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Broadway Melody Of 1936

1935, Movie, NR, 102 mins

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Jack Benny, a newshound for the New York theater scene, learns that the talentless June Knight is backing producer Robert Taylor's new show and prints his "suspicions" about Knight's worming her way into a lead role. Angered by his longtime enemy's comments, Taylor races to Benny's office and punches him in the nose, prompting a full-blown feud between the two. Eleanor Powell, Taylor's forgotten hometown girl friend, comes to New York hoping that her old flame will give her a chance to try out for a part in his production. Taylor dismisses the silly girl, so Powell assumes the identity of mysterious (and fictitious) Parisian theater star Mlle. Arlette, wowing Taylor with her singing and dancing capabilities. Benny, aware of Powell's ruse, threatens to expose the charade, but Powell herself unmasks "Mlle. Arlette," finally winning the approval of Taylor as well as his heart. The second of the BROADWAY MELODY series, this is the best, thanks to a captivating performance by Powell in her first major role in a big-budget film. Her masterful dancing almost overshadows her energetic charm and wit in the nonmusical scenes. Benny is nastily wonderful as the scheming columnist, and blossoming star Taylor handles the leading man responsibilities with a charming zeal. Contains some fine songs, including "You Are My Lucky Star," "Broadway Rhythm," "I've Got a Feeling You're Fooling," "On a Sunday Afternoon," and "Sing Before Breakfast" (Nacio Brown, Arthur Freed). leave a comment
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