Follow the Boys

Follow the Boys, released in 1944, is a heartwarming wartime musical drama headlined by the charming George Raft and the classically trained dancer Vera Zorina. With a dynamic cast that also includes Grace McDonald and a plethora of iconic Hollywood stars, the film serves as an entertaining tribute to the brave men and women who served during World War II. It’s a star-studded salute to heroes, combined with music, comedy, and heartwarming drama.

Directed by A. Edward Sutherland, the film is centered around Tony West, played by the ever-enigmatic George Raft who, along with his wife Kitty, charmingly portrayed by Vera Zorina, is a performer in the movie industry. When the country is plunged into war, Tony and Kitty, along with their industry friends, use their talents to contribute to the war efforts by way of entertaining the troops and lifting their spirits.

The movie explores the world of show business in a very unique milieu – amidst the pervasive gloom of a world war. It paints a vivid portrait of the atmosphere of pervasive anxiety mixed with an incredible resolve to stand united and strong. Amidst these extraordinary circumstances, Tony West and Kitty maintain their unwavering dedication to the cause, undeterred by the challenges that come with performing under the shadow of war.

George Raft’s Tony West is an endearing character. His charisma, talent, energy, and downto-earth nature shine through, making viewers automatically form an emotional connection with him. Raft's commanding screen presence is matched by Zorina's Kitty, a strong, compassionate woman who is devoted to her country and her husband. Zorina's classically trained dance background adds a unique flavor to the movie, setting it apart from other similar wartime films.

Grace McDonald also brings plenty of charm and comedic relief as the happy-go-lucky Pvt. Rosemary Davis. She delivers an amusing and lively performance, lightening the overall mood and further enhancing the film's entertainment value.

One of the highlights of Follow the Boys is its array of memorable cameo appearances. Adding a heavy dose of glitz and glam to the frontline entertainment are some of the biggest stars from Universal Studios at the time. Each of these stars took time off from their schedule to make an appearance, including W.C. Fields, the Andrew Sisters, Louis Jordan, Orson Welles, and Marlene Dietrich, among others.

These cameos bring on an eclectic mix of performances from comedy sketches to musical numbers. The inclusion of such varied talent creates a large-scale cinematic sideshow that's a delight to watch. Perhaps the most captivating of these sequences is W.C. Fields recreating his old vaudeville juggling routine while Orson Welles wows the troops with his renowned magic tricks.

The movie contains numerous exhilarating musical numbers which are integrated seamlessly into the narrative. Complementing these joyous moments are heart-rending songs which encapsulate the sacrifices made in times of war. These musical numbers successfully convey a broad spectrum of emotions - from joyous excitement to poignant pain, which is reflective of the experiences of the characters themselves.

The brilliance of Follow the Boys lies in its blend of music, comedy, drama, and heartfelt tributes. It's a fascinating portrayal of the patriotic fervor of a country in crisis and a testament to the power of music and entertainment in difficult times. It also reflects a significant part of Hollywood's history when Tinseltown rolled up its sleeves to aid in the national war effort.

Follow the Boys taps into a palpable sense of patriotism without losing sight of the viewer's need for entertainment. It's a charming film that delivers a mix of heart and humor while providing an insight into the show business's contribution to the war effort. It's a testament to the spirit of people who used their artistry to provide solace, distraction, and a sense of unity during one of the most turbulent times in history. A fascinating watch for history buffs and classic cinema aficionados alike.