Lullaby of Broadway
Pretty Melinda Howard has been abroad singing with a musical troupe. She decides to return home to surprise her mother whom she thinks is a successful Broadway star with a mansion in Manhattan. She doesn't know that her mother is actually a burnt-out cabaret singer with a love for whiskey. When she arrives at the mansion, she is taken in by the two servants who are friends of her mother's. The house actually belongs to Adolph Hubbell, a kind-hearted Broadway producer who also gets drawn into the charade. Hubbell takes a shine to Melinda and agrees to star her in his next show. Melinda also finds romance with a handsome hoofer who's also in the show. All is going well for Melinda except that she wants to see her mother who keeps putting off their reunion.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young woman, recently returned from Europe, discovers that her estranged Broadway star mother has fallen on hard times and is now performing in a less-than-glamorous nightclub. She attempts to revive her mother's career and mend their fractured relationship, navigating the competitive and often fickle world of show business. The story explores themes of family, ambition, and the price of fame.
Critical Reception
This musical comedy was generally well-received by audiences for its vibrant musical numbers and charming performances, particularly from Doris Day. Critics often praised the song-and-dance routines and the nostalgic portrayal of Broadway, though some found the plot somewhat conventional.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its lively musical numbers and energetic performances.
- Doris Day's rendition of the title song was a particular highlight.
- The film offers a nostalgic glimpse into the world of Broadway entertainment.
Google audience: Audience reception information for this film is not readily available through Google Reviews.
Fun Fact
The film features a lively production number of the iconic title song, 'Lullaby of Broadway', which won the Academy Award for Best Song in 1935 for the film 'Gold Diggers of 1935'.
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