Stand Up and Cheer!
Stand Up and Cheer!

Movie spotlight

Stand Up and Cheer!

1934
Movie
69 min
English

President Franklin Roosevelt appoints a theatrical producer as the new Secretary of Amusement in order to cheer up an American public still suffering through the Depression. The new secretary soon runs afoul of political lobbyists out to destroy his department.

Insights

IMDb6.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes75%
Director: Bruce HumberstoneGenres: Musical, Comedy

Plot Summary

In this Depression-era musical, a pessimistic public relations man is tasked with reviving the spirits of the nation through entertainment. He concocts a plan to create a nationwide talent contest to find 'America's Official Good Will Ambassador.' Along the way, he encounters a young woman with a remarkable singing voice and a charismatic performer who may be just what the country needs to lift its mood.

Critical Reception

Stand Up and Cheer! was a box office success during the Great Depression, lauded for its uplifting musical numbers and the breakout performance of Shirley Temple, who was just six years old at the time. While critics acknowledged its lighthearted nature and entertainment value, some found the plot somewhat thin, focusing more on its musical components.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its energetic musical numbers and Shirley Temple's undeniable charm.

  • Seen as a welcome distraction and morale booster during a difficult economic period.

  • The plot is functional but secondary to the songs and performances.

Google audience: Audience reception for 'Stand Up and Cheer!' often highlights its nostalgic value and the early, captivating performance of Shirley Temple. Many viewers recall the film as a cheerful escape that provided much-needed optimism during the Depression era.

Awards & Accolades

None notable, though it is historically significant for launching Shirley Temple's superstardom.

Fun Fact

The film marked the first major starring role for Shirley Temple, catapulting her to international fame and making her the biggest box office draw in Hollywood for several years.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

This starts off quite promisingly, with a bumbling 'Dinwiddle" (Nigel Bruce) explaining to awaiting reporters just what his job as chief scout for Broadway impresario "Cromwell" (Warner Baxter) actually is. Then, right on cue, his boss arri...