Movie spotlight
What's Up with Nanette?
In her only self-produced film, Ruth Weyher plays the wife of a bankrupt night editor who secretly performs as a vaudeville dancer to alleviate his financial woes. Her stuffy husband, however, believes she inherited money from a wealthy aunt. When the supposedly dead aunt suddenly appears on the doorstep, a turbulent game of hide-and-seek ensues...
Insights
Plot Summary
A society heiress, Nanette, wants to marry a penniless artist, but her father disapproves. She seeks to prove her love and independence by embarking on a series of adventures, often involving mistaken identities and comedic misunderstandings. The film follows her attempts to navigate societal expectations and her own desires in the Roaring Twenties.
Critical Reception
As an early musical, "What's Up with Nanette?" was generally received as a lighthearted diversion with some musical numbers. Contemporary reviews often highlighted Beatrice Lillie's comedic presence, though the plot was sometimes seen as thin. Its technical limitations as an early sound film were also noted.
What Reviewers Say
Beatrice Lillie's star power shines through her comedic performance.
The musical numbers offer light entertainment typical of the era.
The plot is considered somewhat formulaic and less engaging than Lillie's performance.
Google audience: Information on specific Google user reviews from 1929 is not available.
Awards & Accolades
None notable.
Fun Fact
This film is notable for being one of Beatrice Lillie's early forays into sound films, showcasing her transition from stage to screen.
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