![]() Keeler and Powell were the most frequent headliners, supported by character players such as Joan Blondell, Guy Kibbee, and Ned Sparks, and most of the songs were contributed by Harry Warren and Al Dubin. In many ways, the title song from Dames sums it up best: "What do you go for / to see a show for? / Tell the truth, you go to see those beautiful dames." While Berkeley choreographed and directed the musical sequences in these films, the plot sections were generally directed by others such as Lloyd Bacon. By the dozens, they dance, play pianos, frolic in waterfalls, and, in some of the most overtly sexual numbers, stand spread-eagled in a line as the camera passes through their legs. But more than anything, they're known for their celebration of women. Berkeley's numbers are known for their kaleidoscopic patterns, their stark black-and-white contrast, and their sheer sense of spectacle. ![]() This is the quintessential backstage musical in which young Peggy Sawyer (Ruby Keeler) goes from wide-eyed chorus girl to leading lady, urged by Warner Baxter, "You're going out there a youngster, but you've got to come back a star!" A cast that also includes Dick Powell and Ginger Rogers (when she was an RKO contract player and before she teamed up with Fred Astaire) performs "Shuffle Off to Buffalo, " "You're Getting to Be a Habit with Me," and the title tune, in which Keeler tap-dances on a black surface that turns out to be the roof of a car. The centerpiece is of course 42nd Street (1933). I think her studio d.The Busby Berkeley Collection celebrates the work of one of the most visually inventive director-choreographers in the history of film. Read full article "Footlight Parade," or TapsBy David on From The Man on the Flying Trapezeįirst off, let me say I was delighted to see you at the premiere of "Gold Diggers of 1933" the other night along with your new protege, Miss LaTour. This is also part of a year-long series of articles celebrating the 100th anniversar. This article is part of The Busby Berkeley Blogathon hosted by Hometowns to Hollywood. The pre-code musical stars Joan Blondell (left), James Cagney, and Ruby Keeler. Today, I'm reviewing Footlight Parade (1933). Read full article Footlight ParadeBy Amanda Garrett on From Old Hollywood Films To celebrate and share this musical love, here is my weekly feature about musicals. In 2010, I revealed I had seen 400 movie musicals over the course of eight years. ![]() It?s no secret that the Hollywood Comet loves musicals. Read full article Musical Monday: Footlight Parade (1933) on From Comet Over Hollywood Because, in a sense, it’s a period piece even if that period is only a few years prior when. Though it still came out in the middle of The Depression, there is a sense that Footlight Parade does not confront the contemporary issues head on?and maybe that causes it to lose some potential power. Read full article Footlight Parade (1933)By 4 Star Film Fan on From 4 Star Films These busy, bubbly productions full of wit, beauty and excitement are pleasant to have on in the background, but deserving of the most devoted attention. On Blu-ray: James Cagney and Joan Blondell in Busby Berkeley's Footlight Parade (1933)By KC on From Classic MoviesĪll film fans have their cinematic version of comfort food and mine is the musicals of choreographer Busby Berkeley.
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