Go Into Your Dance

Go Into Your Dance is a classic musical drama film released in 1935, directed by Archie Mayo, and starring a robust cast that includes legendary performers Al Jolson, Ruby Keeler, and Glenda Farrell. Produced by the acclaimed Warner Bros. studios, the film is an enthralling depiction of varied themes such as show business, love, ambition, risk, and resilience, told in an engaging and entertaining manner.

As the film begins, we meet Al Howard (Al Jolson), a vaudeville performer who is renowned for being as unreliable offstage as he is mesmerizing onstage. Al's reputation for unpredictability, coupled with a distinct lack of fiscal responsibility, results in him being blacklisted from the vaudeville circuit. This embarks him on a mission to restore his good name and return to the stage.

Ruby Keeler graces the silver screen as Molly, Al's dancing partner, who has been smitten by her charismatic partner. Their on-screen chemistry is undeniable as they entertain viewers with their stunning dance numbers and duets. However, despite her feelings for Al, Molly is fully aware of his shortcomings, especially his lack of commitment and unreliability.

The story progresses with a streak of optimism as producers Jones and Frayne (Helen Morgan and Akim Tamiroff) approach Al to star in a Broadway show. Struggling due to a lack of funds, Al, with his esteemed performer skills and his unruly charm, begins to win over potential investors for the show. The movie artfully showcases how performers of the era had to be more than just entertainers on stage, but effective salespersons off it, trying to secure funding for their shows.

Glenda Farrell makes a memorable appearance as the shrewd and savvy Trixie, who becomes embroiled in a complex love triangle with Al and Molly. Farrell's portrayal adds a layer of tension and intrigue to the narrative, making it even more absorbing.

Go Into Your Dance is filled with ageless song and dance numbers, a strong testament to the golden era of Hollywood musicals. The soundtrack, composed by Harry Warren, includes well-choreographed and excellently performed sequences, most notably the title song 'Go Into Your Dance,' as well as 'About a Quarter To Nine,' and 'She's a Latin from Manhattan.'

Al Jolson's performance injects energy and charisma into the narrative. Known as "The World's Greatest Entertainer," Jolson's vaudeville roots are evident, as he skillfully embodies the character of Al, fully capturing his charm, charisma, and rambunctious spirit, immersing the audience in the world of 1930s show business. Matching Jolson beat-for-beat is the equally memorable Ruby Keeler, whose performance as the loyal, love-stricken Molly ensures the audience's emotional engagement in the narrative.

Meanwhile, the film's elaborate set pieces, vibrant cinematography, and period-accurate costumes breathe life into the 1930s entertainment scene, effectively transporting viewers back in time. The film is a good study on the mixed bag of the show business, presenting the dizzying highs and the devastating lows, the backroom dramas, the wrap parties, along with the glitz and glamour of the industry.

Go Into Your Dance offers viewers a captivating and thrilling experience filled with humor, pathos, ambition, love, and fantastic musical numbers. The intricate plot and complex characters ensure a riveting viewing experience from start to finish, while the true-to-the-period set designs, colorful visuals, and enthralling musical sequences invite viewers into a world of nostalgia from days past.

While it is foremost a musical, Go Into Your Dance displays firm aspects of drama, romance, ambition, and the trials faced by those in the show business industry. This engaging blend mixed with dynamic musical sequences makes it a must-watch for fans of classic Hollywood musicals.

Watch as Al, Molly, and a colorful array of characters navigate the ups and downs of show business, risk everything for their dreams, and learn valuable life lessons along the way. It's a testament to the enduring spirit of the performing arts and those who dedicate their lives to it. Go Into Your Dance is truly a joyous and entertaining cinematic experience that should not be missed.