Amazon.com

Wings, the first movie to win an Academy Award for Best Picture and the only silent film to win, is still remarkably enjoyable to watch. The story is a fairly conventional one--two flyboys, both in love with the same girl, go off to fight World War I, and male bonding and heartbreak ensue. It's a perfectly serviceable plot, except for the key logical flaw that both young men have inexplicably fallen in love with the boring girl down the street and have somehow failed to notice that Clara Bow is the girl next door. Both male leads really flew their airplanes, and the dogfight footage is still spectacular. The main reason to watch Wings, though, is to see the difference between an actor and a movie star. There are many actors in the film, but only two movie stars. Clara Bow is a treat to watch every minute she's on screen, and young Gary Cooper in a tiny role nearly walks away with the movie, mostly by standing there and looking dreamy. It's well worth sitting through a little cheesy organ music for a movie this much fun. --Ali Davis ... Read more

Reviews (21)

Weak Plot, Awesome Fighting Scenes!
Although silent goddess Clara Bow headlines the cast, I was surprised how limited her role in this movie was. The plot she is tied to is very weak and I don't think the conclusion helps it too much (Clara's character leaving the war and her love interest changing his affections so effortlessly once he returned home). Her sexy image is really toned down as well. One scene has her luring her drunken boyfriend (a very funny drunken boyfriend) from a Paris night club in a skimpy number. The dress didn't fit the character's girl-next-door image at all.

The real storyline is between pals Jack Powell and David Armstrong (played expertly by Buddy Rogers and Richard Arlen). Anyone interested in the First World War will find this film a real treat! The training scenes I found particularly interesting. Then there are the many aerial fighting scenes. They are so well done they look like documentary footage. Scenes shot from the pilot's point of view put the viewer right into the action! Scenes like these make the "two guys in love with the same girl" plot seem so insignificant.

You also get two brief but excellent performances by a very young Gary Cooper and an aged Henry B. Walthall from Birth of A Nation fame. Although only 49 in this film, Walthall does an amazing job portraying a crippled old man grieving the departure of his son.

An Oscar First
"Wings" is one of the best silent films ever made. It deservingly became the first movie to win the Oscar for Best Picture (1927-1928). It stars Clara Bow, Charles Rogers, and more, including a cameo appearance by then-unknown Gary Cooper. This film was ahead of its time with its visual effects, cinematograghy, and plot. Few other films at the time successfully made such elaborate scenes realistic looking. They obviously made great use with the technology that they had then. Few films were able to take a chain of events and spread them out to keep the audience's interest for over two hours. This plot is brilliant! It explores two friends who travel to Germany to fight WWI. Little do they know is that they left the same girl behind in the US. The drama and the war theme combine beautifully, keeping the emotion intact. The lucky charms add an added interesting touch. The acting is wonderful. Clara Bow, the 1920's "It"-girl(and the Marilyn Monroe of the 1920's), beautifully and emotionally plays her role as a woman left behind by her "friend" fighting in the war who struggles to get him to realize that she's in love with him. The men who play the soldier friends add their own harsh was realisms into the film. Such performance the movie its added enjoyment. "Wings" is a great movie for those looking for war sequences. Even those not interested in silent movies will enjoy this. Those who watch it will easily figure out why this movie is a classic.

Great Movie-Shame You Can't Own it
Apparently it is out of print in VHS and unavailiable in DVD. Inexcusable. Paramount needs to get with the program. Wings is extremely important as film history and is also a great movie on its own. One of the last great silents. The aerial acrobatics are worth watching just in themselves. The story isn't the stuff of genius. Basic love triangle stuff. The genius is in how the story is told, the perfect acting and the several fascinating scenes throughout the movie. I really can't recommend renting or buying a used vhs copy of Wings highly enough.

A bit above average, I guess.
Well, here is exactly the type of silent film that most people do not watch nowadays; it's neither a comedy like the Charlie Chaplin movies, nor a horror film like Nosferatu. This, instead, is a typical American action/drama flick, with ample quantities of both.

It certainly suffers at times for being a silent film; dialogues have to be displayed on the screen, and this happens quite often because the story here is sometimes quite complex. Not only do the characters talk a lot, but the story also often requires some explaining, and some of the explanations can be quite long.

The action sequences are not as "big" as in they would be in movies today, but they are a lot more impressive in their own way. I was just amazed at how they could have shot some of those sequences; I got the impression that the person who was shooting was probably in quite a lot of danger, because I knew that they could not have used special effects in 1927; what I was seeing was the real thing. It was quite exhilirating to see those old, unsafe, WW1 planes in the air. I do not think that any director today would be crazy enough to duplicate something like this with real planes, so this is probably the only chance anyone has to see these planes in action, and feel like you're right in the thick of a dogfight.

That having been said, the film does stretch out for a bit too long sometimes. It never really gets boring, but it never really gets particularly interesting for most of the movie either. Most of the time, it's just entertaining enough to keep you watching it.

The reason I gave it a "4" is because the ending, when it comes, is quite good (don't let anybody spoil it for you; watch for yourself), and also because of the action sequences. The film is also quite funny in a few spots, notably in any scene with the patriotic Dutch aviator (I wish we had seen more of him), and in the Paris "drunken man" scene.

Overall, not a bad movie, and one that I know others may like more than me; so go ahead and see it (don't forget, though; it's 131 minutes)!

Luminescent Wings
This exceptional film is indeed long overdue for its DVD release. (Paramount Home Video, get on the ball!)

Like Eric Player, I saw this film many years ago, and it too is one of those rare flicks that remains imprinted on one's memory.

I don't know if any of my fellow reviewers have seen this film as it was meant to be seen -- in a pristine restored print, shown on an actual movie screen with live organ accompaniement.

And Not on VHS tape (yuchh)!!!

I live in the Washington DC area, which also happens to have, outside of Hollywood, two centers of film preservation and restoration: the Library of Congress Motion Picture archives, and the American Film Institute.

Some 15 - 20 years ago, I attended a screening through the AFI, as part of its great classics film festival, and was blown away by this presentation.

The quality of the restored print was so startingly crisp that it looked as if it was shot the day before.

No need to expound further upon the performances, nor the plot, save to say that Wings just about has everything that makes a special film great.

Incidentally, the always handsome Charles Buddy Rogers had a special regard for this film, and often in his later years, accompanied Wings when it was shown at festivals and college film classes.

Rogers lived into his early nineties -- the last surviving star of the film -- and died just around 5 years ago! ... Read more

Description

Of historical importance as the first talking picture, it's the story of a Cantor who would like his son to follow in his footsteps. But Jolson feels otherwise: he wants to be a jazz singer!A very early performance of Myrna Loy, with the classic line: "You ain't seen nothing yet!" Main songs: "Toot, Toot, Tootsie Goodbye", "My Mammy", "Blue Skies", "My Gal Sal", and others. ... Read more

Reviews (16)

It's Not "Just Entertainment": Still Food for Thought
It's simple to look at _The Jazz Singer_, released in 1927, and think that it's corny and quaint, interesting only for the historical fact of its being the first film to use synchronous sound--and to use it only slightly, at that. But the film still raises compelling and interesting questions about the pull for minorities towards assimilation. The film is shameless in its condemning of the father, the Cantor, whose gallant--if often heavy-handed--attempt to preserve religious tradition is overtly ridiculed as outdated and "old world" by the text of the film. Indeed, the film reflects a time in the United States when it wasn't appropriate to be proud to be yourself, to be of a minority faith--as if to suggest that to be truly American, one had to be Christian as well. (Even the Al Jolson character's love interest is unfeeling and cold when he struggles with his consience during the most holy days of the Jewish faith; she refers to him as "a Jazz Singer. . .singing to _his_ God," as if it were some God alien to herself and others.) This film still raises important issues about difference and society's general acceptance of difference. If anything, one's view of the Cantor is far more sympathetic now than it would have been then.

Of Historical Interest Only
Rather than follow in his father's footsteps, a Jewish cantor's son runs away from home to become a jazz singer; many years later he returns to New York to star in a Broadway show and attempts a reconcilliation with his implacable father. Even 1927 audiences thought it was pretty silly--but no one ever went to see THE JAZZ SINGER because it was a great film. They went to see it because you could hear the actors talk.

Not that they do much talking. Al Jolson performs several of his popular numbers and there are occasional snatches of speech and dialogue, but for all pratical purposes THE JAZZ SINGER is a silent film. The cast, which includes Warner Oland (better known for his later appearances as Charlie Chan) plays very broadly, and the result is mildly entertaining. But the interest here is largely historical. Film historians, students, and buffs will be eager to see it--and rightly so--but I do not recommend it for the casual viewer.

Highly moving film
What lady watching could keep a dry eye at the end when Jack Robin sings Mammy with his own mother proudly watching in the audience? Absolutely moving. The film was not the first part talkie to come outa Hollywood but it was the most successful. And the story rather closely parallels Jolson's real life family story. He was the son of a cantor, the two were originally from Lithuania and Jolson ran away from his dad when he was just a boy.

Interesting but uneven
"The Jazz Singer" will forever be remembered as being the first Hollywood movie to make the transition from the silent era. However, if not for its label as the first talking picture, "The Jazz Singer" would have been long forgotten and would not have earned a place in the AFI's top 100 movies list.

The first 20 minutes or so of "The Jazz Singer" has 'classic status' written all over it. It is very good and if the remainder of the movie continued the same way, the film would merit at least 4 1/2 stars. However, the film soon dips down and never quite regains itself. It loses its direction, the dialogue continually becomes more amateurish and at times it's an effort to watch.

The story is of Jakie Rabinowitz, a young Jewish man who wants to break away from following his family's traditions and pursue a career as an entertainer, much to the disapproval of his father. Many will find the story to be cliched and over used. However, given the films age, this aspect can be overlooked. But either way, the film ultimately doesn't stand the test of time and must be watched from a historical viewpoint. Talking pictures had just started and this was uncharted territory. Some of the actors seem uncomfortable with the transition and it shows sometimes on screen.

That being said, "The Jazz Singer" is something that is only sought after by critics and movie buffs. It's worth a look but the average moviegoer will find it an ordeal to watch.

There are many reasons to love Jolson's "The Jazz Singer"
This is an extraordinary film.

First, it is a great story of the dilemma faced by a son between following a path set by his family and culture, in contrast with pursuing his own career ambitions.

This is a story with great relevance today.

Second, it is the first "talking picture." As a piece of cinema history, it is a missing link between silent and talking pictures.

The Jazz Singer is conceived and photographed as a silent picture, and follows all silent picture conventions, but has several synchronized sound segments - with performances by the great Al Jolson - worked in.

The most memorable to me is the scene with Jolson talking to his mother, with Jolson sitting at the piano.

Third, Al Jolson was the most popular superstar of his day; he is compared in popularity to Michael Jackson, Elvis, and Bing Crosby combined at their peaks. In a world before radio, television, and sound pictures, the Winter Garden Theater on Broadway in NYC was built for Jolson and he filled it for years.

Finally, "The Jazz Singer" is an historical document looking at New York in the 1920's. That world is long long gone. The sets, the costumes, the types of the actors, all reflect a rich and interesting world that no longer exists.

Don't look at "The Jazz Singer" as some historical oddity or museum piece. As a piece of entertainment, culture and history, it is very powerful and riveting.

As far as I am concerned, it is highly recommended. ... Read more

Reviews (61)

CLARK + CLAUDETTE = FUN~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~*
What a great film ! The chemistry and dialogue that exists between Claudette Colbert and Clark Gable is amazingly BRILLIANT and FUNNY! This is the type of black and white film that can be watched forever and ever and never seem "dated" and out of touch w/recent times: after all, its been almost 7O years since this movie was made and it still ranks up there w/ some of the best comedies of today! I wasn't even born when the movie was made but I enjoyed it so much, I wanted to watch it again and again! If that doesn't convince you, this video won 5 Oscars: Best Actor (GABLE), Best Actress (COLBERT), Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Screenplay!!

Here's a little summary for those who don't know what its about. Claudette Colbert plays Ellie Andrews, a rich, spoiled heiress running away from her family. During the trip, on a bus, she meets street-smart reporter Peter Warne, played by the handsome Clark Gable. Ellie is definitely NOT street-smart, and she's having a few problems, so Peter agrees to help her out and travel w/ her in exchange for an exclusive story. They go through many adventures together, despising each other along the way, until they find that they are reluctantly falling in love and afraid to admit it to each other...besides its a little bit more complicated since she's a married woman. AN EXCELLENT FILM, WITH A PERFECT ENDING-ONE OF GABLE'S BEST!! I GIVE IT A PERFECT 5 STARS!! AAA+++++

Simply The Best
I don't claim be a movie expert, but this is the best film I have ever seen. I already owned a VHS copy, but on buying a DVD player I paid good money to have this disc shipped to me in England - and boy was it worth it! The picture quality is as good as you will find anywhere and the sound is superb too. The DVD is also jam-packed with extra features. The film's commentary is provided by Frank Capra Jr. He has a wonderfully relaxed style and doesn't just sound as if he's reading from a prepared script. Along with Ron Howard's commentary for Apollo 13, this is the best DVD commentary I have heard to date. A special feature unique amongst DVDs must be the radio version of 'It Happened One Night', first broadcast in 1939, again starring Claudette Colbert and Clark Gable. Whoever had the idea of including this on the DVD deserves a salary rise. The disc also includes trailers, cast lists, some beautifully illustrated posters and also a Frank Capra Jr introduction. This really is an extremely impressive package of Frank Capra's masterpiece.

"Excuse me lady, but that upon which you sit is mine."
Peter Warne: Why didn't you take off all your clothes? You could have stopped forty cars.
Ellie Andrews: Well, ooo, I'll remember that when we need forty cars.

On-screen chemistry has the ability to turn a good film into something special. Look no further than Frank Capra's "It Happened One Night" for proof of this. Whoever came up with the idea of pairing Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert together in this production certainly earned his or her paycheck.

Rich girl Ellie Andrews (Colbert) runs away from her father so that she can be with her one true love, King Westley (Jameson Thomas). Ellie has little knowledge of how the outside world works so she hooks up with reporter Peter Warne (Gable) who offers to help her reach New York in return for the exclusive rights to her story. The pair finds each other intolerable at the outset but as they spend more time together, their opinions of each other start to change. By the time they arrive in New York, Ellie and Peter must decide if they should act upon the newfound affection they have developed towards one another.

"It Happened One Night" is effectively funny and romantic at the same time. The out-of-the-way situations Ellie and Peter find themselves involved in is screwball comedy at its finest and the love that develops between them is Hollywood magic at its most charming. Colbert and Gable show why they were two of the biggest stars of their era and the chemistry they display on screen still is magnetic to this very day. "It Happened One Night" is also a fascinating cultural text due to its suggestive sexual overtones and its vivid depiction of a woman who is determined to take matters into her own hands when the situation calls for it. Both of these aspects are especially noteworthy when one considers the period in which the film was made. Yet, if "It Happened One Night" is to be remembered for anything, it should be remembered for the classic that it is. After all, when you speak of pure cinematic bliss, you speak of scenes like the one where Ellie flashes her thigh to stop an approaching car - truly one of the greatest moments ever caught on film.

It doesn't get any better than this ...
70 years later, this movie still holds up beautifully. It's funny, smart, and, man! those sexy, charming leads! I'd ride a bus with Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert anywhere ...

This ones recommended for everyone -- old people, young people ... It hasn't aged, and it'll always be a good time.

A classic that deserves to endure
A spoiled socialite (Claudette Colbert) flees her wealthy father (Walter Connolly) and heads for New York to marry a rich playboy (Jameson Thomas) against her father's will. The whereabouts of Ellie Andrews and the reward for her return become the stuff of national headlines, so when recently fired reporter Peter Warne (Clark Gable) recognizes her, he decides to stick close so he can write the story. Naturally, romance follows, but it's a bumpy and hugely entertaining road to get there.

This is an absolutely wonderful film. It's such a shame that so many people are not interested in watching an old black-and-white movie. Good work is timeless. Gable and Colbert have wonderful chemistry and are both hilarious and touching. The rest of the cast is excellent as well. Even though the story is set during the Great Depression, it doesn't seem dated at all. The wisecracking between characters is sharp and well-written (by screenwriter Robert Riskin); there are lots of laugh-out-loud moments during this film. It's also pretty racy and suggestive for its time, with a genuinely affecting climax. Another level of interest is added by the careful attention that director Frank Capra pays to the depression-era milieu; Colbert's character really doesn't understand the plight of the common man, but Gable's hard-bitten reporter is all too aware of the hard times that people are going through. This adds a fascinating sociological dimension. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

A Funny Movie
This is one of the best comedys I have seen. It is a favorite.

One of Prentiss' shining moments
Paula Prentiss was a talented actress who didn't make it as far as she should of. Even in supporting roles such as "Where the Boys Are" and "The Stepford Wives", Prentiss was able to stand out and make you ask who is that girl. Her charisma isn't easy able to label which maybe was one of Hollywood's reasons.
Rock Hudson and her don't have romantic chemistry in this movie. (They looked awkward kissing.) But their energy makes one ignore this. Hudson was good in this amusing movie as well. Hudson makes his living off fishing books but when he is entered into a fishing tournament, the truth about his phoniness comes out. He's not only never fished but much,much more. Prentiss is his fishing instructor who brings even more trouble into his life.
The only real complaint is the 121 minutes. 30 minutes could have been edited.

Prentiss is a Delightful Revelation!
Hawks "cannibalizes" (his own term) several of the routines from his earlier "Bringing Up Baby" in this amusing comedy. Hudson, while lacking the light touch of Cary Grant, gives an entirely serviceable performance. The true wonder of the film is Paula Prentiss, who brings a daffy, natural charm to the Katherine Hepburn role. The film is also bouyed by the comic performances of veterans like John McGiver, Roscoe Karns and Norman Alden (hilarious as Chief John Screaming Eagle).

Funny, nice scenary, not a dull moment in the movie,
The movie is a civilized commedy with no overacting. All the funny situations are natural and as such believable. The outdoor scenary is marvellous. There is a kind of nostalgia about the making of the movie in a resort lake area. Watching this movie, takes one back to the simple innocent times when good laughter was appreciated without the fake computer-generated special effects. Great movie to watch with the family. Excellent photography.

Freshness, fun, and fish
One of Howard Hawks' wonderful slapstick feel-good comedies, "Man's Favorite Sport?" is a great show that can be enjoyed by everyone... especially "expert" fishermen.

Rock Hudson is Roger Willoughby, a renowned fishing expert, who, unbeknownst to his friends, co-workers, or boss, has never cast a line in his life. One day, he crosses paths with Abigail Paige (Paula Prentiss), a sweetly annoying girl who has just badgered his boss into signing Roger up for an annual fishing tournament. Panicked, Hudson confesses his, uh, inadequate experience to the ever-resourceful Abigail. Abby decides to take Roger up to Lake Waccapugi where the tournament will take place and get him broken in. Along the way, Roger learns other things: how to start a motor boat without falling into a lake, how to hold a fish without cringing, and how to discover the girl of his life... with her driving him absolutely crazy!

An excellent supporting cast, a brilliant screenplay, and marvelous cinematography make "Man's Favorite Sport?" a great laugh-out-loud comedy for the whole family. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

A Pleasant Surprise
FOOTSTEPS IN THE DARK is a movie about an investment banker who writes mystery novels as a sideline. While doing research for his books he becomes involved with real crime as an amateur sleuth.

Errol Flynn plays the light-hearted detective. Brenda Marshall is his loving wife and the rest of the cast includes Ralph Bellamy, William Frawley, Lee Patrick and Grant Mitchell.

FOOTSTEPS IN THE DARK is a pleasant surprise for a low budget movie. The director is Lloyd Bacon who directed MOBY DICK starring John Barrymore in 1930. He also directed the musical 42ND STREET with the assistance of Busby Berkeley in 1933.

Errol In A Suit
Errol Flynn stars as a successful business man with a secret. Although the world thinks he's just an investment counselor, he is also a controversial best selling writer of mysteries using a pen name. His interest in mysteries as he tries to solve a jewel robbery/murder case threatens to expose his double life. It's kind of odd to see Flynn in suits and modern clothing after years of watching him in period action pieces. He does an acceptable job in the role, although the Texan accent he assumes in some scenes is really poor. But the script never allows him or the rest of the cast to develop their characters - they're cut-outs going through the motions. Flynn has little chemistry with Brenda Marshall as his wife, and Lee Patrick is badly miscast as a burlesque queen. Even reliable Allen Jenkins, one of my favourite character actors, hardly makes an impression. The film tries to be a comedy mystery, but the comedy is barely evident and the mystery hardly engrossing. The set up of the film holds lots of promise. But neither the director or the writers deliver on that promise.

So-so screwball mystery flick
An awkward parody of the "Thin Man" movies, with Errol Flynn trying out screwball comedy for a change... The set-up is that Flynn is a rich playboy who, unbeknownst to family and friends, moonlights as a writer of detective fiction. This, of course, necessitates his staying out late to do research into crime, and telling all kinds of lame fibs to his wife and shrewish mother-in-law, in order to cover his tracks. Misunderstandings and wackiness ensue. William Frawley plays the dumb cop Flynn loves to torment; Ralph Bellamy and other great character actors pop up as well. Mysteriously, the actress playing "the other woman" is completely unattractive: couldn't they have gotten a real starlet for the part? Guess not. Anyway, this is a pretty weak film, and doesn't really even work as a curio.

Flynn with a Texas drawl!
Forgotten and forgettable comedy swashbuckler Errol Flynn attempted to extend his range in at the height of his stardom--and which would eventually prove harmful to his career when he was cast in similarly mediocre vehicles once his star faded. In this improbable and inane vehicle the dashing and devastatingly handsome Flynn stars as Francis Warren III, an extremely wealthy and happily married investment counsel who secretly writes mystery novels under a pen name. He gets embroiled in a real-life murder mystery when a mysterious gem merchant shows up at his office one day and later turns up dead. To the authorities it looks like natural causes brought on by alcohol consumption, but Francis thinks not and decides to do some investigating of his own. Along the way he meets up with the dead man's mistress, a blond burlesque queen named, appropriately enough, Blondie White (Lee Patrick, terribly miscast since she looks about 15 years too old and not good-looking enough for the role), and Dr. Davis, a mad-under-the-surface dentist (Ralph Bellamy in an effective departure from his usual folksy nice-guy roles). Brenda Marshall plays Francis' wife Rita, who soon becomes jealous and bewildered at his suspicious behavior, which includes, among other things, sneaking in their bedroom window with a ladder during the wee hours and making up wild stories to cover up his double life as writer/investigator. The only saving grace in this movie is Marshall's ravishing brunette beauty and Flynn's pleasant and adept comic flair, which almost but not quite makes up for this lukewarm comedy with forced gags and weak situations and, believe it or not, Flynn's ridiculous intonation of a Texas accent--even in his Westerns he talked in his normal British-y voice (even though he's an Aussie), and though it might have seemed inappropriate, it's a good thing he did since the drawl he displays in thsi film woulda turned his Westerns into comedies and had 'em rolling in the aisles! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Generally considered the first sound feature, this 1927 film is pretty much silent except for a few lines of dialogue and Al Jolson's songs. The story finds Jolson playing the son of a cantor who wants him to follow in his footsteps, but the singer prefers secular music. Except for its historical value, the film isn't all that interesting, though it is great to get a sense of why people considered Jolson to be a hugely exciting entertainer at the time. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (16)

It's Not "Just Entertainment": Still Food for Thought
It's simple to look at _The Jazz Singer_, released in 1927, and think that it's corny and quaint, interesting only for the historical fact of its being the first film to use synchronous sound--and to use it only slightly, at that. But the film still raises compelling and interesting questions about the pull for minorities towards assimilation. The film is shameless in its condemning of the father, the Cantor, whose gallant--if often heavy-handed--attempt to preserve religious tradition is overtly ridiculed as outdated and "old world" by the text of the film. Indeed, the film reflects a time in the United States when it wasn't appropriate to be proud to be yourself, to be of a minority faith--as if to suggest that to be truly American, one had to be Christian as well. (Even the Al Jolson character's love interest is unfeeling and cold when he struggles with his consience during the most holy days of the Jewish faith; she refers to him as "a Jazz Singer. . .singing to _his_ God," as if it were some God alien to herself and others.) This film still raises important issues about difference and society's general acceptance of difference. If anything, one's view of the Cantor is far more sympathetic now than it would have been then.

Of Historical Interest Only
Rather than follow in his father's footsteps, a Jewish cantor's son runs away from home to become a jazz singer; many years later he returns to New York to star in a Broadway show and attempts a reconcilliation with his implacable father. Even 1927 audiences thought it was pretty silly--but no one ever went to see THE JAZZ SINGER because it was a great film. They went to see it because you could hear the actors talk.

Not that they do much talking. Al Jolson performs several of his popular numbers and there are occasional snatches of speech and dialogue, but for all pratical purposes THE JAZZ SINGER is a silent film. The cast, which includes Warner Oland (better known for his later appearances as Charlie Chan) plays very broadly, and the result is mildly entertaining. But the interest here is largely historical. Film historians, students, and buffs will be eager to see it--and rightly so--but I do not recommend it for the casual viewer.

Highly moving film
What lady watching could keep a dry eye at the end when Jack Robin sings Mammy with his own mother proudly watching in the audience? Absolutely moving. The film was not the first part talkie to come outa Hollywood but it was the most successful. And the story rather closely parallels Jolson's real life family story. He was the son of a cantor, the two were originally from Lithuania and Jolson ran away from his dad when he was just a boy.

Interesting but uneven
"The Jazz Singer" will forever be remembered as being the first Hollywood movie to make the transition from the silent era. However, if not for its label as the first talking picture, "The Jazz Singer" would have been long forgotten and would not have earned a place in the AFI's top 100 movies list.

The first 20 minutes or so of "The Jazz Singer" has 'classic status' written all over it. It is very good and if the remainder of the movie continued the same way, the film would merit at least 4 1/2 stars. However, the film soon dips down and never quite regains itself. It loses its direction, the dialogue continually becomes more amateurish and at times it's an effort to watch.

The story is of Jakie Rabinowitz, a young Jewish man who wants to break away from following his family's traditions and pursue a career as an entertainer, much to the disapproval of his father. Many will find the story to be cliched and over used. However, given the films age, this aspect can be overlooked. But either way, the film ultimately doesn't stand the test of time and must be watched from a historical viewpoint. Talking pictures had just started and this was uncharted territory. Some of the actors seem uncomfortable with the transition and it shows sometimes on screen.

That being said, "The Jazz Singer" is something that is only sought after by critics and movie buffs. It's worth a look but the average moviegoer will find it an ordeal to watch.

There are many reasons to love Jolson's "The Jazz Singer"
This is an extraordinary film.

First, it is a great story of the dilemma faced by a son between following a path set by his family and culture, in contrast with pursuing his own career ambitions.

This is a story with great relevance today.

Second, it is the first "talking picture." As a piece of cinema history, it is a missing link between silent and talking pictures.

The Jazz Singer is conceived and photographed as a silent picture, and follows all silent picture conventions, but has several synchronized sound segments - with performances by the great Al Jolson - worked in.

The most memorable to me is the scene with Jolson talking to his mother, with Jolson sitting at the piano.

Third, Al Jolson was the most popular superstar of his day; he is compared in popularity to Michael Jackson, Elvis, and Bing Crosby combined at their peaks. In a world before radio, television, and sound pictures, the Winter Garden Theater on Broadway in NYC was built for Jolson and he filled it for years.

Finally, "The Jazz Singer" is an historical document looking at New York in the 1920's. That world is long long gone. The sets, the costumes, the types of the actors, all reflect a rich and interesting world that no longer exists.

Don't look at "The Jazz Singer" as some historical oddity or museum piece. As a piece of entertainment, culture and history, it is very powerful and riveting.

As far as I am concerned, it is highly recommended. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

The Front Page, Ben Hecht and Charles MacArthur's classic 1928 newspaper play, has had three official film versions and contributed structural DNA to half the movies ever made about professional camaraderie and fierce love-hate friendships. Lewis Milestone's 1931 movie is well respected (Billy Wilder's 1974 version isn't), but this is one case where the remake towers brilliantined head and blocked shoulders above the original.

Howard Hawks had the inspired notion of making Hildy Johnson--the ace newsman whom demonic editor Walter Burns is trying to keep from quitting and getting married--a she instead of a he. What's more, she's not only Walter's star reporter but also his ex-wife. When Hildy (Rosalind Russell) comes to tell Walter (Cary Grant) she's leaving the newspaper business, he bamboozles her into carrying out one last assignment--a death-row interview with a little nebbish (John Qualen) convicted of killing a policeman. It sounds like a snap, but before you can say screwball comedy, the press room of the Criminal Courts Building has become ground zero for all the lunacy a jailbreak, a shooting, an impromptu suicide, a corrupt city administration, and the most Machiavellian "hero" in the American cinema can supply.

His Girl Friday is one of the, oh, five greatest dialogue comedies ever made; Hawks had his cast play it at breakneck speed, and audiences hyperventilate trying to finish with one laugh so they can do justice to the four that have accumulated in the meantime. Russell, not Hawks's first choice to play Hildy, is triumphant in the part, holding her own as "one of the guys" and creating an enduring feminist icon. Grant is a force of nature, giving a performance of such concentrated frenzy and diamond brilliance that you owe it to yourself to devote at least one viewing of the movie to watching him alone. But then you have to go back (lucky you) and watch it again for the sake of the press-room gang--Roscoe Karns, Porter Hall, Cliff Edwards, Regis Toomey, Frank Jenks, and others--the kind of ensemble work that gets character actors onto Parnassus. --Richard T. Jameson ... Read more

Reviews (76)

Witty and entertaining
(Please note that the DVD version I am reviewing is the Laserlight release that features an additional documentary on the life of Cary Grant as well as an introduction by an even-more-confused-than-usual Tony Curtis.)

With Laserlight you can never predict from the outside case exactly what the quality of the film itself is going to be in. I've watched good quality prints from them in the past, but I've also seen some truly awful releases that aren't worth the plastic that they're pressed on. Fortunately, their version of HIS GIRL FRIDAY is quite excellent, with a crisp picture and a clear soundtrack. Their budget releases are usually worth the risk, and in this case, you end up with a great movie that's quite well preserved and all for a fairly low price.

The movie itself is simply fantastic. The dialogue comes flying at you so fast that'll be afraid to laugh for fear of speaking over the next line. The story itself is also intensely funny, and deceptively dark. What begins as a seemingly light romantic comedy slowly becomes more and more twisted until the final scene, where the reinstatement of the romance subplot reminds us of how far we've come. It's a testament to the skills of the director, Howard Hawks, that the result is not only coherent, but also highly enjoyable. The story flows effortlessly from moment to moment, with each scene being slightly more frantic than the last, yet still together enough to be extremely entertaining.

The acting from the two main leads is also a delight. In the past I had thought of Cary Grant as always playing the same sort of character in every film. Although, you'll see some similarity to other roles that he played, he's incredibly amusing in this film and playing a far more manipulative character than I'd seen him perform. It's a nice change to see the usually easily befuddled Cary Grant actually running rings around the rest of the cast.

As for the DVD extras, they don't distract from the feature, but they won't be the deciding factor in whether you purchase this DVD or not. The included documentary, CARY GRANT ON FILM: A BIOGRAPHY runs about 28 minutes long and consists mainly of random trailers that span Grant's entire film career. It's fairly interesting, although not terribly riveting. The introductory remarks by Tony Curtis are as bizarrely entertaining as always. The film contains Spanish, Japanese and Chinese subtitles, but does not include an option for English, which is a slightly annoying oversight.

In the end, it's not the extras that you should be buying this disc for; it's the wonderful film that's packaged with them. Kick back, relax, and watch the dialog fly across the screen. You'll want to keep the remote control handy so that you can rewind to catch all the great moments that you missed while laughing over them.

which version to buy? There's only one!
OK, we all know that 'His Girl Friday' (aka 'The Front Page') is a terrific movie which belongs in every DVD collection. But there are some really bad, almost unviewable versions out there. Fortunately, I chose the right version, and it's a clean crisp image, tightly-focused sound -- a joy throughout. So if you want 'His Girl Friday', make sure you get the Laserlight DVD version, complete with a Cary Grant biog documentary and an unvelievably hokey intro from Tony Curtis on a bad day. I got the Laserlight disc from Amazon for around $7 -- the really bad dubs other reviewers have complained about from other companies cost more! I've found Laserlight transfers of old films are generally ok -- their cheapie Hitchcock transfers of 'The Lady Vanishes' and 'The 39 Steps' are almost as good as as Criterion in image, though pretty scratchy in sound. For a budget label, they do a good job compared to the absolute garbage put out by Madacy and others. So remember -- 'His Girl Friday' has to be from Laserlight or you're wasting your money and buying something totally unviewable. And no, this is NOT a paid ad! Just trying to steer people towards a good edition of a classic comedy. If Laserlight wants to thank me, they could prepare a DVD edition of my favourite of all Billy Wilder comedies, 'The Major and the Minor' with Ginger Rogers and Ray Milland. Love those 1940s comedies!

brilliant film--dreadful DVD
Don't buy this DVD. The sound quality is terrible--a loud hissing noise overshadows the film's trademark fast, witty dialog. $5 seemed a small investment at the time, but I should have saved my money. Surely someday those who own the rights to "His Girl Friday" will release a DVD worthy of this wonderful classic.

Get The Girl
1940's His Girl Friday is a fast-paced comedy from director Howard Hawks that is has brilliant pacing and performances from Cary Grant & Rosalind Russell. The film is based on the play, The Front Page and had been previously made into a film and those versions concern the professional relationship of two men, Walter Burns & Hildy Johnson. In this version they changed the gender of Hildy to a female and the professional tension of the original is replaced by sexual tension. Though it seems tame today, the erotic electricity & innuendo between Mr. Grant & Ms. Russell was quite groundbreaking for the time. The screenplay has been one of the most influential in film history, with Quentin Tarantino citing it as an inspiration for his script's pacing.

VINTAGE SCREWBALL SPARKLES ON DVD FROM COLUMBIA
"His Girl Friday" is Howard Hawk's inspired remake of the award-winning Broadway play and previous movie release of "The Front Page". It's the story of a rapid fire newspaper editor, Walter (Cary Grant) and his star reporter and ex-wife, Hildie Johnston. Hildie has decided to retire to the country with her soon to be new husband (Ralph Belamy). But when a prison break captures the imagination of a troupe of cutthroat reporters, all rabid for the real scoop, Hildie sets aside marital bliss for one last hurrah behind the desk as a cub reporter.
THE TRANSFER: BEWARE OF THIS DVD! There are no less than 12 bootlegged versions of this film being sold through various vendors on DVD. In all but one case the image quality looks as though the entire print had been fed through a meat grinder. The version you want is the one from Columbia Tri-Star Home Video. Its packaging features a disclaimer that reads "mastered from the original camera negative." This version of "His Girl Friday" exhibits - in short - exemplary video quality. The B&W picture has been completely restored. Age related artifacts are nonexistent. The gray scale, black and contrast levels are perfectly realized. Fine detail will astound. There are no digital anomalies. The audio is mono but very nicely cleaned up.
EXTRAS: This version also includes some very nice - if all too brief - featurettes on the careers of stars Rosiland Russell and Cary Grant and the making of the film. There's also the original theatrical trailer.
BOTTOM LINE: This girl is worth seeking out! ... Read more

Reviews (76)

Witty and entertaining
(Please note that the DVD version I am reviewing is the Laserlight release that features an additional documentary on the life of Cary Grant as well as an introduction by an even-more-confused-than-usual Tony Curtis.)

With Laserlight you can never predict from the outside case exactly what the quality of the film itself is going to be in. I've watched good quality prints from them in the past, but I've also seen some truly awful releases that aren't worth the plastic that they're pressed on. Fortunately, their version of HIS GIRL FRIDAY is quite excellent, with a crisp picture and a clear soundtrack. Their budget releases are usually worth the risk, and in this case, you end up with a great movie that's quite well preserved and all for a fairly low price.

The movie itself is simply fantastic. The dialogue comes flying at you so fast that'll be afraid to laugh for fear of speaking over the next line. The story itself is also intensely funny, and deceptively dark. What begins as a seemingly light romantic comedy slowly becomes more and more twisted until the final scene, where the reinstatement of the romance subplot reminds us of how far we've come. It's a testament to the skills of the director, Howard Hawks, that the result is not only coherent, but also highly enjoyable. The story flows effortlessly from moment to moment, with each scene being slightly more frantic than the last, yet still together enough to be extremely entertaining.

The acting from the two main leads is also a delight. In the past I had thought of Cary Grant as always playing the same sort of character in every film. Although, you'll see some similarity to other roles that he played, he's incredibly amusing in this film and playing a far more manipulative character than I'd seen him perform. It's a nice change to see the usually easily befuddled Cary Grant actually running rings around the rest of the cast.

As for the DVD extras, they don't distract from the feature, but they won't be the deciding factor in whether you purchase this DVD or not. The included documentary, CARY GRANT ON FILM: A BIOGRAPHY runs about 28 minutes long and consists mainly of random trailers that span Grant's entire film career. It's fairly interesting, although not terribly riveting. The introductory remarks by Tony Curtis are as bizarrely entertaining as always. The film contains Spanish, Japanese and Chinese subtitles, but does not include an option for English, which is a slightly annoying oversight.

In the end, it's not the extras that you should be buying this disc for; it's the wonderful film that's packaged with them. Kick back, relax, and watch the dialog fly across the screen. You'll want to keep the remote control handy so that you can rewind to catch all the great moments that you missed while laughing over them.

which version to buy? There's only one!
OK, we all know that 'His Girl Friday' (aka 'The Front Page') is a terrific movie which belongs in every DVD collection. But there are some really bad, almost unviewable versions out there. Fortunately, I chose the right version, and it's a clean crisp image, tightly-focused sound -- a joy throughout. So if you want 'His Girl Friday', make sure you get the Laserlight DVD version, complete with a Cary Grant biog documentary and an unvelievably hokey intro from Tony Curtis on a bad day. I got the Laserlight disc from Amazon for around $7 -- the really bad dubs other reviewers have complained about from other companies cost more! I've found Laserlight transfers of old films are generally ok -- their cheapie Hitchcock transfers of 'The Lady Vanishes' and 'The 39 Steps' are almost as good as as Criterion in image, though pretty scratchy in sound. For a budget label, they do a good job compared to the absolute garbage put out by Madacy and others. So remember -- 'His Girl Friday' has to be from Laserlight or you're wasting your money and buying something totally unviewable. And no, this is NOT a paid ad! Just trying to steer people towards a good edition of a classic comedy. If Laserlight wants to thank me, they could prepare a DVD edition of my favourite of all Billy Wilder comedies, 'The Major and the Minor' with Ginger Rogers and Ray Milland. Love those 1940s comedies!

brilliant film--dreadful DVD
Don't buy this DVD. The sound quality is terrible--a loud hissing noise overshadows the film's trademark fast, witty dialog. $5 seemed a small investment at the time, but I should have saved my money. Surely someday those who own the rights to "His Girl Friday" will release a DVD worthy of this wonderful classic.

Get The Girl
1940's His Girl Friday is a fast-paced comedy from director Howard Hawks that is has brilliant pacing and performances from Cary Grant & Rosalind Russell. The film is based on the play, The Front Page and had been previously made into a film and those versions concern the professional relationship of two men, Walter Burns & Hildy Johnson. In this version they changed the gender of Hildy to a female and the professional tension of the original is replaced by sexual tension. Though it seems tame today, the erotic electricity & innuendo between Mr. Grant & Ms. Russell was quite groundbreaking for the time. The screenplay has been one of the most influential in film history, with Quentin Tarantino citing it as an inspiration for his script's pacing.

VINTAGE SCREWBALL SPARKLES ON DVD FROM COLUMBIA
"His Girl Friday" is Howard Hawk's inspired remake of the award-winning Broadway play and previous movie release of "The Front Page". It's the story of a rapid fire newspaper editor, Walter (Cary Grant) and his star reporter and ex-wife, Hildie Johnston. Hildie has decided to retire to the country with her soon to be new husband (Ralph Belamy). But when a prison break captures the imagination of a troupe of cutthroat reporters, all rabid for the real scoop, Hildie sets aside marital bliss for one last hurrah behind the desk as a cub reporter.
THE TRANSFER: BEWARE OF THIS DVD! There are no less than 12 bootlegged versions of this film being sold through various vendors on DVD. In all but one case the image quality looks as though the entire print had been fed through a meat grinder. The version you want is the one from Columbia Tri-Star Home Video. Its packaging features a disclaimer that reads "mastered from the original camera negative." This version of "His Girl Friday" exhibits - in short - exemplary video quality. The B&W picture has been completely restored. Age related artifacts are nonexistent. The gray scale, black and contrast levels are perfectly realized. Fine detail will astound. There are no digital anomalies. The audio is mono but very nicely cleaned up.
EXTRAS: This version also includes some very nice - if all too brief - featurettes on the careers of stars Rosiland Russell and Cary Grant and the making of the film. There's also the original theatrical trailer.
BOTTOM LINE: This girl is worth seeking out! ... Read more

Description

A Coast Guard cook wreaks havoc aboard a ship. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

ONIONHEAD
This classic had me rolling in laughter. I am a retired coastie and it brought back some wonderful memories. I could never have a cinnamon roll again without thinking of this movie and two great actors. Walter Mathau as a veteran cook with a drinking problem and Andy Griffin as his understudy and protector is superb casting. The movie gives a small sample of the Coast Guard's entry and roll at sea, at the start of WWII. I can't wait to acquire a new copy on tape. The first time I viewed this was on a Cutter at sea in the Atlantic. The whole crew loved it! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Night After Night was conceived as a serious dramatic vehicle for George Raft, a major star in gangster pictures (who had been a real New York gangster before coming to Hollywood). But the movie--for the most part an overheated melodrama--would probably have been forgotten long ago were it not for Mae West. Raft and West had been lovers when she was starring on Broadway. He brought her to Hollywood to give her a break in pictures with a small part in this one. But, as Raft said, West "stole everything but the cameras."

Raft is convincingly melancholic as Joe Anton, owner of "the swellest speakeasy in New York". He's sick of the racket, sick of the smell of booze, and sick of his girl, Iris (Wynne Gibson), a whiny, pathetic floozy. Lately his head has been turned by a classier species of dame, one Miss Healy (Constance Cummings), a society debutante who's been pining prettily in his speakeasy every night. Raft hires a high-falutin' tutor, Mrs. Jellyman (battle-axe Alison Skipworth), to improve his deportment and impress Miss Healy. He invites Mrs. Jellyman to dine with him and Miss Healy, when who should show up to wreck his plans but his old flame, Maudie Triplett (West). The movie shifts into high gear when she appears. It's fascinating to see West in a very different role than those she plays in her other films. No goddess with men falling at her feet is she, but an uninhibited good-time girl with a healthy taste for champagne. We have the sense that we're glimpsing Mae West before her all-important image had been finely honed. --Laura Mirsky ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Night After Night VHS
I was very disappointed in this video. If your fond of George Raft it is great. If it's Mae West your interested in there is not much of her in this video. The copy I received had some flutters in it as well.

A very good pre-code movie
I'd always read that this film's only asset was being the movie in which Mae West made her screen debut, and having seen it, I can say that that's untrue and absolutely unfair. West is in top & rare (different from her subsequent stereotyped love goddess persona) form as Maudie, Raft's old flame and friend, and her scenes are very funny, but that's only part of it. George Raft plays the lead as the owner of a Speakeasy who longs for things that money alone can't buy: prestige, class, a worthy lady-wife and going up the social ladder. He hires wonderful Alison Skipworth as a teacher, in order to learn the manners + way of the upper classes (her hangover scene with miss West is a gem). Raft also falls for very pretty Constance Cummings, who's good in her part of the impoverished socialite. Noteworthy performances too by Wynne Gibson (who physically resembles the young Miriam Hopkins, who was also a Paramount star in that period of time), as the vulgar and cheap floozy in love with Raft (who wants to get rid of her at any price!) and by Roscoe Karns as his loyal sidekick. Also in it, great character actor Louis Calhern as Cummings' rich suitor. In all a very pleasent, entertaining and very well acted movie, unjustly neglected and overlooked for decades, and merely dismissed as "Mae West's first picture". It's much more than just that kids.

Very Interesting...
Ms West... Was a class act and she was way way before her time... This movie(the second of hers I own)has some very interesting scenes in it... alot of "things" going on in the 1930's

MAE DAY
This is the film in which 39 year - old Broadway star Mae West made her debut in motion pictures; like co-star George Raft once said "She stole everything but the cameras". Alison Skipworth is hilarious as Mabel Jellyman and when she is taking nips with Mae, she asks "Maudie, what do you think I should do with my inhibitions?" to which Mae replies "Well, honey, I've got an old trunk over here"! When Mae asks Mabel to get into her "racket" which is one of "the best payin' around" (Maudie has her own chain of beauty parlours called "Institute de Beaut") Mabel mistakenly thinks Maudie's talking prostitution and answers "Well, dontcha think I'm just a little old"? Not a great movie by any means, it comes alive only when Mae appears on screen. "Night after Night" is the name of the speakeasy in which the movie takes place. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

A diverging story brought together under crime...
The Fabrini brothers, Joe (George Raft) and Paul (Humphrey Bogart), are truck drivers that struggle to make it on their own as a loan shark is on their heels trying to repossess their truck . It all seems futile as Joe and Paul's competition is full of bigger companies that do not care about the smaller companies as it is a dog eat dog world. This forces the Fabrini brothers to work long hours often without adequate sleep. One night after a rough day Joe and Paul pick up a hitchhiker, Cassie Hartley (Ann Sheridan), and together the three of them witness a truck accident where some friends die as they fell asleep behind the wheel. This is a wake up call for the brothers as they have different priorities in their lives, and it brings them in different directions. They Drive By Night is an interesting film with multiple themes, which offers a good cinematic experience

"The doors made me do it! The doors made me do it!"
This awesome classic starts out as a drama about the hard lives of truckers but ends up being a sort of film noir! Ann Sheridan was perfectly cast as a sassy independant woman, & I loved seeing George Raft & Humphrey Bogart playing brothers! And of course let's not forget Ida Lupino, one of the best (& craziest) femme fatales of all time! Also there's Alan Hale, who adds a whole lot of humor to the mix! I won't go into the plot b/c other reviews have fully explained the plot, but I will say that you definitely need to add this gem to your dvd collection! Be aware that the real star of the film is George Raft, despite the misleading cover art, which tries to cash in on Bogey's fame. This wasn't disappointing to me at all, though. I thought George Raft was cool! I highly recommend this to fans of great classics.

A Hidden Gem!
They Drive by Night was so much fun to discover! Anyone who likes old movies will enjoy seeing this one. With Bogie as George Raft's little brother, working together as truckers, and the wonderfully wicked Ida Lupino married to the blissfully ignorant Alan Hale, this movie was a joy to watch from start to finish.

Dynamic Lupino!
When I first watched this movie, I was only mildly interested in the first part which shows how hard life is for two trucker brothers (Raft and Bogart). Only when Ida Lupino is introduced as the off-kilter, man-killing Lana Carlson did I really sit up and take notice. She continued to steal all her scenes as she degenerates into madness after killing her buffoon of a husband for the cold Raft character. Her gradual breakdown is something to see and electrified audiences in l940. When she begins to shriek on the witness stand: "The doors made me do it!", you freeze in amazement at her powerful acting. Her "mad" scene was phenomenal. A note: compare her portrayal of the man-crazed heroine to the way Bette Davis portrayed her in the original, the l934 "Bordertown". Davis always bragged that the quiet way she went crazy on the stand was the right way but after seeing how Lupino did it, you'll think that Davis was wrong. Sorry, Bette, but Lupino did it a l00 times better and a hell of a lot more powerful. Lana Carlson--one mixed-up, crazy dame from Warner Brother's golden days--thanks to the genius of Ida Lupino!

Watch Lupino Go
They Drive By Night has a lot going for it. It's directed by Raoul Walsh, who knew how to make a tough guy movie, yet give it some heart. It has two of the screen's great tough guys, George Raft and Humphrey Bogart. It also has two of the screen's best tough guy girlfriends, Ann Sheridan and Ida Lupino. And it has some really great dialogue that time has not dated. It's the story of two truckers who are brothers, and it looks at the difficulties facing truckers (sleeplessness that can lead to accidents, suppliers that don't pay up, etc). Bogart and Raft are good as the brothers, although Raft doesn't have much of a range as an actor. Raft hooks up with Sheridan, a woman who can hold her own with any trucker. Sheridan plays her with just the right mix of outward toughness, but decency and tenderness, too. Unfortunately, Lupino wants Raft, and she won't be denied what she wants. Lupino gives the performance that you'll remember from this film. She becomes more intense with every scene, and by her last scene, she reaches a level that is amazing to behold. With Lupino's performance and the great dialogue, They Drive By Night is a Warner Brothers' film that should be seen. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

A must-see for fans of Fritz Lang!
A truly offbeat proto-noir crime comedy directed by German film pioneer Fritz Lang at the start of his Hollywood tenure. George Raft and Silvia Sidney co-star as star-crossed lovers who meet while working in a large New York department store whose president believes in hiring ex-cons as a way to help them socially rehabilitate themselves. Raft is an ex-felon whose probation has just ended, and he feels that now, at last, he can find love and marriage. What he doesn't know, though, is that his bride, Sidney, is *also* an ex-criminal, and when she discovers his distain for "female jailbirds," she goes to great lengths to hide the truth from him. As a result, Raft hardens again, and finds himself drawn again towards the criminal lifestyle. The film mixes elements of dark drama and screwball comedy, even mixing in an avant garde sensibility in a few odd musical sketches. There interludes are provided by composer Kurt Weill, also in Hollywood exile, and stand out, not unpleasantly, in a most bizarre fashion from the rest of the film. Also noteworthy is the kooky, deliberately anticlimactic ending, in which Silvia Sidney teaches the crooks, literally *teaches* them, the lesson that that "crime does not pay." In dramatic terms, the film is uneven, but as an experimental work, it's quite fascinating. Definitely worth checking out.

UNUSUAL CASTING MAKES FOR A FAIR FILM.
Joe Dennis and Helen, two ex-cons on parole, work in the department store of Mr. Morris, who kindly hires former inmates to help them assimilate to civilian life...Only one of them isn't quite reformed...A downright peculiar little comedy-drama which is fun to watch for that very reason. The musical numbers for this film are unorthodox compared to many others in American films of the period: listen to SONG OF THE CASH REGISTER which is heard spoken/sung in a deep baritone male voice as the film opens. It's a hoot! Also catch THE KNOCKING SONG. Lloyd Nolan was originally to have played Barton MacLane's role, but other obligations intervened. Carole Lombard was the original choice for Sidney's role - the original working title of the film was simply WONDERFUL - no pun intended. The film is an eclectic one - and was mostly considered weird by the critics who thought Lang had either lost his touch or his mind. But the photography is interesting and elements of the film - however bazarre - seem fascinating in contrast for viewers of original, eclectic vintage films.

The Gang That Couldn't Think Straight
Made in 1938, Fritz Lang's You and Me was probably the first noir/crime film to combine comedy, lighthearted romance, and musical sketches into a morality play concerning the consequences of crime. Sylvia Sydney as the sprightly salesgirl Helen, carries the picture. In a familiar role that seemed to define her career, Sydney became an icon for working women of the thirties and forties who struggled for an identity within middle class America. As in You Only Live Once and Dead End, Helen is similiar to Sydney's former characters in that they brim with hope. Helen may represent the underclass, but her unrelenting spirit transcends social boundaries. With Sydney's help, Lang made a case for improving the treatment of ex-convicts who were often denied basic civil rights. Harry Cary is perfectly cast as the affable department store owner Mr. Morris. Morris has hired fifty ex-convicts and justifies his actions to his skeptical wife ( Cecil Cunningham). Morris's goodwill is tested when eight of the employees plan to heist over $30,000 worth of store merchandise. The gang rallies around Joe Dennis (George Raft) who abandons his rightous ways when he discovers that Helen lied to him about her past. Director Lang mixes comedy with a lesson about the misconcepptions of crime. Helen is the teacher and she captures the attention of the mugs with a quick lecture in artithmetic. The message is "crime doesn't pay" and in Lang's film You and Me, it means more ways than one. Warren Hymer as Gimmpy adds humor to the gang's criminal fraternization. Raft known for turning down some of the best film roles ever, gives an even performance as Joe, the ex-con.

Damon Runyon Meets "3 Penny Opera"
"You and Me" (1938) is a genuine sleeper and a cult favorite among fans of director Fritz Lang. An offbeat, quirky mix of Damon Runyon and Kurt Weill (who wrote the music), this romantic comedy features George Raft and Sylvia Sidney in good form as an unlikely couple with a criminal past. Lang's expressionist style is evident during the Weill-inspired segments -- a Hollywood interpretation of "The 3 Penny Opera." Though not for all tastes, "You and Me" is much better than its critical reputation would have you believe.

Kiss of Death meets The Music Man.
Raft and Sidney are terrific. Fritz Lang's Expressionist direction, the snappy dialogue, the humor and the music make this little known film an absolute pleasure to watch. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

A Good, if not the best, Deanna Durbin movie.
"His Butler's Sister", was released in 1943 by Universal. The movie includes Deanna Durbin, Franchot Tone, and Pat O'Brien. A usual time limit of about 1 and a half hours, and directed by Frank Borzage.

Deanna Durbin plays the part of Ann Carter. She is a woman who is wanting to make a career of singing, but she needs to be noticed. She is going to New York to see her half-brother, Martin (Pat O'Brien) whos boss, Charles Gerard (Franchot Tone) happens to be a songwriter. Ann finds herself going to work, being Gerard's maid. So determined to follow her choice of being a singer, she continues trying to sing to him. A love story follows, and I leave it there.

I agree with what a few others have said about the script not really being very good. It does not stop the enjoyment. I guess the singing is the main thing, even with an odd storyline to go by, but its quite an amusing movie too. I like the film, although I do not feel it is perfect in any way, and its not my favourite Durbin movie. It is good movie for repeated viewings though, not really one that people get easily bored of. I can recommend it, maybe more to Durbin fans as opposed to those who are not.

Wonderful Deanna!
This must be the lowest budget movie made starring Deanna Durbin. What's up with the fake food? Where they limited because of the war effort? But as usual, beautiful Deanna with her great voice makes this movie worth watching.

His Butlers Sister
Since I have bought this video I have watched the film about 40 times,the voice of Deanna Durbin is just incredible,I have all her films but this one has to be the best for me,they don't make films like this anymore.
I am now waiting for this to come out in colour and on DVD then I will also add it to my collection.
Thanks to Amazon for providing all the golden oldies keep it up a very satified customer Thanks again for a great service.

Wonderful Songs
I really like this film. OK, the plot isn't brilliant but when it comes to Deanna Durbin and her amazing voice, you won't find a much better film than this.

The 'Russian Medley' and 'Nessun Dorma' are fantastic - I'm in awe when I listen.

The film revolves around Ann Carter (Durbin) going to stay with her brother, Martin (Pat O'Brien) a rather shady character who's told her he's better off than he actually is.

She wants to make it bigtime as a singer and when she learns that her brother's boss, Charles Gerard (Franchot Tone) is a famous songwriter/playwright she gets herself hired by him as a maid.

What follows is quite an amusing film where she constantly tries to sing for Gerard, but keeps getting prevented. Of course, then she falls for him and he her, but, Martin, doesn't like it and decides to ruin the day.

Add to the mix about seven butlers from the other households within the apartment building who develop a crush on her and do their utmost to please her and aggravate each other and you've got yourself quite a funny movie.

True, the plot and writing isn't a great standard, but it's still a very charming, feel good film that's very easy to watch.

A definite must for all fans of Ms. Durbin.

Cinderella-like story from Durbin's prime-exquisitely filmed
Though hailed as one of her hits from the 40's, the film itself is routine and makes her up to be this goddess figure through the film (all 7 of the butlers hopelessly fall in love with her) and having Franchot Tone as her leading man did not help matters either. On the Lux Radio program, Robert Paige had played the role (her co-star in "CAN'T HELP SINGING") and seem to be a much better choice, but his name was not big enough as yet--(it never got any bigger either). However, this happens to be one of my favorite Durbin picture, since this is the first "grown-up" film I have ever seen of hers. She is simply gorgeous in the film (possibly the prettiest, despite the fact that they gave her 3 different eyebrows..one thicker, one pencil-thin (a left over from her previous film HERS TO HOLD), and the third one in-between. Watch the first number, her eyebrows change in mid-song, twice!) and the songs are all out of this world. IN THE SPIRIT OF THE MOMENT, WHEN YOU'RE AWAY, RUSSIAN MEDLEY, and finally, NESSUN DORMA (The Prince). Great selection for a fabulous talent. The British people would kill me if they read this review, since this film is a cult classic over there, but let's be honest about the script. It is Hollywood fluff. But it is also extremely enjoyable, and I do remember not being able to keep my eyes off the screen for a second. It is simply wonderful as an entertainment piece. So, despite what anyone says, I would say it is one of her best. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

...TOMORROW WE DIE.
Diana Boyce-Smith, an aristocratic English girl, tries to do her part at home while her father fights at the front during the early years of the World War; she rents the family home to an American studying in England whose name is Bogard and there is an inevitable romance in the era of WWI. Joan Crawford seems awkward playing with a less than expert English accent; the part was actually a total figment of the scenarist's imagination: the original Faulkner story contained no women whatsoever! Gary Cooper is restrained, sympathetic and fairly believable in this; he and the great character actor Roscoe Karns seem to have the only genuine touches. Director Howard Hawks endowed the film with period detail; the air shots were esteemed in their day and the shots at sea are superb. This story was drawn by William Faulkner; this was his first literary effort transferred to the screen and it was done rather uneasily. Faulkner handled the dialogue (which sounds like short, urgent telegrams, instead of dialogue between people), himself.

Faulkner's story on men at war becomes a romance
"Today We Live" is adapted from William Faulkner's story "Turnabout and stars Joan Crawford as Diana Boyce-Smith, an aristocratic English girl doing her bit on the home front during World War I. While her father is at the front, Diana rents the family home to Richard Bogard (Gary Cooper), a young American studying in England. Then, on the day she learns her father has been killed, her brother, Ronnie (Franchot Tone), and her childhood sweetheart, Claude Hope (Robert Young), are ordered to the front. Sooner Diana has joined an ambulance unit to be near Ronnie and Claude, who are operating a torpedo boat, while "Bogie" jons the American Flying Corp when the U.S. finally enters the war. Then the love triangle between Diana, Bogard and Claude become entangled in a suicide mission to blow up a ship.

This 1933 film was directed by Howard Hawks, who certainly lends his talents to the action sequences in the air and on the sea. Interesting enough, Faulkner's original story did not have a female character, which must have made doing the dialogue for this film a real treat for the author. Adding the romantic triangle basically turns Faulkner's story into a melodrama, and while Crawford and Cooper make a nice enough couple, the soap opera ending is just so absurd. The best parts of "Today We Live" are clearly at the front when Crawford is not around.