The fun song tunes make this classic pre-code musical, Footlight Parade, breezy and fun. All the scenes which were non-musical were kind of superfluous to the film. Just bring on the singing and dancing, the pretty girls, and the great old stars. This film is eye candy for all those who appreciate the great artistry of 1930's musicals. A year later some of the scenes, with the chorus girls in skimpy clothes and bathing suits in particular, would not be allowed to be shown, after the 1934 Production Code arrived on the Hollywood scene.
The only drawback for me in the film was Ruby Keeler. I never understood how she became so popular. She wasn't pretty, she couldn't sing, and her dancing skills were only passable. Ginger Rogers would have been better! However Ruby was married to Al Jolson, perhaps that played a hand in her career. She surely is one of the strangest show business success stories.
The only drawback for me in the film was Ruby Keeler. I never understood how she became so popular. She wasn't pretty, she couldn't sing, and her dancing skills were only passable. Ginger Rogers would have been better! However Ruby was married to Al Jolson, perhaps that played a hand in her career. She surely is one of the strangest show business success stories.