roll By (sung by Elsie Carlisle with Ambrose and His Orchestra, used in background); [1:10] Let's Misbehave (sung by Irving Aaronson and His Commanders, lip-synced by Christopher Walken, danced by Christopher Walken and bar patrons); [1:16] Life Is Just a Bowl of Cherries (sung by Walt Harrah, Gene Merlino, Vern Rowe, Robert Tebow and Al Vescovo; lip-synced by Bernadette Peters, Jessica Harper and Steve Martin); [1:29] Let's Face the Music and Dance (sung by Fred Astaire, excerpt playing in theater, lip-synced by Steve Martin, danced by Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers on theater screen, danced by Steve Martin and Bernadette Peters); [1:41] Pennies from Heaven (sung by Steve Martin); [1:43] The Glory of Love (sung by steve Martin, Bernadette Peters and Chorus); [1:44] Pennies from Heaven (sung by Arthur Tracy) / Love Is Good for Anything That Ails You (sung by Phyllis Robbins with Orlando and His Orchestra) played behind end credits

People Are Funny
Paramount, 1946, B/W, 93 minutes, **½
Released January, 1946

Based on the popular radio (and later television) show, this music-filled comedy provides a fictional account of how the show came into being. Two identical versions of the show from a radio station in Oklahoma are auditioned for producer Rudy Vallee, though the backers of each version are not aware the other version is competing. Art Linkletter, host of the real show on television and radio, is onhand to host the audition.

Produced and Directed by: Sam White
Executive Producers: William H. Pine, William C. Thomas
Screenplay by: Maxwell Shane, David Lang
Additional Dialogue: Dorcas Cochran
Original Story by: David Lang
Based on John Guedel's "People Are Funny" radio program
Musical Supervision: David Chudnow
Musical Direction: Rudy Schrager
Dance Director: Jack Crosby
Art Direction: F. Paul Sylos
Set Decoration: Glenn P. Thompson
Miss Walker's Gowns: Odette Myrtil
Make Up Artist: Irving Burns
Sound Recording: William H. Lynch
Director of Photography: Fred Jackman, Jr.
Supervising Editor: Howard Smit
Edited by: Henry Adams

Cast: Jack Haley [Pinky Wilson], Helen Walker [Corey Sullivan], Rudy Vallee [Ormsby Jamison], Ozzie Nelson [Leroy Brinker], Philip Reed [John Guedel], The Vagabonds [Themselves], Bob Graham [Luke], Roy Atwell [Mr. Pippensigal], Clara Blandick [Grandma], Barbara Roche [Aimee], Art Linkletter and the People Are Funny Radio Show, Guest Artist Frances Langford

Musical Program: [0:08] Every Hour on the Hour (sung by Bob Graham); [0:22] Cielito Lindo (sung by unidentified female singer with Pepe and Tito Guizar); [0:23] Hey Jose (sung in English by Jack Haley, sung in Spanish by Jack Haley, Pepe and Tito Guizar and Chorus, danced by Jack Haley and unidentified female dancer); [0:34] Angelina (sung by The Vagabonds); [0:39] "Dixie Shindig" (played by Ann Jenkins); [0:48] The Old Squaredance is Back Again (sung by The Vagabonds); [1:04] Alouette (sung by Rudy Vallee, Ozzie Nelson and Ensemble); [1:23] Chuck a Luckin' (sung by The Vagabonds); Film titles indicate that the song "I'm in the Mood for Love" is used in this film, and various sources indicate that it was sung by Frances Langford. However, neither Francis Lanford nor this song appear in this print of the film.

Pepe
G. S. - Posa Films International / Columbia, 1960, Color, 195 minutes, ***
Released December, 1960

This film probably has the largest roster of actors and actresses from the Golden Age ever assembled into one production. It's worth seeing for that alone! It's basically a good story; Cantinflas and Shirley Jones are fun. The only problem with it is that it's too long and wanders around a lot.

Movie star Dan Dailey buys a race horse in Mexico, but one condition of the sale is that the horse's stable boy Cantinflas must go with the horse. So Dailey moves the horse and Cantinflas to his home in Hollywood, and Cantinflas finds himself suddenly thrust into the Hollywood culture. He meets many stars and finds a strange new world that is totally baffling to him. Lots of laughs!

Directed and Produced by: George Sidney
Associate Producer: Jacques Gelman
Assistant Director: David Silver
Screen Play by: Dorothy Kingsley, Claude Binyon
Screen Story by: Leonard Spigelgass and Sonya Levien
Based on a Play by L. Bush-Fekete ("Broadway Magic")
General Music Supervision and Background Score by: Johnny Green
"Pepe" and "Mimi" Special Material and Routines by Roger Edens
Songs: "Faraway Part of Town", "That's How It Went, Alright" Music by André Previn, Lyrics by Dory Langdon, Conducted by André Previn; "Pepe" Music by Hans Wittstatt, Special Instrumental by Johnny Green, Lyrics by Dory Langdon; "The Rumble" instrumental by André Previn; "Lovely Day" ("Concha Hacar") Music by Augustin Lara, Spanish Lyrics by Maria Teresa Lara, Special English Lyrics by Dory Langdon; Maurice Chevalier Recordings of "September Song" and "Mimi" courtesy of MGM Records
Choreography: "The Rumble", "Faraway Part of Town" (by) Eugene Loring
Additional Choreography: Alex Romero
Art Direction: Ted Haworth
Associate Art Director: Gunthere Gerszo
Set Decorator: William Kiernan
Gowns: Edith Head
Make-Up Supervision: Ben Lane
Hair Styles: Larry Germain, Myrl Stoltz
Recording Supervisor: Charles J. Rice
Sound: James Z. Flaster
Director of Photography: Joe Mac Donald
Special Sequences Photographed in CinemaScope, Eastman Color by Pathe
Film Editors: Viola Lawrence, Al Clark
Las Vegas Sequences Photographed at The Sands Hotel, The Tropicana Hotel
Bullfight and Fiesta Scenes Photographed at Hacienda Vista Hermosa, Mexico
"With Special Appreciation to the Members of the Motion Picture Production Worker's Union of the Republic of Mexico for Their Splendid Co-Operation."

Awards: Academy Award Nominations: Best Color Cinematography (Joe MacDonald), Best Film Editing (Viola Lawrence, Al Clark), Best Score, Musical (Johnny Green), Best Song ("The Faraway Part of Town"), Best Art Direction-Set Decoration, Color [Ted Haworth (Art Direction), William Kiernan (Set Decoration)], Best Costume Design, Color (Edith Head), Best Sound (Charles Rice, Columbia Studio Sound Department)

Cast: Cantinflas [Pepe], Dan Dailey [Ted Holt], Shirley Jones [Suzie Murphy], Carlos Montalban [Auctioneer], Vicki Trickett [Lupita], Matt Mattox [Dancer], Hank Henry [Manager], Sue Lloyd [Carmen], Stephen Bekassy [Jewelry Salesman], Ernie Kovacs [Immigration Inspector], William Demarest [Studio Gateman], Carol Douglas [Waitress], Francisco Reguerra [Priest], Joe Hyams [Charro], Carlos Rivas [Himself], Joey Bishop [Himself], Michael Callan [Himself], Maurice Chevalier [Himself], Charles Coburn [Himself], Richard Conte [Himself], Bing Crosby [Himself], Tony Curtis [Himself], Bobby Darin [Himself], Sammy Davis, Jr. [Himself], Jimmy Durante [Himself], Zsa Zsa Gabor [Herself], The Singing Voice of Judy Garland [voice only], Greer Garson [Herself], Hedda Hopper [Herself], Peter Lawford [Himself], Janet Leigh [Herself], Jack Lemmon [Himself], Dean Martin [Himself], Jay North [Himself], Kim Novak [Herself], Andre Previn [Himself], Donna Reed [Herself], Debbie Reynolds [Herself], Edward G. Robinson [Himself], Cesar Romero [Himself], Frank Sinatra [Himself], Billie Burke [Herself], Ann B. Davis [Herself], Jack Entratter [Himself], E. E. Fogelson [Himself], Jane Robinson [Herself], Bunny Waters [Herself], Shirley DeBurgh [Senorita Dancer], Steve Baylor [Parking Lot Attendant], John Burnside [Parking Lot Attendant], James Bacon [Bartender], James Cavanaugh [Dealer], Jeanne Manet [French Woman], Robert B. Williams [Immigration Officer], Bonnie Green [Dancer], Lela Bliss [Dowager], Ray Walker [Assistant Director], David Landfield [Announcer's Voice], Margie Nelson [Patron], Dorothy Abbott, Kenner G. Kemp, Steve Carruthers, Jim Waters, Billy Snyder [Bits], Frederico Roberto [Cashier]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (played by Orchestra behind titles and antics of Cantinflas); [0:25] Pennies from Heaven / Let's Fall in Love / South of the Border (with special lyrics, short a capella excerpts sung by Bing Crosby and Cantinflas); [0:39] That's How It Went All Right (sung by Bobby Darin) / The Rumble (instrumental danced by Michael Callan, Matt Mattox and Shirley Jones at Kelly's Alley); [0:57] The Faraway Part of Town [AAN] (sung by Judy Garland offscreen [on radio], danced by Shirley Jones and Dan Dailey); [1:13] Hooray for Hollywood (short excerpt sung by Sammy Davis, Jr.); [1:18] card game comedy routine (performed by Cantinflas and Jimmy Durante -- great!); [1:28] Tequila (danced by Debbie Reynolds and Cantinflas); [1:37] Mimi (sung by Maurice Chevalier with Chorus Girls); [1:39] September Song (sung by Maurice Chevalier); [1:44] Mimi (sung and danced by Maurice Chevalier, Cantinflas and Dan Dailey -- great number!); [1:47] Rhumba (danced by Dan Dailey and Shirley DeBurgh and other nightclub patrons); [1:52] Pepe (sung by Shirley Jones and Children, dancing through the streets -- cute!); [2:36] Pepe (sung by Childrens Chorus); The following musical numbers are not in the print I have, but sources indicate that they are in the film... Lovely Day (Shirley Jones); Suzy's Theme (imstrumental danced by Cantinflas and Debbie Reynolds)


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The Perils of Pauline
Paramount, 1947, Color, 96 minutes, ***
Released July, 1947

Betty Hutton plays Pearl White, the actress who was the star of the real "Perils of Pauline" silent movie serial. As with most biopics, this one is more fiction than fact, but it is a fun movie! Betty Hutton and Constance Collier are as fun as ever. All the old actors from the vaudeville and the silent film era add to the charm, and the behind-the-scenes look at film-making during the silent era is fascinating. Most of all, Betty Hutton is cute and funny, as always!

Produced by: Sol C. Siegel
Directed by: George Marshall
Screen Play by: P. J. Wolfson and Frank Butler
Based on a Story by P. J. Wolfson
With a salute to Charles W. Goddard who wrote the original serial "The Perils of Pauline"
Technical Advisor: Louis Gasnier
Music Score: Robert Emmett Dolan
Vocal Arrangements: Joseph J. Lilley
Music Associate: Troy Sanders
Song: "Poor Pauline" by Charles McCarron and Raymond Walker
Songs by: Frank Loesser
Dances Staged by: Billy Daniels
Chorus Number: Waldo Angelo
Art Direction: Hans Dreier and Roland Anderson
Set Decorations: Sam Comer and Ray Moyer
Gowns: Edith Head
Makeup Supervision: Wally Westmore
Sound Recording: Gene Merritt and Walter Oberst
Director of Photography: Ray Rennahan
Special Photographic Effects: Gordon Jennings
Process Photography: Farciot Edouart
Filmed in Technicolor
Technicolor Color Director: Natalie Kalmus
Associate: Robert Brower
Film Editing: Arthur Schmidt

Awards: Nominated for Best Song Academy Award ("I Wish I Didn't Love You So")

Cast: Betty Hutton [Pearl White], John Lund [Michael Farrington], Billy De Wolfe [Timmy Timmons], William Demarest [Chuck McManus], Constance Collier [Julia Gibbs], Frank Faylen [Joe Gurt], William Farnum [Hero in Western Saloon], Chester Conklin, James Finlayson, Hank Mann [Comic chefs], Paul Panzer [Gent in Interior Drawing Room], Snub Pollard [Propman in Western Saloon], Creighton Hale [Marcelled, Leading Man], Francis McDonald [Heavy in Western Saloon], Bert Roach [Bartender in Western Saloon], Heinie Conklin [Studio Cop], Additional Cast: Chester Clute [Willie Millick], Tom Dugan [Balloonist], Bess Flowers [Reporter], Frank Ferguson [Theatre Owner], Harry Hayden [Stage Manager]

Musical Program: [0:04] The Sewing Machine (sung and danced by Betty Hutton); [0:12] Rumble, Rumble, Rumble (sung by Betty Hutton); [0:33] I Wish I Didn't Love You So (sung by Betty Hutton); [1:02] The Angels Sing (sung by Chorus offscreen during balloon descent); [1:19] Poppa Don't Preach to Me (sung by Betty Hutton with Chorus)

Pete's Dragon
Walt Disney, 1977, Color, 128 minutes, ***
Released November, 1977

Young Pete (Sean Marshall) runs away from his foster parents (Charles Tyner and Shelley Winters) and travels with his dragon Elliott to Passamaquoddy, where he meets a kind lady (Helen Reddy) who takes him in. Of course, no one but Pete can see Elliott, so everyone thinks the boy is a bit unbalanced. But, slowly, the dragon makes himself known and ends up saving the town and becoming a hero. Fun film featuring mixed live action with the animated Elliott. Features the beautiful song, "Candle on the Water", sung by Helen Reddy onscreen.

Produced by: Ron Miller and Jerome Courtland
Production Manager: John Bloss
Directed by: Don Chaffey
Assistant Director: Ronald R. Grow
Screenplay by: Malcolm Marmorstein
Based on a story by Seton I. Miller and S. S. Field
Animation: Ken Anderson, Don Bluth, Joe Hale and Dorse A. Lanpher
Music Supervised, Arranged and Conducted by: Irwin Kostal
Songs Music and Lyrics: Al Kasha and Joel Hirschhorn
Choreography by: Onna White
Associate Choregrapher: Martin Allen
Dance Arrangements: David Baker
Production Design: John B. Mansbridge
Art Directors: John B. Mansbridge and Jack Martin Smith
Set Decorator: Lucien M. Hafley
Costumes Designed by: Bill Thomas
Makeup Artist: P. S. Ellenshaw
Sound Supervisor: Herb Taylor
Animation Director: Don Bluth
Special Effects: Eustace Lycett, Art Cruickshank, Danny Lee
Director of Photography: Frank Phillips
Color by Technicolor
Editor: Gordon D. Brenner

Awards: Academy Award nominations for Best Original Song Score and Best Song ("Candle on the Water")

Cast: Helen Reddy [Nora], Jim Dale [Doctor Terminus], Mickey Rooney [Lampie], Red Buttons [Hoagy], Shelley Winters [Lena Gogan], Sean Marshall [Pete], Jane Kean [Miss Taylor], Jim Backus [The Mayor], Charles Tyner [Merle Gogan], Gary Morgan [Grover Gogan], Jeff Conaway [Willie Gogan], Cal Bartlett [Paul], Walter Barnes [Captain], Al Checco [Fisherman #1], Henry Slate [Fisherman #2], Jack Collins [Fisherman #3], Robert Easton [Store Proprietor], Roger Price [Man with Visor], Robert Foulk [Old Sea Captain], Ben Wrigley [Egg Man], Joe Ross [Cement Man], Charlie Callas [Voice of Elliott]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (played by Orchestra); [0:04] In These Hills (sung by Shelley Winters, Charles Tyner, Gary Morgan and Jeff Conaway); [0:12] Boo Bop Bopbop Bop (I Love You, Too) (sung by Sean Marshall and Charlie Callas); [0:22] I Saw a Dragon (sung by Mickey Rooney, Helen Reddy and Chorus; danced by Helen Reddy and Chorus); [0:35] It's Not Easy (sung by Sean Marshall and Helen Reddy); [0:43] Passamaquoddy (sung by Jim Dale and Townspeople); [0:51] Candle on the Water (sung by Helen Reddy); [1:09] There's Room for Everyone (sung by Helen Reddy, Sean Marshall and School Children; danced by School Children); [1:18] Every Little Piece (sung and danced by Jim Dale and Red Buttons); [1:28] Brazzle Dazzle Day (sung and danced by Helen Reddy, Sean Marshall and Mickey Rooney); [1:35] Bill of Sale (sung by Shelley Winters, Charles Tyner, Gary Morgan and Jeff Conaway); [2:02] I Saw a Dragon (reprised by Helen Reddy, Mickey Rooney and Townspeople); [2:04] Brazzle Dazzle Day (reprised by Helen Reddy and Townspeople)

Peter Pan
Walt Disney / RKO, 1953, Color, 76 minutes, ****
Released February, 1953

Adaptation of J. M. Barrie's story about a boy who never grew up. The three children of the Darling family receive a visit from Peter Pan, who takes them to Never Never Land where an ongoing war with the evil Pirate Captain Hook is taking place. I'm sure I don't have to tell you any more... is there anyone out there who doesn't know this story? This is the definitive film production of this story, in my opinion.

In my opinion, this film - of all of the films that came from the Disney Studios - best represents what Walt Disney and Company were all about. It is the epitome of bright, colorful caricatures; high-spirited adventure and a "let's pretend" philosophy that still warms the hearts of millions of people the world over. This was the pinnacle of the Disney Studio's achievements. There should be a lot more of the "I never want to grow up" attitude in all of us, and perhaps the world wouldn't need escapism!

Producer: Walt Disney
Directors: Hamilton Luske, Clyde Geronimi, Wilfred Jackson
Story: Ted Sears, Erdman Penner, Bill Peet, Winston Hibler, Joe Rinaldi, Milt Banta, Ralph Wright, Bill Cottrell
An adaptation of the play "Peter Pan" by Sir James M. Barrie
"Walt Disney Productions is grateful to the Hospital for Sick Children, Great Ormond Street, London, to which Sir James M. Barrie gave his copyright of Peter Pan."
Musical Score by: Oliver Wallace
Songs by: Sammy Fain, Sammy Cahn, Oliver Wallace, Frank Churchill, Ed Penner, Winston Hibler, Ted Sears
Orchestration: Edward Plumb
Vocal Arrangements: Jud Conlon
Directing Animators: Marc Davis, Norm Ferguson, Wolfgang Reitherman
Sound Director: C. O. Slyfield
Sound Recording: Harold J. Steck, Robert O. Cook
Music Editor: Al Teeter
Special Processes: Ub Iwerks
Color by Technicolor
Film Editor: Donald Halliday

Cast: (Voices) Bobby Driscoll [voice of Peter Pan], Kathryn Beaumont [voice of Wendy Darling], Hans Conried [voice of Captain Hook and Mr. Darling], Bill Thompson [voice of Mr. Smee and Other Pirates], Heather Angel [voice of Mrs. Darling], Paul Collins [voice of John], Tommy Luske [voice of Michael], Candy Candido [voice of Indian Chief], Tom Conway [Narrator], Roland Dupree, Don Barclay [Extra Voices]

Musical Program: [0:00] Main Title: The Second Star to the Right (sung by The Jud Conlon Chorus); [0:18] You Can Fly! You Can Fly! You Can Fly! (sung by Bobby Driscoll, Kathryn Beaumont, Paul Collins, Tommy Luske and the Jud Conlon Chorus); [0:20] A Pirate's Life (sung by Mens Chorus [pirates]); [0:22] A Pirate's Life (reprised by the Jud Conlon Chorus [one pirate]); [0:24] Never Smile at a Crocodile (played by Orchestra as part of background score, generally repeated whenever the crocodile is on-screen); [0:32] Following the Leader (sung by Bobby Driscoll, Paul Collins and the Jud Conlon Chorus); [0:50] What Made the Red Man Red (sung by Candy Candido and the Judy Conlon Chorus); [0:56] What Made the Red Man Red (reprised by Lost Boys); [0:58] Your Mother and Mine (sung by Kathryn Beaumont); [1:02] The Elegant Captain Hook (sung by Hans Conried, Bill Thompson and The Jud Conlon Chorus); [1:15] You Can Fly! You Can Fly! You Can Fly! (sung by the Jud Conlon Chorus)

Phantom of the Opera
Universal, 1943, Color, 93 minutes, ***
Released August, 1943

Winner of two Academy Awards, this lavish Technicolor retelling of the horror classic stars Claude Rains as the acid-scarred composer who seeks vengeance from beneath the Paris Opera House. Co-stars Nelson Eddy, Hume Cronyn, Leo Carillo, and Susanna Foster as the Phantom's love interest.

Produced by: George Waggner
Directed by: Arthur Lubin
Assistant Director: Charles Gould
Screenplay by: Eric Taylor, Samuel Hoffenstein
Adaptation: John Jacoby
Based on the composition Le Fantôme de l'Opéra by Gaston Leroux [1910]
Music Score and Direction: Edward Ward
Musical Composers: Edward Ward (operatic score); George Waggner
Opera Sequences Staged by: William von Wymetal, Lester Horton
Choral Direction: William Tyroler
Orchestrations: Harold Zweifel, Arthur Schutt
Art Direction: John B. Goodman, Alexander Golitzen
Set Decorations: R. A. Gausman, Ira S. Webb
Costumes: Vera West
Hair Stylist: Emily Moore
Maks-Up Artist: Jack Pierce Sound Director: Bernard B. Brown
   Technician: Joe Lapis
Directors of Photography: Hal Mohr, W. Howard Greene
Special Effects: Tim Barr
Filmed in Technicolor
Technicolor Color Director: Natalie Kalmus
Film Editor: Russell Schoengarth

Awards: Academy Awards for Best Color Cinematography (Hal Mohr and W. Howard Greene) and Best Interior Decoration, Color; Academy Award nominations for Best Score, Musical (Edward Ward) and Best Sound Recording

Cast: Nelson Eddy [Anatole Garron], Susanna Foster [Christine DuBois], Claude Rains [Enrique Claudin], Edgar Barrier [Raoul Daubert], Leo Carrillo [Signor Ferretti], Jane Farrar [Biancarolli], J. Edward Bromberg [Amiot], Fritz Feld [Lecours], Frank Puglia [Villeneuve], Steven Geray [Vercheres], Barbara Everest [Aunt], Hume Cronyn [Gerard], Fritz Leiber [Franz Liszt], Nicki Andre [Lorenzi], Gladys Blake [Jeanne], Elvira Curci [Biancarolli's Maid], Hans Herbert [Marcel], Kate Lawson [Landlady], Miles Mander [Pleyel], Rosina Galli [Christine's Maid], Walter Stahl [Doctor], Paul Marion [Desjardines], Additional Cast: Tudor Williams, Anthony Marlowe [MARTHA Singers], Beatrice Roberts [Nurse], Marek Windheim [Renfrit], Muni Seroff [Reporter], Belle Mitchell [Feretti's Maid], Ernest Golm [Office Manager], Renee Carson [Georgette Pleyel's Girl Friend], Lane Chandler, Stan Blystone [Officers], Cyril Delevanti [Bookkeeper], John Walsh [Office Boy], Richard Bartell, Wheaton Chambers, Jim Mitchell [Reporters], Alphonse Martell [Policeman], Edward Clark [Usher], William Desmond [Stagehand], Hank Mann [Stagehand], Sally Sweetland [singing voice of Jane Farrar]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:01] MARTHA (Act III, excerpts sung by Nelson Eddy, Sally Sweetland dubbing for Jane Farrar, Susanna Foster and Ensemble); [0:13] Lullaby of the Bells (excerpt played on violin by Claude Rains [onscreen], used as theme in background score); [0:32] Lullaby of the Bells (sung by Susanna Foster and Nelson Eddy); [0:41] Amour et Gloire (excerpts sung by Nelson Eddy, Sally Sweetland dubbing for Jane Farrar, Susanna Foster and Ensemble); [1:07] Le Prince Masque du Caucasus (excerpts sung by Nelson Eddy, Nicki Andre and Ensemble); [1:23] Lullaby of the Bells (Concerto by Enrique Claudin played by Franz Lizst at the piano and Orchestra onstage, accompanied by Enrique Claudin in the basement, partly sung by Christine DuBois)

The Pied Piper of Hamelin
Hal Stanley, 1957, Color, 89 minutes, ***
First aired November 26, 1957

Based on the Brothers Grimm tale, this made-for-TV movie tells the well-known tale of Hamelin, a village plagued by rats. In order to deal with the problem, the village Mayor hires a Piper to lure the rodents away and agrees to a handsome fee as payment. The rats are led away, only to have the mayor renege on his promise. The Piper takes revenge by luring all the children of the village to his mountain lair. Don't worry, the film offers a happy ending. Most of the film dialogue is spoken in rhyme (borrowed from Robert Browning's poem) over an excellent Edvard Grieg music score.

Produced by: Hal Stanley
Production Supervisor: Richard A. Larson
Directed by: Bretaigne Windust
Assistant Director: Maurice Vaccarino
Book and Lyrics by: Irving Taylor and Hal Stanley
[Some dialogue from the Poem by Robert Browning]
Based on the music of Edvard Grieg (Peer Gynt)
Musical Conductor: Pete King
Choreography by: Ward Ellis
Production Designed by: Arthur Lonergan
Set Decoration: G. W. Berntsen
Wardrobe by: Berman
Sound Effects: Walter Elliott
Music Editor: Kenneth Wilhoit
Director of Photography: William E. Snyder
Special Photographic Effects: Jack Rabin, Louis DeWitt, Irving Block
Filmed in Technicolor
Color Supervisor: Alex Quiroga
Supervising Film Editor: Floyd Knudtson
Film Editor: Norman A. Cerf

Cast: Van Johnson [Pied Piper / Truson], Claude Rains [Mayor of Hamelin], Lori Nelson [Mara], Jim Backus [King's Emissary], Kay Starr [John's Mother], Rene Kroper [Paul], Oliver Blake [Leading Citizen], Amzie Strickland [Leading Townswoman], Doodles Weaver [First Counselor], Stanley Adams [Second Counselor], Carl Benton Reid [Mayor of Hamelout]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture (contains elements of Peer Gynt: In the Hall of the Mountain King, played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:02] In the Hall of the Mountain King (adaptation danced by Van Johnson); [0:03] The Work Song (sung by Townspeople); [0:09] How Can I Tell You (sung by Van Johnson to Lori Nelson); [0:16] Prestige (sung and danced by Mayor and Council); [0:29] Feats of the Piper (sung by Van Johnson and Townspeople); [0:36] In the Hall of the Mountain King (played by Orchestra with Chorus as the Piper chases the rats out of town); [0:44] Flim Flam Floo (sung by Van Johnson to Children); [0:53] Fool's Gold (sung by Van Johnson); [0:56] How Can I Tell You (reprise sung by Lori Nelson accompanied by music box); [0:59] The Emmisary's Song (sung by Townspeople); [1:05] How Can I Tell You (sung by Lori Nelson and Van Johnson); [1:12] A Mother's Lament (sung by Kay Starr)

Pigskin Parade
20th Century-Fox, 1936, B/W, 93 minutes, ***½
Released October, 1936

Judy Garland's first feature film; she was 14 years old. This was the first and last time MGM ever loaned her to another studio. Stuart Erwin was nominated for Best Supporting Actor, though Fox considered him the leading man. Dixie Dunbar dances to "You're Slightly Terrific", the Yacht club boys sing several of their own tunes including the humorous "We'd Rather Be in College", and Judy sings three terrific songs with gusto. Jack Haley and Patsy Kelly are great as the coach and his domineering wife!

In Charge of Production: Darryl F. Zanuck
Associate Producer: Bogart Rogers
Directed by: David Butler
Assistant Director: Ad Schaumer
Screen Play by: Harry Tugend, Jack Yellen and William Conselman
Based on a story by Arthur Sheekman, Nat Perrin and Mark Kelly
Music and Lyrics: "It's Love I'm After", "You're Slightly Terrific", "You Do the Darndest Things, Baby", "The Balboa", "The Texas Tornado", "T.S.U. Alma Mater" by Lew Pollack and Sidney D. Mitchell
Yacht Club Boys Songs: "Down with Everything", "Woo! Woo!" "We'd Rather Be in College", "Football Song" Written and Sung by The Yacht Club Boys
Musical Direction: David Buttolph
Technical Advisor: Victor M. Kelley
Art Direction: Hans Peters
Set Decorations by: Thomas Little
Costumes: Gwen Wakeling
Sound: Bernard Freericks, Roger Heman
Photography: Arthur Miller
Film Editor: Irene Morra

Awards: Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor (Stuart Erwin). Interestingly, 20th Century-Fox considered Erwin the lead; so his supporting actor nomination was something of a mixed blessing.

Cast: Stuart Erwin [Amos Dodd], Patsy Kelly [Bessie Winters], Jack Haley [Slug Winters], The Yacht Club Boys [Themselves], Johnny Downs [Chip Carson], Betty Grable [Laura Watson], Arline Judge [Sally Saxon], Dixie Dunbar [Ginger Jones], Judy Garland [Sairy Dodd], Anthony (Tony) Martin [Tommy Baker], Elisha Cook, Jr. [H. Tewilliger VanDyck], Sam Hayes [Radio Announcer], Fred Kohler Jr., Grady Sutton, Eddie Nugent, Julius Tannen, Pat Flaherty, Si Jenks [Bits]

Musical Program: [0:13] T.S.U. Alma Mater (sung by Chorus); [0:15] You're Slightly Terrific (sung by Tony Martin, danced by Martin and Dixie Dunbar with Ensemble); [0:20] Woo! Woo! (sung by the Yacht Club Boys); [0:28] We'd Rather Be in College (sung by the Yacht Club Boys); [0:50] Down with Everything (sung by the Yacht Club Boys); [0:58] The Balboa (sung and danced by Dixie Dunbar, Johnny Downs, Betty Grable, Judy Garland, Jack Haley, Patsy Kelly and The Yacht Club Boys); [1:04] You Do the Darndest Things, Baby (sung by Jack Haley); [1:09] The Texas Tornado (sung by Judy Garland); [1:11] It's Love I'm After (sung by Judy Garland); [1:20] The Texas Sunshine (sung by the Yacht Club Boys and Company); [1:30] The Texas Tornado (reprised by Company)

For more details see the Pigskin Parade page on JGDB:


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Pin Up Girl
20th Century-Fox, 1944, Color, 83 minutes, ***
Released April, 1944

Hilarious situations spring up all over in this musical comedy about a girl who simply can't stop telling lies.

Famed World War II pin-up girl Betty Grable stars as Lorry, the most popular girl at the USO in a small midwestern town. En route to a new job in Washington, D.C., Lorry, a secretary, takes a detour to New York, where she and a friend crash a ritzy nightclub, and Lorry pretends to be a Broadway star. This provides a backdrop for lavish production numbers, with Grable in gorgeous gowns showing her glorious gams. Comic actors Marth Raye and Joe E. Brown fill out the cast, joined by the swing orchestra of Charlie Spivak and the Stardusters singing group.  [from back of DVD case]

Produced by: William LeBaron
Directed by: Bruce Humberstone
Screen Play by: Robert Ellis and Helen Logan and Earl Baldwin
Based on a Story by Libbie Block
Lyrics and Music by: Mack Gordon and James Monaco
Musical Direction: Emil Newman, Charles Henderson
Dances Staged by: Hermes Pan
Military Number Staged by: Alice Sullivan
Roller Skating Number by: Gae Foster
Musical Numbers Supervised by: Fanchon
Art Direction: James Basevi, Joseph C. Wright
Set Decorations: Thomas Little
Associate: Paul S. Fox
Costumes: Rene Hubert
Makeup Artist: Guy Pearce
Sound: Eugene Grossman, Roger Heman
Director of Photography: Ernest Palmer
Special Photographic Effects by: Fred Sersen
Photographed in Technicolor
Technicolor Director: Natalie Kalmus
Associate: Richard Mueller
Film Editor: Robert Simpson

Cast: Betty Grable [Lorry Jones], John Harvey [Tommy Dooley], Martha Raye [Molly McKay], Joe E. Brown [Eddie Hall], Eugene Pallette [Barney Briggs], Skating Vanities [Roller Skating Troupe], Dorothea Kent [Kay], Dave Willock [Dud Miller], Condos Brothers [Dance Specialty], Charlie Spivak and His Orchestra [Themselves], Additional Cast: Robert E. Homans [Stage Doorman], Marcel Dalio [Headwaiter], Roger Clark [George], Leon Belasco [Captain of Waiters], Irving Bacon [Window Cleaner], Walter Tetley [Messenger Boy], Ruth Warren [Scrubwoman], Max Willenz [Waiter], Mantan Moreland, Charles Moore [Redcaps], Gloria Nord [Roller Skating Headliner], J. Farrell MacDonald [Trainman], Lillian Porter [Cigarette Girl], Bess Flowers [Club Patron], Hermes Pan [Dance Specialty Number], Angela Blue [Dance Specialty Number], The Stardusters (with June Hutton) [Themselves]

Musical Program: [0:00] You're My Little Pin Up Girl (sung by Chorus behind titles); [0:02] You're My Little Pin Up Girl (sung by Betty Grable and Chorus dubbing for Soldiers and Hostesses at U.S.O.; danced by the Condos Brothers); [0:13] Time Alone Will Tell (sung by the Stardusters with June Hutton, backed by Charlie Spivak and His Orchestra); [0:20] Red Robins, Bob Whites and Blue Birds (sung by Martha Raye with Charlie Spivak and His Orchestra; sung by Chorus and rollerskated by the Skating Vanities); [0:29] Don't Carry Tales out of School (sung and danced by Betty Grable and male quartet [four guys from the band, I think] with Charlie Spivak and His Orchestra); [0:48] Yankee Doodle Hayride (sung by Martha Raye with Charlie Spivak and His Orchestra then danced by the Condos Brothers); [0:57] Once Too Often (extended instrumental intro by Charlie Spival and His Orchestra, sung by Betty Grable, danced by Betty Grable and Hermes Pan accompanied by Charlie Spivak and His Orchestra); [1:11] Don't Carry Tales out of School (sung by Betty Grable and several members of the band with Charlie Spivak and His Orchestra); [1:14] The Story of the Very Merry Widow (sung by Betty Grable and Chorus, sung and danced by Chorus); [1:18] WAVE precision drill team number led by Betty Grable in uniform

The Pirate
MGM, 1948, Color, 102 minutes, ***½
Premiere release May, 1948
General release June, 1948

Young Carribean native Manuela (Judy Garland) yearns to see the world and dreams of being whisked away by the dreaded pirate, Macoco. But when she gets a taste of life in the big city she finds it a bit too bawdy for her tastes and quickly returns home. But life and romance pursue her in the form of Serafin, an actor who has heard her confess her romantic yen for Macoco. He disguises himself as the feared pirate and follows the young girl to her home where he attempts to fulfill her most secret desires. Lots of classic Garland comedy. Judy sings a very provocative "Mack the Black", and Gene Kelly sings and dances "Be a Clown" with the amazing Nicholas Brothers and later with Judy. Fun-filled film!

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

Produced by: Arthur Freed
Directed by: Vincente Minnelli
Screen Play by: Albert Hackett and Frances Goodrich
Based on the Play by S. N. Behrman as produced by The Playwrights Producing Company and The Theatre Guild
(some sources also credit Lillian Braun, Anita Loos, Joseph L. Mankiewicz, Joseph Than and Wilkie Mahoney as having contributed to the writing)
Musical Direction: Lennie Hayton
Instrumental Arrangements: Conrad Salinger
Songs by: Cole Porter
Dance Direction by: Robert Alton and Gene Kelly
Art Directors: Cedric Gibbons and Jack Martin Smith
Paintings by: Doris Lee
Set Decorations: Edwin B. Willis
   Associate: Arthur Krans
Costume Supervision: Irene
   Costumes Designed by: Tom Keogh
   And Executed by: Karinska
Hair Styles Designed by: Sydney Guilaroff
Make-Up Created by: Jack Dawn
Recording Director: Douglas Shearer
Director of Photography: Harry Stradling
Color by Technicolor
Technicolor Color Director: Natalie Kalmus
   Associate: Henri Jaffa
Film Editor: Blanche Sewell

Awards: Academy Award nomination for Best Score, Musical (Lennie Hayton)

Cast: Judy Garland [Manuela Alva], Gene Kelly [Serafin], Walter Slezak [Don Pedro Vargas], Gladys Cooper [Aunt Inez], Reginald Owen [The Advocate], George Zucco [The Viceroy], Nicholas Brothers [Dance Specialty], Lester Allen [Uncle Capucho], Lola Deem [Isabella], Ellen Ross [Mercedes], Mary Jo Ellis [Lizarda], Jean Dean [Casilda], Marion Murray [Eloise], Ben Lessey [Gumbo], Jerry Bergen [Bolo], Val Setz [Juggler], Gaudsmith Brothers [Themselves], Cully Richards [Trillo]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture: includes vocal of "Mack the Black" (excerpt sung by Chorus); [0:14] Niña (sung and danced by Gene Kelly with Chorus Girls); [0:31] Mack the Black (sung and danced by Judy Garland and Chorus); [0:54] The Pirate Ballet (production number, played by Orchestra, danced by Gene Kelly and Ensemble); [1:14] You Can Do No Wrong (sung by Judy Garland); [1:27] Be a Clown (sung and danced by Gene Kelly and the Nicholas Brothers); [1:34] Love of My Life (sung by Judy Garland); [1:38] Be a Clown (sung and danced by Judy Garland and Gene Kelly)


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Critics are constantly complaining that screen adaptations don't live up to the original stage presentations (and they also complain when re-makes are too much like the original). Well, who am I to know? I don't have the opportunity to see many stage productions, especially those from the 1800s. No-one alive has seen the original version as staged by G&S. But I have the original libretto to "The Pirates of Penzance" (see below), and this film follows that libretto quite well. A few minor changes have been made here and there, but for the most part the changes seem to add humor and some modern-day references.

Actually, it's a tribute to Gilbert and Sullivan that the libretto requires very little change (if any) to bring it up to date for modern-day audiences. At any rate, this film is a lot of fun! See Kevin Kline sing and dance! See Angela Lansbury as a pirate! See Linda Ronstadt sing opera! Laugh at the Keystone Cops interpretation of the Constabulary! Required watching for all musical fans!

NOTE: The DVD is the stage version of this production. The cast is the same with the exception of Angela Lansbury. And the production is a little different with the movie version adding some clowning around that probably wouldn't work on-stage. It's subtle stuff that requires a good view. And if you prefer, there are more traditional productions availbale on VHS and DVD.

Producer: Joseph Papp
Co-producer: Timothy Burrill
Associate Producers: Andrew Tribe, Stephen Katz
Executive Producer: Edward R. Pressman
Production Supervisor: Alexander De Grunwald
Directed by: Wilford Leach
Assistant Director: Barry Langley
Screenplay by: Wilford Leach
Based on the comic light opera by Gilbert and Sullivan
The film is based on the New York Shakespeare Festival Stage Production
Made at Shepperton Studio Centre, England
Music Adapted, Orchestrated and Conducted by: William Elliott
Music Produced by: Peter Asher
Words by: Sir William Schwenck Gilbert
Music by: Sir Arthur Seymour Sullivan
Additional music composed by: William Elliott from themes by Sir Arthur Sullivan
Choreography by: Graciela Daniele
Assistant Choreographer: Roy Jones
Production Designer: Elliot Scott
Art Direction: Ernest Archer, Alan Cassie
Set Decoration: Peter Howitt
Costume Designer: Tom Rand
Make-up: Jill Carpenter
Hair: Ramon Gow
Special Effects Supervisor: Brian Johnson
Director of Photography: Douglas Slocombe
Additional Photography: Paul Beeson
Filmed in Panavision and Technicolor
Film Editor: Anne V. Coates

Cast: Kevin Kline [Pirate King], Angela Lansbury [Ruth], Linda Ronstadt [Mabel], George Rose [Major-General], Rex Smith [Frederic], Tony Azito [Sergeant], David Hatton [Samuel], Louise Gold [Edith], Teresa Codling [Kate], Leni Harper, Clare McIntyre, Louise Papillon, Tilly Vosburgh, Nancy Wood [Other Daughters], Anthony Arundell, John Asquith, Mohamed Aazzi, Tim Bentinck, Ross Davidson, Mike Grady, Simon Howe, Tony Millan, G. B. Zoot Money, Andrew Paul, Ken Leigh Rogers, Mohamed Serhani, Mike Walling [Pirates], Peppi Borza, Nicholas Chagrin, Frankie Cull, David Hampshire, Phillip Harrison, Maurice Lane, Neil McCaul, Jerry Manley, Rhys Nelson, Garry Noakes, Chris Power, Kenny Warwick [Policemen], Preston Lockwood [Orchestra Conductor], Romolo Bruni [Pinafore Captain], John Bett, Lennie Byrne, Jo Cameron-Brown, Zulema Dene, Norma Eitler, Carole Forbes, Jack Honeyborne, Carol Macready, Brian Markham, Valerie Minifie, Linda Spurrier, Ursula Stedman [Pinafore Company], Stephen Hanan [Singing Voice of Samuel], Alexandra Korey [Singing Voice of Edith], Marcia Shaw [Singing Voice of Kate]

Musical Program: [0:04] Pour, Oh Pour the Pirate Sherry (performed by Kevin Kline, David Hatton, Rex Smith and Pirates); [0:07] When Frederic Was a Little Lad (performed by Angela Lansbury with Pirates); [0:15] Oh, Better for to Live and Die (performed by Kevin Kline and Pirates); [0:21] Oh, False One, You Have Deceived Me! (performed by Angela Lansbury and Rex Smith); [0:24] Climbing over Rocky Mountain (performed by Daughters); [0:28] Stop, Ladies, Pray (performed by Rex Smith and Daughters); [0:30] Oh, Is There Not One Maiden Breast (Rex Smith and Daughters); [0:34] Poor Wandering One! (performed by Linda Ronstadt and Daughters); [0:39] Stay, We Must Not Lose Our Senses (performed by Rex Smith, Daughters and Pirates); [0:40] Hold, Monsters (performed by Linda Ronstadt, Angela Lansbury, David Hatton, George Rose, Daughters and Pirates); [0:41] I Am the Very Model of a Modern Major-General (performed by George Rose, Pirates and Daugthers); [0:47] Oh, Men of Dark and Dismal Fate (performed by George Rose, Kevin Kline, Pirates and Daughters); [0:54] Oh, Dry the Glist'ning Tear (performed by Linda Ronstadt and Daughters); [0:57] Then, Frederic, Let Your Escort Lion-Hearted (performed by George Rose and Rex Smith); [0:57] When the Foeman Bears His Steel (performed by Tony Azito, Linda Ronstadt, Policemen and Daughters); [1:02] Now for the Pirates' Lair (performed by Rex Smith, Kevin Kline and Angela Lansbury); [1:04] When You Had Left Our Pirate Fold (performed by Angela Lansbury, Rex Smith and Kevin Kline); [1:09] My Eyes Are Fully Open (performed by Rex Smith, Angela Lansbury and Kevin Kline); [1:13] Away, Away! My Heart's On Fire (performed by Angela Lansbury, Kevin Kline and Rex Smith); [1:15] Stay, Frederic, Stay! (performed by Linda Ronstadt and Rex Smith); [1:21] No, I Am Brave (performed by Linda Ronstadt, Tony Azito and Policemen); [1:25] When a Felon's Not Engaged in His Employment (performed by Tony Azito and Policemen); [1:26] A Rollicking Band of Pirates We (performed by Pirates, Tony Azito and Policemen); [1:28] With Cat-Like Tread, Upon Our Prey We Steal (performed by Pirates, Policemen and David Hatton); [1:31] Hush, Hush! Not a Word (performed by Rex Smith, Pirates, Policemen, and George Rose); [1:32] Sighing Softly to the River (performed by George Rose and Ensemble); [1:37] Finale (performed by The Company)


Original libretto
"As first produced at the Fifth Avenue Theatre,
New York, under the management of
Mr. R. D'Oyly Carte,
Wednesday, Dec. 31, 1879."

Please Don't Eat the Daisies
Euterpe / MGM, 1960, Color, 111 minutes, ***
Released March, 1960

Pleasant comedy stars David Niven and Doris Day as the drama critic and his wife who pack up their brood and move from New York City to a dilapidated old house in the country, only to find old and new problems awaiting them. Janis Paige, Patsy Kelly, Richard Haydn co-star.

The Doris Day Collection, Vol. 1 DVD Box Set (shown right) contains this film and Jumbo, Calamity Jane, The Glass Bottom Boat, Love Me or Leave Me, Lullaby of Broadway, The Pajama Game, Young Man with a Horn.

Produced by: Joe Pasternak
Associate Producer: Martin Melcher
Assistant to the Producer: Irving Aaronson
Directed by: Charles Walters
Assistant Director: Al Jennings
Screen Play by: Isobel Lennart
Based on the Book by Jean Kerr
Music Score: David Rose
Songs: "Please Don't Eat the Daisies" Lyric and Music by Joe Lubin; "Anyway the Wind Blows" Lyric by By Dunham, Music by Marilyn Hooven and Joe Hooven
Art Directors: George W. Davis and Hans Peters
Set Decorations: Henry Grace, Jerry Wunderlich
Costumes by: Morton Haack
Hair Styles by: Sydney Guilaroff
Makeup by: William Tuttle
Recording Supervisor: Franklin Milton
Director of Photography: Robert Bronner
Filmed in CinemaScope and Mertocolor
Color Consultant: Charles K. Hagedon
Film Editor: John McSweeney, Jr.

Cast: Doris Day [Kate Mackay], David Niven [Lawrence Mackay], Janis Paige [Deborah Vaughn], Spring Byington [Mrs. Suzie Robinson], Richard Haydn [Alfred North], Patsy Kelly [Maggie], Jack Weston [Joe Positano], John Harding [Rev. Dr. McQuarry], Margaret Lindsay [Mona James], Charles Herbert [David Mackay], Stanley Livingston [Gabriel Mackay], Flip Mark [George Mackay], Baby Gellert [Adam Mackay], Carmen Phillips [Mary Smith], Mary Patton [Mrs. Hunter], Marina Koshetz [Jane March], Geraldine Wall [Dr. Sprouk], Kathryn Card [Miss Yule], Donald Foster [Justin Winters], Irene Tedrow [Mrs. Greenfield], Anatole Winogradoff [Paul Foster], Benny Rubin [Pete], Madge Blake [Mrs. Kilkinny], Peter Leeds [Larry's Secretary], Joe Cronin [Pianist], Bobby Darin [Man], Bess Flowers [Lady in Elevator]

Musical Program: [0:00] Overture: "Please Don't Eat the Daisies" (instrumental arrangement played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:18] Que Sera Sera (Whatever Will Be Will Be) (excerpt sung by Doris Day); [1:25] Please Don't Eat the Daisies (sung and danced by Doris Day and School Children); [1:35] Any Way the Wind Blows (sung and danced by Doris Day and Chorus)

Poor Little Rich Girl
20th Century-Fox, 1936, B/W, 72 minutes, ***
Released July, 1936

Sent off by her widowed father to attend a private school, chipper gamine Shirley Temple runs away and joins a song and dance duo in this spry musical treat for the whole family. Co-stars Jack Haley, Alice Faye, Gloria Stuart. Songs include "Oh My Goodness" and "Military Man".

Producer: Darryl F. Zanuck
Director: Irving Cummings
Screenplay: Harry Tugend, Sam Hellman and Gladys Lehman
(based on stories by Eleanor Gates and Ralph Spence)
Music Director: Louis Silvers
Song Score: Mack Gordon and Harry Revel
Choreography: Ralph Cooper and Jack Haskell
Art Direction: William Darling, Rudolph Sternad
Costume Design: Gwen Wakeling
Cinematography: John F. Seitz
Film Editing: Jack Murray

Cast: Shirley Temple [Barbara Barry], Alice Faye [Jerry Dolan], Gloria Stuart [Margaret Allen], Jack Haley [Jimmy Dolan], Michael Whalen [Richard Barry], Sara Haden [Collins], Jane Darwell [Woodward], Claude Gillingwater [Simon Peck], Paul Stanton [George Hathaway], Henry Armetta [Tony], Charles Coleman [Stebbins], Arthur Hoyt [Percival Gooch], John Wray [Flagin], Tyler Brooke [Dan Ward], Mathilde Comont [Tony's Wife], Tony Martin [Radio Vocalist]

Musical Program: [0:07] Oh My Goodness (Shirley Temple); [0:14] Buy a Bar of Barry's (Tony Martin with the "Barry Baritones"); [0:15] When I'm with You (Tony Martin); [0:17] When I'm with You (special lyric, Shirley Temple); [0:35] But Definitely (Alice Faye and Shirley Temple); [0:54] Wash Your Necks with a Bar of Peck's (Shirley Temple); [0:55] When I'm with You (Alice Faye); [0:57] You've Gotta Eat Your Spinach, Baby (Jack Haley, Alice Faye, Shirley Temple); [1:05] When I'm with You (Shirley Temple); [1:14] (I Love A) Military Man (sung and danced by Jack Haley, Alice Faye and Shirley Temple)

Presenting Lily Mars
MGM, 1943, B/W, 104 minutes, ***½
Released April, 1943

Charming and refreshing little tale with Judy Garland as a persistent actress who sets her heart on making it big on Broadway. Van Heflin is the producer whom she consistently nags. Musical highlights include "Ev'ry Little Movement (Has a Meaning of Its Own)" and "When I Look at You". Marta Eggerth, Bob Crosby and Tommy Dorsey are also onhand for more musical treats.

Producer: Joe Pasternak
Director: Norman Taurog
Screenplay: Richard Connell and Gladys Lehman
  (based on the novel by Booth Tarkington)
Music Director: George Stoll
Song Score: Jurmann, Webster, Harburg, Lane, and Edens
Choreography: Ernst Matray
Art Direction: Cedric Gibbons and Harry McAfee
Set Decoration: Edwin B. Willis
Gowns: Shoup
Sound: Douglas Shearer, Norwood A. Fenton
Special Effects: Warren Newcombe
Director of Photography: Joseph Ruttenberg
Film Editing: Albert Akst

Cast: Judy Garland [Lily Mars], Van Heflin [John "Thorny" Thornway], Fay Bainter [Mrs. Thornway], Richard Carlson [Owen Vail], Spring Byington [Mrs. Mars], Martra Eggerth [Isobel Rekay], Connie Gilchrist [Frankie], Leonid Kinskey [Leo], Patricia Barker [Poppy], Janet Chapman [Violet], Annabelle Logan [Rosie], Douglas Croft [Davey], Ray McDonald [Charlie Potter], Tommy Dorsey and His Orchestra [Themselves], Bob Crosby and His Orchestra [Themselves], The Wilde Twins [Themselves], Charles Walters [Specialty Dancer], Joe Yule [Mike, the stage doorman], Gus Schilling [Scotty], Almira Sessions [Boarding House Owner]

Musical Program: [0:24] Is It Love (Or the Gypsy in Me?) (sung by Marta Eggerth); [0:33] Tom, Tom, the Piper's Son (sung by Judy Garland); [0:48] Ev'ry Little Movement (Has a Meaning of Its Own) (sung by Judy Garland and Mary Kent dubbing for Connie Gilchrist); [0:50] When I Look at You (sung by Marta Eggerth); [1:06] When I Look at You (sung by Marta Eggerth); [1:10] When I Look at You (ballad version sung by Judy Garland with Bob Crosby and His Orchestra); [1:10] Caro Nome (When I Look at You) (comedy version sung by Judy Garland with Bob Crosby and His Orchestra); [1:08] When You Think of Lovin', Baby, Think of Me (Bob Crosby and His Orchestra with the Wilde Twins); [1:24] Kulebiaka (sung by Marta Eggerth, reprised by Judy Garland); [1:38] Where There's Music (Judy Garland and Chorus); [1:40] Three O'Clock in the Morning (Judy Garland and Chorus); [1:41] Broadway Rhythm (danced by Judy Garland and Charles Walters, sung by Judy Garland with Tommy Dorsey and His Orchestra and the MGM Studio Chorus)


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The Princess and the Pirate
Goldwyn / RKO, 1944, Color, 94 minutes, ***
Released November, 1944

Princess Margaret is travelling incognito to elope with her true love instead of marrying the man her father has betrothed her to. On the high seas, her ship is attacked by pirates who know her identity and plan to kidnap her and hold her for a king's ransom. Little do the cutthroats know that she will be rescued by that unlikeliest of knights errant, Sylvester the Great, who will lead them on a merry, and madcap, chase.

Crazy comedy is very entertaining. Not a musical, but does have one song.

Produced by: Samuel Goldwyn
Associate Producer: Don Hartman
Directed by: David Butler
Screen Play by: Don Hartman, Melville Shavelson and Everett Freeman,
Adaptation by: Allen Boretz and Curtis Kenyon
Suggested by a Story by: Sy Bartlett
Music: David Rose
The Song: "Kiss Me in the Moonlight" by Jimmy McHugh and Harold Adamson
Art Direction: Ernst Fegté
   Associate: McClure Capps
Art Consultant: Hugo Ballin
Set Decorations: Howard Bristol
Make-up: Robert Stephanoff
Hair Stylist: Nina Roberts
Costumes: Mary Grant
Sound Recorder: Fred Lau
Director of Photography: Victor Milner, William Snyder
Special Photographic Effects: R. O. Binger, Clarence Slifer
Filmed in Technicolor
Technicolor Color Director: Natalie Kalmus
   Associate: Mitchell Kovaleski
Film Editor: Daniel Mandell

Cast: Bob Hope [Sylvester the Great], Virginia Mayo [Princess Margaret], Walter Brennan [Featherhead], Walter Slezak [La Roche], Victor McLaglen [Captain Barrett, "The Hook"], Marc Lawrence [Pedro], Hugo Haas [Propietor of "Bucket of Blood" Inn], Maude Eburne [Landlady], Adia Kuznetzoff [Don José Ramon Sebastian Rurales], Brandon Hurst [Mr. Pelly], Tom Kennedy [Alonzo], Stanley Andrews [Captain of "Mary Ann"], Robert Warwick [The King], Additional Cast: Bing Crosby [cameo as Commoner on King's Ship], Rondo Hatton [Gorilla], Oscar Hendrian, Frank Moran [Hecklers], Richard Alexander [Hold-Up Man], Ernie Adams [Hold-Up Victim], Constantine Romanoff [Citizen Hit with Blackjack], Ted Billings, Robert Hale [Citizens], Jack Carr [Hugo, Bartender at Bucket of Blood], Alma Carroll, Ruth Valmy [Handmaidens], Vic Christy, Art Miles [Thugs], Sammy Stein [Blackjack Thug], Colin Kenny [First Mate on "Mary Ann"], Stewart Garner [Sailor on the "Mary Ann"], James Flavin [Naval Officer], Edwin Stanley [Captain of the King's Ship], Weldon Heyburn, Edward Peil, Sr. [Palace Guards], Bill Hunter [Soldier at the Gate], Jack Shea [Governor's Guard], Ray Teal [Guard], Tom Tyler [Lieutenant], Crane Whitley [Soldier], Chuck Hamilton [Charlie, Dueling Dandy-Pirate], Harry Wilson [Pirate at Bucket of Blood], Francis Ford [Drunken Pirate], Bert Roach [Companion of Drunken Pirate], Ralph Dunn [Murderous Pirate], Al Hill, Dick Rich, Kit Guard, Al Bridge, Harry Semels, Mike Mazurki, Pat McKee [Pirates], Kay Morley, Lillian Molieri, Ruth Caldwell, Loretta Daye, Betty Thurston, Betty Alexander [Goldwyn Girls]

Musical Program: [0:00] Main Title (played by Orchestra behind titles); [0:44] Kiss Me in the Moonlight (sung by Virginia Mayo)

Private Buckaroo
Universal, 1942, B/W, 65 minutes, ***
Premiere release May, 1942
General release June, 1942

Vintage WWII musical with The Andrews Sisters and Harry James and his Orchestra jumpin' and jivin' through basic training. Mostly a music revue with a shoestring plot to hold it together, but it's fun. With Joe E. Lewis. Lots of great music!

Associate Producer: Ken Goldsmith
Directed by: Edward F. Cline
Screen Play: Edmond Kelso, Edward James
Original Story: Paul Gerard Smith
Musical Director: Harry James
Orchestration: Vic Schoen, Jack Matthias
Dances Staged by: John Mattison
Art Director: Jack Otterson
Associate: Robert Boyle
Set Decorations: R. A. Gausman
Gowns: Vera West
Sound Director: Bernard B. Brown
Technician: Paul Neal
Director of Photography: Woody Bredell
Film Editor: Milton Carruth

Cast: The Andrews Sisters [Maxene, Patty, LaVerne], Dick Foran [Lon Prentice], Joe E. Lewis [Lancelot Pringle McBiff], Jennifer Holt [Joyce Mason], Shemp Howard [Sergeant "Muggsy" Shavel], Richard Davies [Lieutenant Mason], Mary Wickes [Bonnie-Belle Schlopkiss], Ernest Truex [Colonel Weatherford], Donald O'Connor [Donny], Peggy Ryan [Peggy], Huntz Hall [Corporal Anemic], Susan Levine [Tagalong], The Jivin' Jacks and Jills [Themselves], Harry James and His Music Makers [Themselves], Helen Forrest [Herself]

Musical Program: [0:00] You Made Me Love You (sung by Helen Forrest with Harry James and His Music Makers); [0:05] Private Buckaroo (sung by Dick Foran with Harry James and His Music Makers); [0:12] unidentified instrumental (played by Harry James and His Music Makers); [0:14] I Love the South (sung by Joe E. Lewis with Harry James and His Music Makers); [0:19] Three Little Sisters (sung by the Andrews Sisters with Harry James and His Music Makers); [0:24] Ma, I Miss Your Apple Pie (sung by Dick Foran and Chorus [as enlistees] with Harry James and His Music Makers); [0:29] Six Jerks in a Jeep (sung by the Andrews Sisters); [0:35] That's the Moon My Son (sung by the Andrews Sisters with Harry James and His Music Makers); [0:40] Nobody Knows de Trouble I've Seen (sung by Dick Foran, Helen Forrest and Chorus with Harry James and His Music Makers); [0:52] unidentified instrumental (played by Harry James and His Music Makers); [0:55] Don't Sit under the Apple Tree (With Anyone Else But Me) (sung by the Andrews Sisters with Harry James and His Music Makers; danced by Donald O'Connor, Peggy Ryan and Kids); [1:02] We've Got a Job to Do (sung by Dick Foran and Mens Chorus); [1:04] Johnny Get Your Gun Again (sung by the Andrews Sisters with Harry James and His Music Makers); [1:07] We've Got a Job to Do (reprised by the Andrews Sisters)

Puss in Boots
(aka Cannon Movie Tales: Puss in Boots)
Golan-Globus / Cannon, 1988, Color, 96 minutes, ***

See list of all Cannon Movie Tales

Oscar-winner Christopher Walken (The Deer Hunter) is the fabled feline hero "Puss in Boots", in this high stepping, musical retelling of Charles Perrault's classic tale. Transformed into a man by a magical pair of boots, Puss the cat (Christopher Walken) has a purr-fect scheme to wed his humble master to the king's beautiful young daughter. But when the king demands to see his new son-in-law's non-existent riches, the clever cat must use all his wiles to ensure that everyone lives happily ever after!

Produced by: Menahem Golan and Yoram Globus
Executive Producer: Itzik Kol
Directed by: Eugene Marner
Screenplay by: Carole Lucia Satrina
Based on the classic fairy tale by Charles Perrault
Original Score: Rafi Kadishson
Songs: Music by Michael Abbott, Lyrics by Anne Croswell
Music Supervisor: Stephen Lawrence
Orchestration: Rafi Kadishson
Production Designer: Marek Dobrowolski
Art Director: Ariel Roshko
Choreographer: Christine Oren
Costume Designer: Ora Strikovsky
Make-up Artist and Wig Design: Charles Biderman
Director of Photography: Avi Karpik
Special Effects: Nani Rozenstein
Editors: Carole Lucia Satrina, Eugene Marner

Cast: Christopher Walken [Puss], Jason Connery [Corin], Carmela Marner [Princess Vera], Yossi Graber [King], Elki Jacobs [Lady Clara], Amnon Meskin [The Ogre], Yaakov Ben Sira [Prime Minister], Michael Schneider [Tailor], Yehoyachin Friedlander [Poacher], Itzik Abel, Roni Pinkovitch, Yuval Seker, Jonathan Arkin, Simon Rosenfeld, Victor Ken [Footmen], Jerry Hyman [Treasurer], Louise Colbert [Treasurer's Wife], Amalia Lazarovitch [Prime Minister's Wife], Patrice Julian Morieres [Lord of the Garter], Maxine Ray [Lady of the Garter], John Phillips [Lord of the Chamber], Rina Ron [Lady of the Chamber], Shmuel Tene [Captain], Bruno Liuguir [Corporal], Itzhak Ne'eman [Sergeant], Avi Gilor [Private], Avinoam Mor Haim [Miller], Lior Nahman [John], Yehonadav Perlman [Peter], Yehuda Fox [Villager], Doron Solomon [Shepherd], Finn Pladsbjerg [Woodcutter]

Musical Program: [0:00] Prologue (sung by Chorus [Peasants]); [0:11] Happy Cat (sung and danced by Christopher Walken and Nick Curtis dubbing for Jason Connery); [0:22] Cat's Lullaby (I'll Watch Over You) (sung by Christopher Walken); [0:25] Gift for the King (sung by Chorus [King's Court]); [0:40] Love at First Sight (sung by Carmela Marner and Nick Curtis dubbing for Jason Connery); [0:46] To Be Genteel (sung by Elki Jacobs, Carmela Marner, Christopher Walken and Nick Curtis dubbing for Jason Connery); [1:04] Love at First Sight (reprised by Carmela Marner and Nick Curtis dubbing for Jason Connery); [1:12] Stick Your Neck out Now and Then (sung by Carmela Marner, Christopher Walken and Nick Curtis dubbing for Jason Connery); [1:31] Happy Cat (reprised by Christopher Walken); [1:31] Finale (sung by Christopher Walken, Carmela Marner, Elki Jacobs, Nick Curtis and Chorus); [1:33] Happy Cat (reprised by Christopher Walken behind end credits)