This is not the most awful movie musical MGM made. As a matter of fact, in some respects, it is much better than the Peter Lawford/June Allyson version. But it shows its age terribly and either misuses or abuses some rather fine talent. I agree with others that Penny Singleton steals the film. Her renditions of Good News and Varsity Drag hold the film together. What is so disturbing is the total mishandling of Bessie Love, who could entertain with charm and grace, and Cliff Edwards, whose musical efforts are poorly staged and weakly conceived. The others in the film are best forgotten, not because they are bad actors but because they are so badly directed and completely uninspired that they chew up the scenery and mug incessantly. One wonders about MGM's selection of director, usually a sensible and sensitive choice. Perhaps Thalberg was on vacation.
There is little or no camera movement and the one or two good moments in the film, such as the brief and crude animation sequence, are too soon forgotten.
But worth sitting through the first half for Penny Singleton's tour de force as a singer/dancer. And once that is finished, you'll be as happy as I that some kind soul lost the final reel.
There is little or no camera movement and the one or two good moments in the film, such as the brief and crude animation sequence, are too soon forgotten.
But worth sitting through the first half for Penny Singleton's tour de force as a singer/dancer. And once that is finished, you'll be as happy as I that some kind soul lost the final reel.