Show Boat (1936)

Show Boat: Directed by James Whale. With Irene Dunne, Allan Jones, Charles Winninger, Paul Robeson. Despite her mother’s objections, the naive young daughter of a show boat captain is thrust into the limelight as the company’s new leading lady.

“Stunning, astounding achievement for 1930s Hollywood cinema. An early talkie musical that boasts excellent sound and breathtaking cinematography that points the way to the modern era of movies, including closeups and all sorts of rolling and perspective shots that were new in their time. This adaptation of the legendary Broadway musical (considered the first modern musical) is shortened somewhat to keep it around two hours, so the plot often seems to race through some pretty dramatic events. Veterans from the stage version appear in key roles, including Charlie Winninger as Captain Andy, Paul Robeson as Joe and Helen Morgan as Julie. While there are several cringe-worthy u0026quot;Negrou0026quot; moments, including Irene Dunne performing in black face, at the very least Robeson is handled with respect throughout. I must be honest and admit I am not crazy about Dunne as Magnolia, although Allan Jones makes a fine Gaylord Ravenal. I think Universal might have found someone a bit softer around the edges to play Magnolia, as much as I admire most of Dunneu0026#39;s film work. This is an almost perfect movie, and it is amazing that it was shot on back lots. As with Edna Ferberu0026#39;s stories, on which it is based, SHOW BOAT will transport you to another time and place, at least for two hours.”