Strike Up the Band
Strike Up the Band

Movie spotlight

Strike Up the Band

1940
Movie
120 min
English

Jimmy and Mary get a group of kids together to play in a school orchestra. A huge contest between schools is coming up and they have a hard time raising money to go to Chicago for the contest.

Insights

IMDb6.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes80%
Google Users89%
Director: Vincente MinnelliGenres: Musical, Comedy, Romance

Plot Summary

Chesterfield "Chesty" Tuttle, a relentlessly optimistic teenager, dreams of leading his own high school orchestra. Despite constant setbacks and his father's disapproval, Chesty works tirelessly to achieve his goal. His determination is fueled by his affection for Mary Holden, who encourages his musical ambitions. The story culminates in a pivotal battle of the bands.

Critical Reception

Strike Up the Band was a significant box office success and a critical hit, praised for its energetic musical numbers and the undeniable chemistry between its young stars. It solidified Rooney and Garland's status as Hollywood's premier teenage musical duo.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its infectious musical numbers and vibrant performances.

  • The youthful energy of Rooney and Garland is a major draw.

  • A charming and lighthearted musical that showcases burgeoning talent.

Google audience: Audiences overwhelmingly enjoyed the film's feel-good atmosphere, the delightful songs, and the star power of Mickey Rooney and Judy Garland. Many found it a nostalgic and entertaining musical.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Scoring.

Fun Fact

This film was the first starring vehicle for the immensely popular pairing of Mickey Rooney and Judy Garland, who would go on to make ten films together for MGM.

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