In many ways, "Harlem on the Prairie" is just a standard B Western. However, it has more music, and real music, than other Westerns.
With Mantan Moreland's presence, well, we know there will be comedy. He is partnered with F. E. Miller, billed here as Flournoy Miller, who apparently was better known at that time, 1937.
Jeffries, billed as "Jeffrey," made a series of "Bronze Buckaroo" movies, mostly very low budget, and showing it, but his singing made them all worth watching.
Most of the other players aren't well known today, but the actor playing the villain in this entry, Maceo Bruce Sheffield, would be a scene-stealer in any A picture from a bigger studio. He gives an excellent performance.
By no means a great movie, it is still much more than just watchable. The singers are among the best I've ever heard on film, the direction is good, as in fact are the production values generally.
The script gives the players some clever dialogue, too.
I couldn't help shaking my head while watching, thinking about the stupidity of racial separation. So many show biz and sports performers never given the chance to show just how talented they were, depriving them of their rightful place, and depriving everyone else of the chance to see and admire quality, skill, and professionalism.
"Harlem on the Prairie" played on TCM Wednesday evening, 5 October 2022, and naturally there were the usual divisive comments. I've learned that often, maybe usually, these days it's best to ignore the TCM host comments and just watch the movie.
"Harlem on the Prairie" is iconic. It gives us a taste of what could have been. I hope you get a chance to see it.
