Despite her mother's objections, the naive young daughter of a show boat captain is thrust into the limelight as the company's new leading lady.
Although musicals are not really my thing, I feel like this one was pretty good. Directed by the legendary James Whale and written by Edna Ferber (who grew up five miles from my house), it is a wonderful tale with a great cast. A mostly unknown cast today, but that may be a good thing.
The most interesting thing is the race factor. On one occasion, there is a stance for interracial marriage. At least, sort of. And the black actors, while still playing stereotypical parts, are given some great songs. Allegedly Paul Robeson's role was expanded just for him. But there is also a blackface number, so it is hard to say this is a completely enlightened film.
Although musicals are not really my thing, I feel like this one was pretty good. Directed by the legendary James Whale and written by Edna Ferber (who grew up five miles from my house), it is a wonderful tale with a great cast. A mostly unknown cast today, but that may be a good thing.
The most interesting thing is the race factor. On one occasion, there is a stance for interracial marriage. At least, sort of. And the black actors, while still playing stereotypical parts, are given some great songs. Allegedly Paul Robeson's role was expanded just for him. But there is also a blackface number, so it is hard to say this is a completely enlightened film.