Pigskin Parade (1936)

Pigskin Parade Poster

Bessie and Winston "Slug" Winters are married coaches whose mission is to whip their college football team into shape. Just in time, they discover a hillbilly farmhand and his sister. But the hillbilly farmhand's ability to throw melons enables him to become their star passing ace.

Overview
"Pigskin Parade" is a 1936 musical comedy movie directed by David Butler. It stars Stuart Erwin, Patsy Kelly, Jack Haley, and Betty Grable. The film is extensively acknowledged for its vibrant, appealing story, ingenious movie script, and unforgettable musical performances. The movie is also popular for including a young Judy Garland in her first feature movie, though not in a starring role. The movie's ingenious and dynamic movie script by William M. Conselman and Harry Tugend was Academy Award-nominated.

Plot Summary
"Pigskin Parade" starts in the town of Texas State University, where the university's football group is having a hard time to maintain its dignity after a series of disastrous games. An Eastern team welcomes the university for a charity video game, which forces the devoted however inexperienced coach, Slug Winters (played by Jack Haley), to say Yes, considering it a possibility to enhance his team's reputation.

In a fumble of luck, a young farm young boy named Amos Dodd (portrayed by Stuart Erwin) is discovered, who appears to have a natural talent for tossing watermelons with amazing precision and force. His skills are unintentionally noticed by Slug's wife, Bessie (Patsy Kelly), who brings him into the team believing he might be their big break. Amos's abrupt popularity and incredible talent trigger interest, but complications develop when he can only throw efficiently while whistling his favorite tune.

Performances & Music
The film is significant for its impressive performances by the ensemble cast and its robust and vibrant music. Stuart Erwin is laudable in his role as the guileless farm kid with a present for throwing watermelons. Patsy Kelly provides an equally engaging efficiency as Bessie, his excited and innovative benefactor. Jack Haley, understood for his role as Tin Man in the "Wizard of Oz", offers a delightful performance as the beleaguered however figured out coach, Slug Winters.

Music plays a substantial role in "Pigskin Parade", with compositions by Mack Gordon and Harry Revel. It likewise includes Judy Garland's mesmerizing voice. At only 13 years of ages, Judy Garland makes her film launching here and sings three tunes, impressing with her vocal maturity and talent.

Important Reception & Legacy
"Pigskin Parade" received beneficial evaluations for its engaging comical story, amazing performances, and memorable music. The movie was a turning point for 20th Century Fox, particularly with the hype around the up-and-coming skill of Judy Garland. Its appeal prepared for the extension of musicals in Hollywood.

Stuart Erwin's remarkable efficiency made him an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Regardless of not winning, this nomination strengthened his status as a knowledgeable character star in Hollywood.

The film remains relevant throughout the years due to its historical significance in presenting Judy Garland to the silver screen. It's thought about a timeless in musical comedy and college sports categories and continues to captivate audiences with its vintage charm, humor, and timeless tunes.

Top Cast

  • Stuart Erwin (small)
    Stuart Erwin
    Amos Dodd
  • Patsy Kelly (small)
    Patsy Kelly
    Bessie Winters
  • Jack Haley (small)
    Jack Haley
    Slug Winters
  • Johnny Downs (small)
    Johnny Downs
    Chip Carson
  • Betty Grable (small)
    Betty Grable
    Laura Watson
  • Arline Judge (small)
    Arline Judge
    Sally Saxon
  • Dixie Dunbar (small)
    Dixie Dunbar
    Ginger Jones
  • Judy Garland (small)
    Judy Garland
    Sairy Dodd
  • Tony Martin (small)
    Tony Martin
    Tommy Barker
  • James V. Kern
    The Yacht Club Boys
  • Charles Adler
    The Yacht Club Boys