Dixiana

Dixiana is a 1930 American pre-Code musical, comedy film, represents the early era of talkies with the added delight of spirited song and dance performances. Directed by Luther Reed and produced by RKO Radio Pictures, it boasts performances of Bebe Daniels, Everett Marshall, Bert Wheeler, and Robert Woolsey.

The plot is set amidst the rich backdrop of 19th-century New Orleans, a spectacle of elegance and elite society. The movie opens on the circus, where Dixiana Caldwell, portrayed by the charming Bebe Daniels, performs as a trapeze artist. Her two comrades, played by Bert Wheeler and Robert Woolsey, respectively named Peewee and Ginger, serve as comedic relief throughout the movie and are Dixiana's biggest cheerleaders.

As with any Old South storyline, Dixiana crafts a romantic entanglement at its heart. Daniels' character, Dixiana, falls in love with a young aristocrat, Carl Van Horn, played by Everett Marshall. Carl is the son of a plantation owner, a Southern gentleman who embodies the stereotypical role of the lover-boy with a serene and subtle charisma. The love between Dixiana and Carl develops and deepens as they share the screen, traversing the path of young love with their obvious chemistry.

The romantic plot thickens when Carl proposes to Dixiana and she accepts, genuinely thrilled. This leads to Dixiana being introduced to Carl’s family, the upper crust of New Orleans society. The ensuing scenes showcase the stark class differences, the contrast between her humble circus background, and the pompous Southern elite. Despite their initial shock regarding Dixiana's background, the family warms up to her when they witness her charm and earnestness.

The plot takes a complicated twist when Carl's stepbrother, Royal Montague, played by Ralf Harolde, comes into the picture. Royal, a gambler and a rogue, develops an intense dislike for Dixiana as he feels threatened by her connection with Carl. His wicked intent is to separate the loving couple, leading to a series of dramatic events, provoking tension and pushing the storyline's dramatic arc to its peak.

Like many musical films, Dixiana weaves several elaborate song-and-dance sequences throughout the narrative. These colorful numbers highlight the era’s love for spectacle and flamboyance, as well as the talent of a cast adept in performing arts. The movie incorporates a variety of musical genres, tying nightlife, romance, and celebratory scenes together with music, making it a treat for the viewers.

Glittering in period costumes and stunning set designs, the movie offers an exquisite visual experience. Incidentally, the movie is also known for its use of two-strip Technicolor in some of its scenes. The climactic Mardi Gras sequence, filled with vibrant colors and the trademark style of the era, is unforgettable and serves as the film's literal and metaphorical climax.

The film’s comic duo, Wheeler and Woolsey, provide comic relief throughout the film, a welcome contrast from the intense dramatic plotline. They also engage in delightful dance sequences, exhibiting their vaudeville experience, adding a delightful charm to the movie.

In terms of performance, Bebe Daniels as Dixiana steals the show with her radiant beauty and multifaceted acting prowess. She presents a harmonious blend of innocence, love, and strength, resulting in an intriguing heroine for the viewers. Everett Marshall as Carl successfully presents an engaging character to root for amidst adversity. Ralf Harolde's Royal comes off as the perfect villain, making the audience detest him with his sinister looks and conniving words.

Dixiana, while a product of its time, is an example of classic cinema, giving viewers a taste of southern charm, exhilarating music, and the thrill of love and play. Its comedy, romance, and music elements were groundbreaking in 1930 and remain a nostalgic treat for classic cinema lovers. Dixiana is an adventurous ride, a testament to the golden era of Hollywood, and an exploration of love, friendship, and justice.

The tale of Dixiana and Carl's passion, the flamboyant performances, the vivid picture of New Orleans society, serenaded by vibrant music, combined with fascinating sights, makes Dixiana a memorable film from the early sound era of Hollywood.