Movie spotlight
What's Cookin'?
J. P. Courtney wants to update the music on the radio program he sponsors, but his wife, Agatha Courtney, is the final authority and addicted to the classics and won't allow him to replace Professor Bistell and his symphonic orchestra. Conspiring with his daughter Sue and her friends, Marvo the Great, the Andrews Sisters, Anne Payne and bandleader Woody Herman, they devise a sabotage plot that gets rid of Professor Bistell, and a new sound is soon heard on the program.
Insights
Plot Summary
A group of aspiring songwriters become embroiled in a mysterious plot while trying to get their big break in show business. They stumble upon a secret formula for an explosive new motor fuel, which puts them in danger from nefarious saboteurs. Amidst the chaos, they also try to navigate romantic entanglements and perform musical numbers.
Critical Reception
While not a critical darling, 'What's Cookin'?' was generally seen as a lighthearted musical comedy typical of its era. Audiences at the time likely enjoyed its blend of music, humor, and a simple mystery plot. Critics noted its energetic performances and musical numbers, though some found the plot to be rather thin.
What Reviewers Say
Enjoyable musical numbers and lighthearted comedy.
A thin but entertaining plot with charming performances.
Standard Universal Pictures musical fare of the early 1940s.
Google audience: Audience reception information from Google is not readily available for this film.
Fun Fact
The film features a musical number called 'The Jitterbug,' showcasing the popular dance craze of the era.
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