If you've watched many musicals (particularly Fox musicals), then you'll have a strong sense of déjà vu when you watch it. In other words, the script is the exact same script that you've seen before and will see again if you watch any more musicals from this era it's . Without even searching IMDb, I recall having seen the exact same script (with very minor changes) in "Alexander's Ragtime Band". And, considering that Warner Baxter stars in the film, it can be compared in many ways to "42nd Street".
Here is the clichéd story outline. Baxter is super-successful at what he does best--Burlesque-inspired musicals for the masses. However, he meets a highbrow society dame and loses his focus--trying to make sophisticated shows instead of his usual fare. Naturally, they flop. In addition, he has another woman who adores him but he just doesn't see it. Late in the film, this woman (Alice Faye) returns and unknown to him finances his comeback. Only then, when he's back on top, does he realize that he's loved her all along--and the film ends with them in the clinch.
Unfortunately, this one has relatively bland songs and a terribly muted performance from Baxter. Regardless why, it's just a rather well made but dull musical with nothing distinguished to offer. I did appreciate, however, that the two female dancing leads were a bit chunky--a nice acknowledgment that not all ladies are size 4!
Here is the clichéd story outline. Baxter is super-successful at what he does best--Burlesque-inspired musicals for the masses. However, he meets a highbrow society dame and loses his focus--trying to make sophisticated shows instead of his usual fare. Naturally, they flop. In addition, he has another woman who adores him but he just doesn't see it. Late in the film, this woman (Alice Faye) returns and unknown to him finances his comeback. Only then, when he's back on top, does he realize that he's loved her all along--and the film ends with them in the clinch.
Unfortunately, this one has relatively bland songs and a terribly muted performance from Baxter. Regardless why, it's just a rather well made but dull musical with nothing distinguished to offer. I did appreciate, however, that the two female dancing leads were a bit chunky--a nice acknowledgment that not all ladies are size 4!