Sally

Directed by John Francis Dillon and based on the Broadway play, Sally from 1929 is a playful musical comedy that showcases the glamorous world of the Ziegfeld Follies during the Roaring Twenties.

Marilyn Miller played the title character, Sally Green. Miller, a captivating actress and accomplished dancer who found great success in the Broadway stages, brilliantly brings to life the character of Sally. She’s cast as a vibrant, ambitious, and sweet young woman who starts off as an orphan and dishwasher at a local café. The film throws the audience headfirst into Sally's life as she dreams of a better and glamorous life beyond the mundane struggles she comes across daily.

Alexander Gray assumes the role of Blair Farquar, a handsome and rich man who immediately becomes infatuated with the charismatic Sally. The chemistry between Miller and Gray is undeniable and forms the crux of the comedic and romantic elements of the film. Gray's smooth baritone voice and polished acting skills create a suave, charming character, which makes him a perfect fit for the role.

Adding a dose of comedy to the film, Joe E. Brown portrays the colorful character of Connie, Sally's eccentric, hilarious, and loyal sidekick whose antics help form many of the comedic moments in the movie. He consistently lights up the screen with his comedic flair and vivacious personality, and his performance has been cited as one of the key highlights of the movie.

The storyline primarily follows the journey of Sally with dreamy aspirations, exploiting several hilarious twists and turns, romantic encounters, and heartbreaks along the way. The film showcases her transformation from a dishwasher to a show-stopping sensation which is beautifully crafted with well-experienced screenwriter Waldemar Young's excellent storytelling skills.

Director John Francis Dillon does an excellent job in executing the overall tone and shape of the film. Dillon, known for his deft hand in both drama and comedy, doesn't disappoint in seamlessly weaving together comedic and romantic storylines throughout the film. He effectively manages to capture the essence of the time period, providing the audience with stunning and richly detailed production designs.

The film’s dazzling set pieces truly stand out, effectively capturing the extravagant glamour of New York's theatre world during the 1920s. It is a charming snapshot of the era, serving as a visual treat for the viewers. The costumes, designed by Earl Luick, are thoroughly alluring, reflecting the fashion trends and glamour of the time.

The film is also renowned for its musical score, which draws heavily from the original Broadway stage version. Songs like "Look for the Silver Lining", "Wild Rose", and "Sally", are performed with effervescence by Miller, and they play a significant role in drawing the audience further into Sally's life. They serve as perfect breathers in between the plot's progression, adding a delightful, melodic charm to the proceedings.

One can’t speak about Sally without commenting on Miller's dance routines. Marilyn Miller was at the height of her dancing career at the time of this film, and it shows. Her dance sequences range from high-energy tap numbers to graceful ballet sequences, and these sequences are truly a visual treat, harmoniously blending with the film's overall mood and tone.

The film manages to captivate the audience with its blend of humor, romance, music, and dance. The stunning performances of the lead actors, combined with an engaging storyline, dazzling set designs, and foot-tapping numbers, result in an overall delightful viewing experience.

Sally is more than just a film. It’s a glimpse into a bygone era, where life was celebrated through music, dance and sheer resilience. Though it’s primarily a comedy, it effectively illustrates a tale of dreams, struggles, love, and friendship. With its vibrant characters and engaging plot, Sally from 1929 is surely a classic musical that continues to enchant and entertain generations of viewers.