Pick a Star

Pick a Star is a delightful 1937 comedy film directed by Edward Sedgwick, showcasing the comedic brilliance of Jack Haley and Patsy Kelly with a captivating performance by Rosina Lawrence. The film is a blend of comedy, romance, and musical entertainment that beautifully mirrors the charm and whimsicality of the mid-late 1930s.

In this endearing slice of cinematic entertainment, Jack Haley plays the role of Joe Jenkins, a determined delivery supervisor at a big department store. His character is the perfect depiction of the quintessential dreamer, oozing charisma and an unyielding spirit that is set to enthrall the audience.

Aiding Joe's quest for success is his close confidante, the vivacious and unabashed Mae O'Brien, portrayed by the outstanding Patsy Kelly. Mae's role serves as a bold counterpart to the modest character of Joe, often leading the sequences into providers of incessant laughter.

Meanwhile, Rosina Lawrence steps into herself as Laura Pippinger, an aspiring actress and singer. Her character is a symbol of hope and resilience, beautifully etching the struggles and dreams of rising talents during the period. Her character is quite the catalyst, defining the course of the adventure that our protagonists embark upon.

The film's premise revolves around the seemingly simple life of Joe, which takes an unexpected and ludicrous turn when he discovers that Laura, a small-town girl with dreams as large as her talent, works under him. Realizing her potential and the unrealized talent, Joe promises Laura to make her into a big star. As they venture into the unpredictable and demanding world of show business, Joe and Mae find themselves navigating a series of comedic situations, with unexpected turns that make the journey nothing short of an entertaining roller-coaster ride.

Woven into the storyline are also a series of musical performances that are bound to have audiences tapping their feet. The song and dance numbers not just act as layers of entertainment, but also serve as integral parts to progress the storyline.

The director, Edward Sedgwick, wonderfully captures the essence of an era marked by gritty ambition and optimistically naïve characters. With subtle humour, slapstick comedy, and a dash of romance, Pick a Star achieves a balance that's seldom found in films of the genre. Sedgwick's careful orchestration of the film's elements and the brilliant way of storytelling ensures a viewing experience that is very much of its time, yet resonates universally.

The performances by the lead trio – Haley, Kelly, and Lawrence – are indeed the soul of the film. Haley's affable charm and Kelly's vivacious persona together concoct a chemistry that is fun to watch. Lawrence, on the other hand, brings a unique grace to the film by playing the newbie mesmerized by the glitz and glamour of Hollywood but still grounded and true to her ambitions.

Besides, the film also features comedians Laurel and Hardy in special appearances, which adds another dimension of humor and entertaining whimsy. Their appearances are unforgettable infusions of laughter, testament to their comedic genius.

Overall, Pick a Star is a classic entertaining spectacle, complete with delightful performances, comedic storytelling style, and a series of enjoyable musical numbers. The film is a reflection of the golden era of Hollywood where humor, music, and dreams painted a picture perfect for the audience.

So, take your time, sit back, and enjoy this charming 1937 comedy which is sure to leave you with a smile and possibly a hum to some charming tunes. Pick a Star is vintage comedy at its finest, filled with laughter, music, ambition, and dreams - the right ingredients for a perfect classic movie marathon.