Dancing Co-Ed (1939)

Dancing Co-Ed Poster

After discovering his star dancer is expecting and can't perform, film producer H.W. Workman and his publicist concoct a scheme to stage a college dance contest to find a new star.

Introduction to "Dancing Co-Ed"
"Dancing Co-Ed" is a 1939 musical romantic comedy movie directed by S. Sylvan Simon and starring Lana Turner and Richard Carlson. The movie is a light-hearted romp filled with dance numbers, comedic minutes, and the charm of old Hollywood. It fixates the creative ploy of a college girl who desires break into the dance world amidst a background of love and competitors.

Plot Overview
The plot unfolds as a popular dancer in a movie, Freddy Tobin, played by Lee Bowman, gets sidelined by the unanticipated news that his similarly well-known dancing partner and other half is pregnant. The studio, desperate for an option, cooks up a publicity stunt to discover a brand-new dancing co-star through a nationwide college contest. Patty Marlow, depicted by Lana Turner, is an excited young performer whose ambitions are restrained by her overbearing dad, a vaudeville hoofer clinging to his faded profession.

Motivated by Joe Drews, a press representative played by Roscoe Karns, Patty enlists undercover as a routine student at Pottawatomie College with the objective of winning the contest and claiming the coveted role. Met with the challenges of college life and surrounded by competently trained dancers, Patty should find her footing and navigate the trials of academic community and budding romance.

The Rise of Patty Marlow
Two considerable individuals shape Patty's college experience. Pug Braddock, the school's smooth-talking newspaper editor played by Richard Carlson, becomes Patty's love interest. Initially unaware of Patty's true inspirations, Pug is drawn to her charm and spirit and consequently ends up being an unwitting accomplice in her scheme. There's likewise "Pops" Marlow, her daddy, represented by Monty Woolley, who, in spite of his suspicion, supplies support and insight as Patty pursues her dreams.

As Patty integrates herself into the trainee body, participating in classes and forming relationships, the preparation for the competitors intensifies. Patty shines in her impromptu performances, quickly acquiring appeal amongst her peers. Nevertheless, as the contest methods, her deceptiveness becomes more difficult to conceal, especially from the ever-vigilant Pug.

Romantic Tensions and Character Growth
Amidst the growing love story in between Patty and Pug, the movie browses through misunderstandings and romantic tensions that add intricacy to the characters' relationships. Patty faces her growing sensations for Pug and the ethical predicaments positioned by her preliminary deceit. On the other hand, Pug's journalistic integrity and his establishing love for Patty lead him to a crossroad when the reality begins to unravel.

Patty's battle is not just about winning the contest; it's also about proving her worth outside her daddy's shadow and developing her own identity as a performer. The interplay between her personal development and the romantic plotline offers an emotional undercurrent to the more comical elements of the film.

Conclusion and Legacy
The climax of "Dancing Co-Ed" culminates with the big dance contest where all tricks are exposed, and Patty's real talents are put to the test. With her relationship with Pug and her profession aspirations in the balance, Patty provides a show-stopping efficiency that mesmerizes the audience and judges alike.

"Dancing Co-Ed" remains an entertaining example of the golden era of Hollywood musicals. It showcases Lana Turner's early star power and the lighthearted, positive ambiance of pre-war American cinema. The film is not simply an exhibit of dance and music but a story of aspiration, integrity, and the pursuit of love-- styles that are classic and universally resonant.

Top Cast

  • Lana Turner (small)
    Lana Turner
    Patty Marlow
  • Richard Carlson (small)
    Richard Carlson
    'Pug' Braddock
  • Ann Rutherford (small)
    Ann Rutherford
    Eve Greeley
  • Lee Bowman (small)
    Lee Bowman
    Freddy Tobin
  • Thurston Hall (small)
    Thurston Hall
    Henry W. Workman
  • Leon Errol (small)
    Leon Errol
    Sam "Pops" Marlow
  • Roscoe Karns (small)
    Roscoe Karns
    Joe Drews
  • Artie Shaw (small)
    Artie Shaw
    Artie Shaw
  • Mary Field (small)
    Mary Field
    Miss Jennie May
  • Walter Kingsford (small)
    Walter Kingsford
    President Cavendish
  • Mary Beth Hughes (small)
    Mary Beth Hughes
    "Toddy" Tobin