Watch Broadway Gondolier

Broadway Gondolier is a musical film released in 1935, directed by Lloyd Bacon and featuring a star-studded cast that includes Dick Powell, Joan Blondell, Adolphe Menjou, and Louise Fazenda. The movie is set in New York City, with Powell playing the role of Tony, a gondolier who wins a contest in Venice and is brought to Broadway to perform in a new production.

The film opens with Tony getting into trouble with the police in Venice for singing too loudly in the middle of the night. He is spotted by a talent scout who happens to be passing by and, impressed with his singing, invites him to come to America to perform in a new production. Tony jumps at the chance and leaves Venice, excited about his new adventure.

On reaching New York, Tony finds himself out of place in the busy city. He is taken to see the producer of the show, who is intrigued by his exotic background and plans to build a show around his character. Tony meets the woman who is to be his love interest, played by Joan Blondell. She is a hard-working dancer who is skeptical of Tony's abilities, but slowly warms up to him as they get to know each other.

The show's producer is played by Adolphe Menjou, who is more interested in making money than creating art. He wants to use Tony to attract audiences to his latest production, using his gondola as a prop in the show. Tony, who is a proud Italian, resents being treated as a gimmick and decides to leave the show. But after some convincing from his friends, he decides to give it a try, and the show becomes a huge success.

The film features several musical numbers, with Powell and Blondell singing and dancing in a number of different styles. The set designs are impressive, with colorful and imaginative backdrops that capture the spirit of Broadway in the 1930s. There are also several comedic scenes, especially involving Louise Fazenda, who plays Tony's domineering mother.

Broadway Gondolier is an entertaining film that captures the excitement and energy of Broadway in the early 20th century. The film benefits greatly from the chemistry between Dick Powell and Joan Blondell, who both deliver solid performances. Adolphe Menjou is also excellent as the greedy producer, injecting some much-needed conflict into the story.

The film's direction by Lloyd Bacon is competent, with some impressive sequences, especially during the musical numbers. The script, written by Earl Baldwin, is light and breezy, but lacks depth in places. The film's ending feels somewhat rushed and could have benefited from a bit more development, but overall, it's an enjoyable film that's worth watching for fans of musicals and classic cinema.

In conclusion, Broadway Gondolier is a lively and entertaining musical that captures the spirit of Broadway in the 1930s. It's a must-see for fans of Dick Powell and Joan Blondell, and anyone who enjoys classic Hollywood cinema.