Change Your Image
fisherj
Reviews
Go Into Your Dance (1935)
Jolson at his best; terrific 1930s musical
It is often written that Al Jolson was not a great screen actor and there is truth in this, but Jolson was at his best in "Go Into Your Dance." Co-starring with his then-wife Ruby Keeler, also at her best in this film, Jolson introduces songs forever after associated with him ("About a Quarter to Nine," "She's a Latin from Manhattan") and the film is a logical successor to "42nd Street." Bonuses include comedy from Patsy Kelly, who works well with Jolson, and the legendary torch singer Helen Morgan who, unfortunately, only sings one song. The filmmakers missed an opportunity not having Jolson and Morgan perform together. Especially entertaining is the fast-paced, melodramatic conclusion with Jolson on-stage in his characteristic black face reprising "About a Quarter to Nine" and singing the film's title song, "Go Into Your Dance." This film should be more highly regarded as one of the more entertaining musicals of the 1930s.
Pocketful of Miracles (1961)
Enjoyable, light-hearted, old-fashioned film
Although this is an old-fashioned film in its values and style, it is also very funny. Great performances from Bette Davis, Peter Falk, Thomas Mitchell, Edward Everett Horton, and other vintage character actors. Ann-Margret, who has grown into a wonderful actress, is god-awful as the ingénue. Many nice Frank Capra touches and 1920s Damon Runyon flavor. A charmer if you're in the right mood. This was Capra's last film as a director and is a remake of his 1933 film "Lady for a Day," which is also enjoyable, although I prefer this remake mostly for Davis's performance. Glenn Ford has never been a favorite of mine, but he is good as Dave the Dude and seems to be relishing the opportunity to play comedy. Hope Lange plays his girlfriend and gives a good performance.