Something to Sing About

Something to Sing About, released in 1937, is an unforgettable classic that spotlights the remarkable talent of the era, with James Cagney leading the line, supported by the charming Evelyn Daw and the seasoned William Frawley. Directed by renowned filmmaker Victor Schertzinger, the movie is a lighthearted comedy and musical that charmingly combines elements of drama, romance, and show business, presenting an engaging insight on Hollywood's golden age. With a run time of 93 minutes, the movie provides an enjoyable cinematic experience.

In this film, James Cagney delivers an awe-inspiring portrayal of the character Terry Rooney, a bandleader who is well-known in the New York social scene. Terry is a natural performer, but is not yet a household name. His life takes an unexpected turn when he gets discovered by a Hollywood scout who believes he has the potential to become the next big thing in the film industry. The movie artistically showcases Terry's transition from just a band leader to a prospective movie star.

The story creatively follows Terry as he embarks on his new journey in Hollywood. Initially skeptical of the glamorous movie world due to its ego-driven personalities and the demanding nature, Terry soon attributes the success that follows to his talented dancing and singing. However, he is well aware that his fame could be fleeting, which intensifies the dramatic elements of the storyline.

On the romantic front, the movie introduces us to Terry's love interest, the elegant and resilient Rita Wyatt, portrayed by Evelyn Daw. Their on-screen chemistry significantly highlights the emotional undercurrent of the plot. Rita, a dancer in Terry’s orchestra, provides a firm anchor to the capricious uncertainty that Terry’s newfound movie career brings. Their love story is brimming with nuances that beautifully capture the struggles and triumphs of a couple grappling with sudden fame and the stress it brings.

William Frawley’s character, Hank Meyers, Terry’s pragmatic and slightly cynical manager, adds an extra layer to the movie. Hank's scepticism about Hollywood's superficiality offers a balance to the initial allure that film world presents to Terry. From negotiating contracts to attempting to maintain Terry's grounded persona amidst the stardom, Hank’s role in Terry's journey amplifies the narrative tension.

Something to Sing About successfully delivers a delightful satire on the film business during the 1930s, cleverly mocking the industry's conventions while also celebrating the magic of cinema and performance. The movie contrasts the brutally pragmatic business side of Hollywood with the dreamy on-screen world it delivers to the audience, providing a subtle social commentary.

Musically, the film is a feast for the ears, staying true to its title. The soundtrack, peppered with catchy and memorable tunes, embodies the spirit and essence of the era. James Cagney’s skills as a tap dancer come to the fore in several sequences, as do Evelyn Daw’s. This film stands as a testament to the multifaceted talents of both actors, as they seamlessly transition between acting, singing, and dancing.

The directing prowess of Victor Schertzinger shines throughout the film. His apt handling of the film's swift transitions between dramatic scenes, comedic passages, and musical numbers provides a smooth narrative flow while never allowing the story's momentum to falter. Quirky, comedic elements are smartly interspersed throughout the storyline to ensure a lighthearted atmosphere, ensuring an enjoyable balance between comedy and drama.

In essence, Something to Sing About is a captivating and stylish piece, firmly embodying the essence of Hollywood in the 1930s. The film delves into the struggle, romance, and thrill of stardom while providing an intimate look at the workings of the film industry. With its superb performances, engaging story, comedic undertones, and outstanding musical numbers, this film offers not only something to sing about but also something to remember.