Reviews (6)

John Philip Sousa Fantasia
This is an amusing little yarn on Sousa and his music. Being only about 90 minutes long the movie does not attempt to be comprehensive with his life, but concentrates instead on creating a portrait of him. Clifton Webb has Sousa's somewhat stiff, yet humorous personality down pretty well. The episodes depicted in the movie are brief vignettes, loosely based on some actual events. The Marine Corps probably did treat their March King in a rather off-hand manner as shown in the movie. Sousa did make the Marine Band from a 3rd rate emsemble into one of the best military bands in the country, and the Marines could not really offer him anymore than what they had already given him.

The truth is Sousa saw an opportunity to market himself to a growing American audience that was starting to become more sophisticated in its musical tastes. He would perfect the band tour concept. Others had done it before him, but Sousa would make himself into a super-star, and truly traveled the world. The movie accurately shows his formation of his own Sousa band after leaving the Marines in 1892. Where the movie strays a bit is with the silly sideline romance. Here we have the typical 1950s guy meets girl thing going on. It's cute, but kind of takes away from the subject matter. Its also hard to say whether this is a musical or not? There is a lot of singing and show numbers presented, based, supposedly on Sousa's music. We do get to hear some good versions of "Semper Fidelis" which is played ad noseum!

I would have liked this movie a lot more if it had been a little more serious and showcased some more of Sousa's music. He really did write more than just 10 marches you know! Plus countless classical transcriptions, overtures, songs, novely items and arrangements of old American folk music. Sousa was our most prolific composer, his music typifies an era that is no more in this country. The Sousa band didn't march as much as shown in the movie. The band was intended as a symphonic ensemble. Sousa had enough marching from his Marine days! His band was certainly accomplished, and had some very fine players in it. To say as Americans often do that it was the best in the world is a bit of Yankee over-statement. Compared to most bands in the US, yes, the Sousa band was among the best. Abroad in Europe there were many fine military bands that were just as good. Sousa knew this, and he was careful not to over-step his bounds. He received many fine praise from European audiences, and this must have pleased him very much indeed. Sousa knew that the Coldstream Guards in London, The Garde Du Corps in Berlin and many others were just as good, lacking only the showmanship and Sousa's ability to market himself and his band and music.

The movie shows the warm relationship Sousa had with his wife, who always supported him and his music. "Stars and Stripes" came into Sousa's mind whilst returning from abroad after he had learned that his manager had died in the States. The movie cleverly marches us into the Sousa legend at the end which is probably just as good an ending as any. This is an old style movie with a lot of cute touches in it. It provides a musical fastasy of Sousa and his times. You can get an idea of who the March King was by watching it, but in order to get a truer picture I would suggust Paul E. Bierly's biography "John Philip Sousa: American Phenomenon"

An heroic American figure
This is a wonderful movie. I have been a serious Sousa fan since I stumbled across the movie several months ago. I marvel at the impact Sousa had both during his life and since. Great composers have an ability to far transcend their own lifetime and enrich ours. This is exemplified in the final scene where an ethereal Sousa is leading all bands.

Stars And Stripes Forever is Americana at its best!
Wonderful portraying by Clifton Webb. No other American musical comes close to "Stars and Stripes Forever." If you've watched this film and enjoyed it, you'll love "The Music Man". No musical holds a candle to these two! If you're proud to be an American, like me, you'll be entertained by this movie every time you see it. The way the marches are played in this film is extraordinarily exuberant. Treat yourself to a outstanding biography that is Americana at its best!

The story of John Philip Sousa, the March King
Well, I have just watched "Stars and Stripes Forever" (again) and gotten teary eyed at the ending (again). As in most musical bio-pics, the historical details play second fiddle to the music in this 1952 film directed by Henry Koster. This film follows the career of John Philip Sousa (Clifton Webb), from his last days in the Marine Corp to the end of the Spanish American War. Helping American's March King along the way are his wife, Jennie (Ruth Hussey), young Willie Little (Robert Wagner), an enthusiastic young man and inventor of the Sousaphone, and Lily Becker (Debra Paget), the love of young Willie's life. Musical highlights of Sousa's marches includes "Semper Fidelis," "Washington Post March," "Presidential Polonaise," "High School Cadets March," "El Capitan" and the title march (which came to Sousa on an ocean voyage and which he wrote down without ever changing a note). My favorite scenes are between the Sousas, as when he insists he has written a new ballad called "My Love is a Weeping Willow," but which she plays as the "Semper Fidelis" march (lyrics by Ken Darby). Then there is the point when Sousa is shocked to discover Willie sneaking into Lily's compartment on the train and stunned to learn the couple are married. "But they know how I feel about that," he sputters helplessly, having a rule that none of his musicians can travel with their spouses. "Yes," agrees his wife, "so that is why you have to pretend you don't know." I just love the way she handles him. Then there is the finale, when Willie returns from the Spanish American War, having lost a leg, and is called up on stage by Sousa to play with the band as they introduce his latest march, "Stars and Stripes Forever." I have always thought this was an awesome march and when the music swells as we see American soldiers marching to its spirited strains, it always gets me choked up. Now, of course, more than ever.

Outstanding family entertainment.
This is very much an "old fashioned" movie, with acting, timing, dialog, etc.without the use of todays special effects, nudity, profanity and violence. It appeals to your brain, rather than to your animal instincts. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

This 1954 musical remake of Four Daughters stars Doris Day as a well-bred New England woman who marries a chip-on-his-shoulder musician (Frank Sinatra). Lots of tears, yes, but this version of Fannie Hurst's novel is considerably cheered up from the 1938 tearjerker. Dorothy Malone and Elizabeth Fraser play Day's sisters (a fourth sister present in Four Daughters was written out), Robert Keith is the paterfamilias to a bunch of musical prodigies, and Gig Young is entertaining as the composer-boarder who tries deflecting the sisters' interest in him by bringing Sinatra home one day. Both Day and Sinatra really shine in this, and the songs include the Johnny Richards-Caroline Leigh title tune, which became part of Sinatra's standard repertoire. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (22)

EXCELLENT Film / DVD Good (Better than Video)
This is an outstanding movie for many reasons. For cinema fans only familiar with the "rat pack", this Frankie may be an eye opener. YOUNG AT HEART (1954) is a showcase for Frank Sinatra's excellent acting. He is intense, focused & nuanced, becoming one with "Barney Sloan," a gifted musician suffering through multiple "bad breaks" since birth & sorely lacking confidence.

Doris Day also brings much to this classic with a very moving performance. She is warm, lovely & upbeat as the woman of Sinatra's dreams, & so expressive in her eyes! The chemistry between these two actors grows with their characters' relationship; they share a number of memorable scenes together. They are surrounded by a very good supporting cast, especially Gig Young & Ethel Barrymore.

This is a romantic drama with superb singing. Doris & Frank's duet together is "You, My Love", which is a personal favorite. Ms. Day delivers several 50's pop songs beautifully. Frank makes his impact here as the saloon singer, with brilliant, moving renditions of "Someone to Watch Over Me," "One for My Baby," & "Just One of Those Things."

Initially, this film is light-hearted & glossy - until Barney Sloan arrives. There are multiple issues that his character brings to the surface such as: "destiny" & the strength of the human will, the pain of loneliness, the power of hope, life-changing experiences, & recognizing "love".

It's worth noting that the forty-eight year old YOUNG AT HEART was actually a re-make of a 1938 mega-hit "Four Daughters", & carries over some of its plot contrivances. . Don't let this bog you down. This little gem rises above it.

In my opinion, the DVD is a visual improvement over the fuzzy video. Having both the Video / 40th anniversary edition & now the DVD, I've watched each, sometimes scene by scene, to compare, both on the same television. This video has the same small scratches, circles / spots that can be viewed on the DVD; note the gingerbread scene in the kitchen. The DVD's Major Plus: visual details, such as skin & facial features, are improved: Doris' cute freckles are back; thankfully, the character "Amy" no longer has a blackened tooth when she is tying Gig Young' s tie (as seen in Video); and Frank's face shows some scars in close ups, a realistic touch for his character. Actually, the DVD's visuals, preceeding the film, are quite beautiful! The DVD is reasonably priced, although I would have been willing to pay a little more for some extras, such as behind the scenes photos... Now if the film preservationists could help restore the original negative of this classic movie, that would be wonderful. YOUNG AT HEART deserves it -- How about it , AMC? .

TOTALLY ROMANTIC AND GREAT MUSIC
Sinatra's portrayal of Barney Sloane (who is one of my all-time favorite characters in movies) is what really MAKES this film great. It's gritty, his acting is seamless - this film has some of his best acting ever. In fact, there IS no Frank Sinatra in this film, only Barney Sloane - I was totally engrossed in the character and he made me forget he was Frank Sinatra - now THAT's acting! Also, Doris Day is at her absolute best in this film. The chemistry between her and Frank is so much more exciting to watch than her work with Rock Hudson, who is like cardboard compared to Doris and Frank together. Great songs from Doris, and an absolutely PERFECT selection of songs by Frank. This film is sad, joyful, but most of all, ROMANTIC. Highly recommended if you want to feel your Heart!

Great Tear Jerker
This movie features Frank Sinatra in a rare very moral dramatic role. He is a sad low person who meets the ever beautiful Doris Day. Well she falls in love with his boss the ever impressive Gig Young. But then one day she finds out that her older sister has a crush on Gig. So she marries Frank. Well their married live is full of hardships and depression. And poverty. But when they have a baby at the end of the movie Franks outlook on life changes and he becomes cheerful once again. Great tearjerker. Catch Frank singing the title song Young At Heart!

Doris Day must choose Gig Young or Frank Sinatra.
Doris Day plays "Laurie", one of three daughters who live with Pop (Robert Keith) and his sister, Aunt Jessie (Ethel Barrymore) who keep the young ladies in line. Fran (Dorothy malone) just got engaged to Alan Hale Jr. (Gilligan's Island). Laurie and Amy (Elizabeth Fraser) make a deal to have a double wedding when they finally find the right guys or end up as old maids. Laurie has a new beau, Gig Young. Then Gig Young hires Frank Sinatra, a traveling piano player, to write music for him. Doris meets Frank in the family house and is sweet to him. One day, Gig Young professes his love to Laurie and they decide to get married. However, Amy secretly had feelings for Gig Young and Frank Sinatra had some feelings for Laurie. Frank tells Laurie, "Sometimes when you're on the outside looking in, you see some things other people can't". Things are about to change and not to as orginally planned. If you have not seen this one before, it's a real soap opeara doozy! Great set of a neighborhood and family house.

Never too Young!!
YOUNG AT HEART is a decent melodrama intersped with a couple of musical numbers featuring the musical talents of Doris Day and Frank Sinatra. Doris Day's numbers are light and upbeat and Frank Sinatra plays meloncholy blues (as a 'piano man' at bar dives, i.e "One For my Baby-One More for the Road"). The only time they actually sing together is a duet near the end of the picture but its worth the wait because its a great song and a great performance. However, the dramatic scenes they share are just as good as Day and Sinatra have good onscreen chemistry. Its a shame they only made this one film together because they were good friends professionally off screen as well. Day/Laurie Tuttle is one of three musical prodigy daughters to Gregory Tuttle (Robert Keith -Lt. Brannigan in GUYS AND DOLLS). A songwiter, Alex Burke (Gig Young-THEY SHOOT HORSES, DON'T THEY?)charms his way into the family home becoming a border to get inspiration to writing a musical. He becomes the object of affection to the three daughters, but is smitten with Laura immediately. However, when he brings in a piano player, Barney Sloan (Sinatra) to help out, Laura falls for his low self-esteemed but talented musician personality. Sinatra gives a very low-key understated performance as the angry (thinks-he-has-no-talent) piano player and Day is as good as always. The rest of the film is a little predictable, but entertaining and engrossing nontheless as love triangle(s) and misunderstandings arise as part of the drama. Gig Young's character and performance as the charming good guy and lovable songwriter is a bright spot in the film but it is slightly overshadowed by magnitude and presence of the two lead performers. All together, a film with a palusible melodrama plot, great songs, and most notable for the one time pairing of Day and Sinatra who have great on screen presence together. Lastly an overlooked performance by Gig Young. Note: Look for Alan Hale, Jr. (The Skipper of Gilligan's Island)in a supporting role and also,the great Ethel Barrymore (Grand aunt of Drew) as Aunt Jessie. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Fontaine was terrific!
I have watched this movie a few days ago. Throughout I was wondering how I never purchased this movie earlier and made it part of my collection. The scenary was great; the exotic Capri locations made every moment sheer delight. Joan Fontaine is perfect for the role she portrayed. Francoise Rosay, who plays Fontaine's friend and mentor, happens to be a very famous and talented French actress. The antique furniture shown in her villa was absolutely tasteful and beautiful. I highly recommend this movie to all of those who collect classics. ... Read more

Reviews (22)

EXCELLENT Film / DVD Good (Better than Video)
This is an outstanding movie for many reasons. For cinema fans only familiar with the "rat pack", this Frankie may be an eye opener. YOUNG AT HEART (1954) is a showcase for Frank Sinatra's excellent acting. He is intense, focused & nuanced, becoming one with "Barney Sloan," a gifted musician suffering through multiple "bad breaks" since birth & sorely lacking confidence.

Doris Day also brings much to this classic with a very moving performance. She is warm, lovely & upbeat as the woman of Sinatra's dreams, & so expressive in her eyes! The chemistry between these two actors grows with their characters' relationship; they share a number of memorable scenes together. They are surrounded by a very good supporting cast, especially Gig Young & Ethel Barrymore.

This is a romantic drama with superb singing. Doris & Frank's duet together is "You, My Love", which is a personal favorite. Ms. Day delivers several 50's pop songs beautifully. Frank makes his impact here as the saloon singer, with brilliant, moving renditions of "Someone to Watch Over Me," "One for My Baby," & "Just One of Those Things."

Initially, this film is light-hearted & glossy - until Barney Sloan arrives. There are multiple issues that his character brings to the surface such as: "destiny" & the strength of the human will, the pain of loneliness, the power of hope, life-changing experiences, & recognizing "love".

It's worth noting that the forty-eight year old YOUNG AT HEART was actually a re-make of a 1938 mega-hit "Four Daughters", & carries over some of its plot contrivances. . Don't let this bog you down. This little gem rises above it.

In my opinion, the DVD is a visual improvement over the fuzzy video. Having both the Video / 40th anniversary edition & now the DVD, I've watched each, sometimes scene by scene, to compare, both on the same television. This video has the same small scratches, circles / spots that can be viewed on the DVD; note the gingerbread scene in the kitchen. The DVD's Major Plus: visual details, such as skin & facial features, are improved: Doris' cute freckles are back; thankfully, the character "Amy" no longer has a blackened tooth when she is tying Gig Young' s tie (as seen in Video); and Frank's face shows some scars in close ups, a realistic touch for his character. Actually, the DVD's visuals, preceeding the film, are quite beautiful! The DVD is reasonably priced, although I would have been willing to pay a little more for some extras, such as behind the scenes photos... Now if the film preservationists could help restore the original negative of this classic movie, that would be wonderful. YOUNG AT HEART deserves it -- How about it , AMC? .

TOTALLY ROMANTIC AND GREAT MUSIC
Sinatra's portrayal of Barney Sloane (who is one of my all-time favorite characters in movies) is what really MAKES this film great. It's gritty, his acting is seamless - this film has some of his best acting ever. In fact, there IS no Frank Sinatra in this film, only Barney Sloane - I was totally engrossed in the character and he made me forget he was Frank Sinatra - now THAT's acting! Also, Doris Day is at her absolute best in this film. The chemistry between her and Frank is so much more exciting to watch than her work with Rock Hudson, who is like cardboard compared to Doris and Frank together. Great songs from Doris, and an absolutely PERFECT selection of songs by Frank. This film is sad, joyful, but most of all, ROMANTIC. Highly recommended if you want to feel your Heart!

Great Tear Jerker
This movie features Frank Sinatra in a rare very moral dramatic role. He is a sad low person who meets the ever beautiful Doris Day. Well she falls in love with his boss the ever impressive Gig Young. But then one day she finds out that her older sister has a crush on Gig. So she marries Frank. Well their married live is full of hardships and depression. And poverty. But when they have a baby at the end of the movie Franks outlook on life changes and he becomes cheerful once again. Great tearjerker. Catch Frank singing the title song Young At Heart!

Doris Day must choose Gig Young or Frank Sinatra.
Doris Day plays "Laurie", one of three daughters who live with Pop (Robert Keith) and his sister, Aunt Jessie (Ethel Barrymore) who keep the young ladies in line. Fran (Dorothy malone) just got engaged to Alan Hale Jr. (Gilligan's Island). Laurie and Amy (Elizabeth Fraser) make a deal to have a double wedding when they finally find the right guys or end up as old maids. Laurie has a new beau, Gig Young. Then Gig Young hires Frank Sinatra, a traveling piano player, to write music for him. Doris meets Frank in the family house and is sweet to him. One day, Gig Young professes his love to Laurie and they decide to get married. However, Amy secretly had feelings for Gig Young and Frank Sinatra had some feelings for Laurie. Frank tells Laurie, "Sometimes when you're on the outside looking in, you see some things other people can't". Things are about to change and not to as orginally planned. If you have not seen this one before, it's a real soap opeara doozy! Great set of a neighborhood and family house.

Never too Young!!
YOUNG AT HEART is a decent melodrama intersped with a couple of musical numbers featuring the musical talents of Doris Day and Frank Sinatra. Doris Day's numbers are light and upbeat and Frank Sinatra plays meloncholy blues (as a 'piano man' at bar dives, i.e "One For my Baby-One More for the Road"). The only time they actually sing together is a duet near the end of the picture but its worth the wait because its a great song and a great performance. However, the dramatic scenes they share are just as good as Day and Sinatra have good onscreen chemistry. Its a shame they only made this one film together because they were good friends professionally off screen as well. Day/Laurie Tuttle is one of three musical prodigy daughters to Gregory Tuttle (Robert Keith -Lt. Brannigan in GUYS AND DOLLS). A songwiter, Alex Burke (Gig Young-THEY SHOOT HORSES, DON'T THEY?)charms his way into the family home becoming a border to get inspiration to writing a musical. He becomes the object of affection to the three daughters, but is smitten with Laura immediately. However, when he brings in a piano player, Barney Sloan (Sinatra) to help out, Laura falls for his low self-esteemed but talented musician personality. Sinatra gives a very low-key understated performance as the angry (thinks-he-has-no-talent) piano player and Day is as good as always. The rest of the film is a little predictable, but entertaining and engrossing nontheless as love triangle(s) and misunderstandings arise as part of the drama. Gig Young's character and performance as the charming good guy and lovable songwriter is a bright spot in the film but it is slightly overshadowed by magnitude and presence of the two lead performers. All together, a film with a palusible melodrama plot, great songs, and most notable for the one time pairing of Day and Sinatra who have great on screen presence together. Lastly an overlooked performance by Gig Young. Note: Look for Alan Hale, Jr. (The Skipper of Gilligan's Island)in a supporting role and also,the great Ethel Barrymore (Grand aunt of Drew) as Aunt Jessie. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Credit this informative review to Michael from Muskogee OK
This is a bland little crime drama that screams for a decent story line and script. Two undercover agents(Fred MacMurray and Claire Trevor)try to bust up a drug-smuggling ring in Mexico. The two not knowing the real identity of the other end up falling in love. MacMurray proves he can play any kind of role. Trevor seems out of place and wrong for the part. Raymond Burr plays a heavy in more ways than one. Also in the cast are: Jose Torvay, Roy Roberts and Don Diamond.

I would add to this that if you want great film noir with Clair Trevor then check out "Key Largo"; as for Fred Mac Murray, "Double Indemnity."

A good movie to see, at least once
I found this movie to be fun to watch. It has a fresh plot, that is kind of noce for a change. I sugest viewing it at least once ... Read more