Leave 'Em Laughing

'Leave 'Em Laughing' is a 1981 made-for-television biographical comedy-drama movie directed by Jackie Cooper and written by Tony DiMarco. The film features iconic actor Mickey Rooney, Anne Jackson, and Allen Garfield. Presented as a two-hour CBS special, the film provides an introspective look into the life of one of America's treasured comedians, Jack Oakie.

In this film, Mickey Rooney dons the role of the legendary comedic actor, Jack Oakie, a prominent figure of American cinema during the 1930s and 1940s. Mickey Rooney, an equally iconic cinema legend, brings his own unique style and experience to the role, elevating the character to greater heights. As Jack Oakie, Rooney pays heartfelt homage to the comedic genius while also casting a light on who Oakie was off stage.

The film follows Oakie's journey from his early days in the vaudeville circuit through his rise to stardom in Hollywood. The narrative focuses on Oakie’s artistic dedication, tumultuous personal life, and triumphant career. The film adeptly uses drama and comedy to narrate the life of the man considered a master of comic timing and physical humor by many early Hollywood veterans.

Anne Jackson's role as Jack Oakie’s wife, Victoria Horne Oakie, deserves special mention. Her performance beautifully portrays the supportive woman behind the comedy legend, navigating through her husband’s successes, failures, and the pressures of stardom.

The relationship between Jack and Victoria forms a significant emotional core of the film, providing moments of charm and raw vulnerability. The narrative clearly brings out the "push and pull" nature of their relationship as they navigate through various challenges thrown at them, both professionally and personally.

Allen Garfield, with his impeccable acting skill, brings to life a studio executive that plays a crucial role in Oakie's career path, providing the necessary tension and drama that connects the dotted lines of Oakie's life journey. His character is artfully woven into the narrative, providing an industry perspective to Oakie's stardom. His performance perfectly balances the drama, humor, and realism that the story demands.

A beautifully crafted piece, 'Leave 'Em Laughing' also excels in its set design, recreating the glamour and excitement of Hollywood’s Golden Age. The set designs, coupled with period-appropriate costumes, transport the audience back in time, providing them with an immersive experience. It’s a tribute to an era where vaudeville stars transitioned into motion pictures, capturing the evolution of entertainment mediums in the early 20th century.

The scripting of 'Leave 'Em Laughing' echoes the narrative technique of classic Hollywood biographies, providing a comprehensive account of Oakie's life without straying too much into sensationalism. Tony Demarco's writing distinctly brings out the ebullient nature of Oakie's personality while also highlighting his struggles and vulnerabilities.

Mickey Rooney's stellar performance in 'Leave 'Em Laughing' received critical acclaim, solidifying his reputation as a transformative actor who could carry both light-hearted and dramatic roles with equal finesse. His portrayal of Jack Oakie is often considered one of his best performances, capturing the essence of the legend while presenting him in a new light.

Director Jackie Cooper does a commendable job of tying together the different phases of Oakie’s life into a coherent narrative, offering viewers an enjoyable and insightful biography. While the film includes many laugh-out-loud moments reflecting Oakie's comedic genius, it doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of his journey.

In summary, 'Leave 'Em Laughing' is a heartfelt tribute to Jack Oakie, showcasing his life in all its complexity. Mickey Rooney's transformative performance, combined with the solid supporting cast and exceptional direction, crafts a film that is as engaging as it is insightful. A must-watch for those who appreciate the fusion of comedy and drama, this film offers a nostalgic journey back to the Golden Age of Hollywood and an intimate view of a legend's life.