Lost amidst the silliness of Jolson's use of "blackface" and the oft mis-told story (and stories) of his life, is the ever pervasive theme of Jolson's commitment to American Servicemen. No other entertainer, even Bob Hope, was so dedicated and tireless in his efforts to bring a little ray of sunshine to the troops, particularly those overseas.
And no other performer paid so high a price, enough to prompt President Truman to declare Jolson a "casualty of war."
This is an important story to remember, to contemplate, and most of all,to know. If you are failed to be moved, fail to find a tear on your cheek, you weren't really listening.
I thank the producers of this touching, beautifully made film for such an intelligent, thoughtful and valuable effort.
Joseph Ciolino New School University NYC
And no other performer paid so high a price, enough to prompt President Truman to declare Jolson a "casualty of war."
This is an important story to remember, to contemplate, and most of all,to know. If you are failed to be moved, fail to find a tear on your cheek, you weren't really listening.
I thank the producers of this touching, beautifully made film for such an intelligent, thoughtful and valuable effort.
Joseph Ciolino New School University NYC