Review of 42nd Street (1933) by Simon C — 26 Jul 2009

Here it is, the beginning of the clichés. That doesn't make it a bad film, though - it actually makes it more entertaining than it really is. The plot is wooden and the dialogue hammy, and we don't get to enjoy Bubsy Berkeley's stunning work until the the third act. But what an act! "42nd Street" is pure gold, and the other two numbers are almost as sublime.

Dick Powell is excellent as usual, Bebe Daniels is a blast, and Ginger Rogers shines in a very small role. The loose nail here is Ruby Keeler, who somehow got cast in a dozen musicals despite of her flailing arms, "gee-willikers!" style of acting and squawk of a voice. Blame Al Jolson, her inexplicable husband.