Movie spotlight
Cinema Circus
Actor Lee Tracy presides as ringmaster over a show that combines the best elements of cinema with the circus, what he calls a Cinema Circus. Tracy introduces a number of professional circus acts, plus a cavalcade of movie stars who have side shows under the open air big tent. There is as much action in the audience as Tracy identifies a number of movie stars watching the proceedings incognito, having their own fun in the stands, and sometimes interacting with the circus acts.
Insights
Plot Summary
In this musical short, a bumbling Ringmaster attempts to put on a circus show with the help of his quirky performers. Despite facing numerous mishaps and chaotic situations, the troupe strives to deliver a memorable performance for their audience.
Critical Reception
As a short subject from the late 1930s, 'Cinema Circus' was likely viewed as light entertainment. Contemporary reviews, if available, would have focused on its comedic performances and musical numbers typical of the era's short films. It is not widely discussed in major critical archives.
What Reviewers Say
A charmingly chaotic musical short.
Features some lively musical numbers and comedic performances.
Relies on slapstick and character-driven humor typical of its time.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this specific short film is not readily available.
Fun Fact
This short film is notable for featuring an early appearance of Eddie 'Rochester' Anderson, who would later gain fame as Jack Benny's valet on radio and television.
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