Sitting on the Moon

Sitting on the Moon, released in 1936, is a captivating Pre-Code musical drama. This Republic Pictures film feeds your nostalgic cravings with its black and white presentation, replete with masterful acting, a soulful, melodic score, and a storyline that effectively captures the spirit of the era. The film centers around the complex romantic and professional lives of its main characters, featuring sterling performances from notable 1930s stars Roger Pryor, Grace Bradley, and William Newell.

In the leading role of the film, we open with Roger Pryor, who enthralled audiences in the '30s with his debonair charm and convincing emotive abilities. Pryor plays Danny West, an optimistic, yet struggling songwriter hoping to hit it big. He is a dreamer at heart, channeling his creative inspiration from the turbulence of his personal life. Pryor's nuanced portrayal of a man confident in his talents but struggling with success is what drives much of this film's narrative.

Opposite Pryor is the vivaciously talented Grace Bradley, who lends radiance and depth to her character. Portraying the role of fledgling actress Polly Blair, Bradley offers an enchanting performance replete with emotional complexity. Polly is an ambitious yet naive actress trying to break into Hollywood without losing her sense of self in the process. Her character is beautifully layered and is the perfect counterpoint to Pryor’s Danny West. Their on-screen chemistry sets a compelling stage for an exploration of love and career, against the backdrop of the challenging world of show business.

In a significant supporting role, William Newell showcases his character acting prowess as Oscar, Danny West's loyal friend and unflagging partner in both his personal and professional endeavors. Known for his character roles, Newell complements the main cast with humor and charm, creating memorable moments on screen, and adding to the overall appeal of the film.

The narrative of Sitting on the Moon seamlessly weaves a tale of uncompromised dreams, romantic entanglements, and the hardships of chasing fame. The plot revolves around the tumultuous journey that Danny and Polly undertake while trying to stake their claim in the world of showbiz. This film offers viewers a look at the fascinating paradox of the glamour and grit of the entertainment industry, a contrast that is reflected in the trials faced by the characters. The allure of Hollywood and its crushing realities are painted in broad yet intimate strokes in this cinematic gem.

What separates Sitting on the Moon from other films of the period is its soulful, catchy music, presented as an integral part of the narrative. The tunes become a character in themselves, offering insight into the psyche of Pryor's character and serving as a backdrop for many of the film's key sequences. The movie features several musical numbers that will have the audience tapping their feet to the rhythm of the 1930s.

Director Ralph Staub, known for his expertise in the genre, brilliantly orchestrates the film's storytelling with pace and atmosphere, further enhancing its appeal. The screenplay unveils characters and circumstances with the right amount of dramatic flourish and has been ably supported by engaging dialogue. Moreover, the use of lights, shadows, and cinematic techniques deftly captures the unique mood of each scene, whilst emphasizing the pivotal emotions of the characters.

Sitting on the Moon isn't just a simple love story or a tale of pursuing dreams in the challenging world of entertainment. It's a harmonious blend of romance, ambition, struggle, and captivating music—an enticing mixture that rarely fails to win hearts. It takes you back to the golden age of cinema and reminds you of the magic that old Hollywood was capable of weaving on screen. This film offers a nostalgic sojourn into yesteryears, making it a must-watch for lovers of classic cinema. The charm, the sparkle and the enduring spirit, both of the characters and the era, are bound to leave you moved and entertained in equal measure. To watch Sitting on the Moon is to experience an era and cinema style that, while distant now, still has a timeless appeal.