Introduction"Hollywood Party" is not a common movie from 1937; it's rather a collection of numerous funny sketches, musical numbers, and animated shorts stitched together into a single motion picture. This star-studded screwball comedy was made by MGM, one of the biggest Hollywood studios at the time.
Plot Summary"Hollywood Party"'s plot is loose and includes a zany Hollywood celebration tossed by the film star, Larry "Schnarzan" Strong, played by Jimmy Durante. Strong goals to safeguard his movie career by buying lions for his newest jungle motion picture to surpass his cinema rival, Liondora. Strong's rich celebration guests include Baron Munchausen and the Maharajah of Ghan, both of whom have lions for sale.
On the other hand, we see a simultaneous plotline where a Texas polka-dot heiress, Harvey Clemp, played by Lucille Ball, and her dad effort to get into Hollywood society so she could snag a film star of her own. All these chaotic stories unwind at the grand Hollywood party.
Star-Studded CastThe film sticks out for its ensemble cast, showcasing Hollywood's leading stars was a distinct selling point. Jimmy Durante, Mickey Mouse, and Minnie Mouse, Laurel and Hardy, and The Three Stooges appear in the motion picture, each with their comedic gags, surreal humour, and sharp dialogue which was trademark of their private acts. The look of animation legends Mickey and Minnie Mouse, in a live-action production, was a considerable crossover for the time.
Musical Numbers"Hollywood Party" included numerous musical numbers showcasing the skills of leading modern vocalists and dancers. The amusing songs and efficiencies fit the overall comical tone while providing excellent choreography and singing.
Notable numbers include the primal yodelling number, "The Queen Was in the Parlor", carried out by June Clyde and Eddie Quillan, and Lupe Vélez's memorable Latin-inspired song, "The Rhythm of the Day". A chorus of scantily attired women rolling their eyes to and fro to the beat is an emphasize of this section.
Review and LegacyThe film received a mainly favorable response, applauded for its imaginative humour, extravagant outfits, and intricate set designs. However, several critics found the movie somewhat disjointed, offered its sketch-like structure and lack of a main narrative.
Despite its defects, "Hollywood Party" offers an iconic representation of the 1930s Hollywood scene. From the sophisticated outfits to the extravagant set styles and candid shots of the stars letting loose at a celebration, the movie paints a vivid picture of a bygone era. The movie likewise went on to inspire a series of "Hollywood Party" films, indicating its effect on popular culture and the film industry.
Conclusion"Hollywood Party" is a special cinematic experience in spite of the lack of coherent storylines and plot. It excels as a showcase of Hollywood's biggest stars and a fantastic display of comedy, music, and dance of that period. This movie is a must-see for those interested in the Hollywood of the 1930s, as it offers an outstanding representation of the movies, funny, and music of this golden era of American cinema.
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