Shooting High

Shooting High, directed by Alfred E. Green and released in 1940, is an endearing blend of Comedy, Music, and Western genre. The movie stars two of the period's most beloved performers - the singing cowboy Gene Autry and child star Jane Withers. Co-star Marjorie Weaver brings an additional layer of charm to the narrative.

The movie revolves around the life of Will Carson (Gene Autry), a charismatic rancher and cowboy with a soothing singing voice. Will's world dramatically collides with that of theatrical impresario Jim Hawthorne (Robert Lowery), and his star performer, the energetic and youthful Jackie Moran, played by Jane Withers. Jackie comes from the contrasting world of showbiz, and her fascinating personality offers viewers a stark contrast to the grounded and simple rancher.

The storyline begins with a shift when Will Carson unexpectedly finds himself embroiled in a B-grade Western being shot on his very own ranch premises due to an economic hiccup. Despite having no acting experience, Will faces the cameras with the same resilience and courage he uses to tend to his livestock and protect the ranch. Gene Autry is spot-on with his portrayal of a cowboy facing the challenging and at times, comically difficult, scenes of a movie set.

Projected as a refreshing city girl, Jackie Moran instantly develops a crush on the modest cowboy Will Carson. Jane Withers channels her inner teenager, taking the audience along on her rollercoaster journey of first-time romantic feelings. At the same time, she must navigate her professional commitments and personal desires. Jane's character brilliantly embodies the transition from an innocent youngster to a woman understanding her heart's intricate feelings.

Marjorie Weaver's character adds a twist to the tale. As a sophisticated city girl, she finds herself swept away by the cowboy's irresistible charm. This subplot instigates a comical love triangle overshadowing the existing drama of a Western film shoot, further enriching the narrative's body.

Shooting High's musical aspect is not to be overlooked. Autry's singing is a delight; his famous songs such as 'You are My Sunshine' and 'I'm an old Cowhand',' are beautifully interwoven into the storyline, making for some heartwarming moments. The iconic cowboy's crooning voice complements his character perfectly, setting a soothing country atmosphere that resonates with the movie's Western theme.

Jane Withers' musical moments are equally impressive. From an engaging performance of the traditional 'In the Shade of the Old Apple Tree' to the humorous 'Franklin D. Roosevelt Jones,' her vibrant stage presence and energetic singing sequences stand out beautifully in contrast to Autry's serene cowboy charm. The duo’s performance intricately balances the film between a musical extravaganza and a cowboy adventure.

The movie, set against the sprawling backdrop of the western countryside, explores the charming simplicity of a cowboy's rural living. It does this while simultaneously displaying the glamour and complexities of the showbiz world. Shooting High presents viewers with a cinematically picturesque presentation of both city and countryside life, its comparative analysis offering the audience an interesting perspective on contrasting lifestyles.

Although the movie is undeniably brimming with comedy, it doesn’t shy away from highlighting some of the stark realities of life, including matters of the heart, life choices, and the duality of the showbiz world. The comedic instances provide relief from the underlying serious undertones, making the movie an engaging watch.

In summary, Shooting High blends various cinematic elements - an intriguing storyline, engaging characters, situational comedy, charismatic performances, beautiful music, and stunning cinematography. The effortless portrayal of their roles by Gene Autry, Jane Withers, and Marjorie Weaver makes this classic movie a memorable cinematic experience. Whether you're a fan of the cowboy genre, musicals, or heartfelt comedy, Shooting High serves up an enjoyable mix for movie-goers of all preferences.