The Movie Musical!
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The Movie Musical!
Narrated by:
Erin Bennett
Buy Now for £16.99
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Narrated by:
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Erin Bennett
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By:
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Jeanine Basinger
About this listen
Leading film historian Jeanine Basinger reveals, with her trademark wit and zest, the whole story of the Hollywood musical--in the most telling, most incisive, most detailed, book of her long and remarkable career.
From Fred Astaire, whom she adores, to La La Land, which she deplores, Basinger examines a dazzling array of stars, strategies, talents, and innovations in the history of musical cinema. Whether analyzing a classic Gene Kelly routine, relishing a Nelson-Jeanette operetta, or touting a dynamic hip hop number (in the underrated Idlewild), she is a canny and charismatic guide to the many ways that song and dance have been seen--and heard--on film.
With extensive portraits of everyone from Al Jolson, the Jazz Singer; to Doris Day, whose iconic sunniness has overshadowed her dramatic talents; from Deanna Durbin, that lovable teen-star of the '30s and '40s; to Shirley T. and Judy G.; from Bing to Frank to Elvis; from Ann Miller to Ann-Margret; from Disney to Chicago . . . focusing on many beloved, iconic films (Top Hat; Singin' in the Rain; Meet Me in St. Louis; The Sound of Music) as well as unduly obscure gems (Eddie Cantor's Whoopee!; Murder at the Vanities; Sun Valley Serenade; One from the Heart), this book is astute, informative, and pure pleasure to read.
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Critic reviews
"An in-depth look at the Hollywood musical ... lively and informative ... the author is the perfect guide ... movie buffs and film students alike will applaud this delightful and insightful work."--Library Journal (starred review)
"A lively history ... an essential addition to any film lover's library."--Kirkus
"Exhilarating ... informative and insightful ... monumental."--Publishers Weekly (starred review)
This is a brilliant look at the Hollywood musical from the advent of sound through the glory years of the 50's, their fall from favour in the 60/70's upto the faltering attempts at revitalising the genre in recent years. Its chocka block of anecdotes and back scene stories of the films and their stars. Special consideration is given to Gene Kelly and Fred Estaire and their impact on the form and also the Fox Studio blondes. Its not just the actors that are exhaustively studied but the composers, lyricists, designers, choreographers etc that made the musical so special. An indispensable look at one of the true American art forms.
I grew up watching musicals and I've now started to rewatch them, inspired by the new perspectives that this book has given me.
Audible we need the rest Of Jeanine Bakers back catalogue on Audible ASAP.
A Fab Look At The History of the Hollywood Musical
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