King of Burlesque

King of Burlesque is a 1936 American musical drama film, known for its extraordinary performances by star-studded cast comprising Warner Baxter, Alice Faye, and Jack Oakie. This film is a classic reflection of the Hollywood Golden Age where music, drama, love, ambition, and comedy were blended perfectly, under the helm of director Sidney Lanfield.

Warner Baxter stars as Kerry Bolton, the ambitious and hardworking proprietor of a successful burlesque house. The depiction of the rise and fall, triumphs and failures of this man serves as an intense studies of the human character weaved intricately into the entertainment landscape of the 1930s. Baxter delivers his character with an unmatched sincerity, adding a layer of authenticity to the drama.

Alice Faye plays a pivotal role as the talented and beautiful singer-dancer, Pat Doran. Pat works in the chorus line at the burlesque show and captures attention with her mesmerizing performances. Faye’s melodious onscreen singing sequences are one of the many highlights of the film. The chemistry between Faye and Baxter’s characters adds a dash of undeniable romance to the film.

Adding to the mix is Jack Oakie, who provides most of the comedic relief in his role as Lefty. His character acts as a buffer to the taut narrative and brings a lighthearted balance to the drama. Oakie's humor is natural and entertaining, making him a highlight in his own right.

The story of King of Burlesque is set against the backdrop of the dynamic world of showbiz. On one side, it gloriously showcases the glamour, glitter, and a myriad of colorful costumes associated with 1930s burlesque theater. On the other hand, it mirrors the hustling and bustling behind the curtain that includes organizing the shows, gathering the performers, and managing the audience. In this respect, King of Burlesque provides a sizable glimpse into the realities of a show business.

The script, punctuated by stellar dialogue delivery, is adorned with several unforgettable numbers like "I've Got My Fingers Crossed" and "I Love to Ride the Horses on a Merry-Go-Round". King of Burlesque also boasts a superb musical score that perfectly harmonizes with the melody of the storyline and the high energy performances. Each song and dance sequence speaks to the temperament of the scene and propels the narrative forward.

Aesthetically, the film is a visual marvel. The camerawork captures the grandeur of every single frame that ranges from intimate close-ups to extravagant wide-angle shots. The art direction and set design impeccably recreate the theatrical grandeur of the 1930s era.

While the film revolves around the abstract concepts of ambition and desire, it also explores nuanced human emotions like love, betrayal, and redemption. The film subtly delves into deeper aspects of these characters, showing their struggles, hopes, and dreams. It's this character development that makes King of Burlesque more than just a period musical drama.

Despite its release over eight decades ago, King of Burlesque stands as a timeless piece. Its seamless blend of drama, music, and romance still resonates with the audience today, making it a classic and a must-watch for fans of vintage cinema. In its entirety, King of Burlesque stands a testament to the powerful storytelling capability of 1930s Hollywood, driven by captivating performances, poignant narratives, picturesque cinematography, and enchanting music.