From, Footlight Parade, one of the best and my favorite Busby Berkeley skits, stars Ruby Keeler (per usual) and the amazing James Cagney. Their dancing is unbelievable, and the opium den scene is positively shocking! Hysterically clever lyrics as well. Unfortunately the clip is only available when you wander HERE, but please do!
5 comments:
How did I ever miss this?!? I had to re-watch that opium den scene just to make sure I wasn't seeing things. And the incredible James Cagney in that sailor outfit? Aye aye captain.
"I pray to Buddha in the judgehouse,
and Buddha he bring back my Bill"
!!! This is by far one of my favorites Busbys, though I have to admit a marked preference for the fast-witted Joan Blondell over the soppy Ruby Keeler.
Ex: http://www.veoh.com/browse/videos/category/news/watch/v833469RtpFCT4R
Nick! I couldn't agree with you more!! In fact, Ruby drives me a bit nuts, but I LOVE Joan!
In fact, back when this blog was but a babe, I did a post on "R.M.F.M"...are taste is so similar!
http://hibernianhomme.blogspot.com/2009/10/you-had-him-cultivate-land.html
Cagney scoops up all 119 pounds of Keeler and puts her in his lap to start the dialog of the song. So demonstrative of how much sailor 'Bill' is so much in love with 'Shanghai Lil' and so overjoyed at finally finding her. Just observe how much he kisses her, takes her face in his hand, gently taps her cheek with his index finger. The love seen on screen is palpable! The chemistry is visceral.
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