For Judy Garland die-hards only
7 April 2004
As she sang in a Hardy Family movie, Judy was just an "in-between" when her first few movies were made: "too old for toys, not old enough for boys". What plot there is, is an excuse for the musical numbers, most of which are rather lifeless. MGM seemed to be trying to find some place for players under contract, such as Alan Jones and Fannie Brice. Jones is as wooden here as in every other one of his MGMs, this time without the Marx Brothers to detract attention. Fannie Brice was just not a film personality. For someone who remembers her Baby Snooks radio show as quite entertaining, the Snooks routine here is almost embarrassing. Judy was not given any songs in which she could reveal her personality. The last scene was (unintentionally, I suppose) comical, when the entire cast, including Reginald Owen and Billie Burke. simulate a group dance number. This one is only for Garland die-hards interested in her early work. (Actually, she is much more natural in her first feature: Pigskin Parade, since not all the weight is on her shoulders.
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