Watch Glorifying the American Girl

Glorifying the American Girl is a lavish musical film that was released in 1929. It is considered as one of the most important musical films of the early sound era, and it is a testament to the creativity and artistry of the filmmakers and performers of the time. The film stars Mary Eaton, Eddie Cantor, and Helen Morgan, who all deliver memorable performances that reflect the spirit of the Roaring Twenties.

The film tells the story of Gloria Hughes (Mary Eaton), a young and ambitious dancer from the Midwest who dreams of making it big in New York City. She moves to the city with her mother and sister, and soon finds a job in a Broadway show. As she works her way up the ladder of success, she becomes the shining star of the show and catches the eye of the wealthy playboy Jimmy Doyle (Edward Crandall). However, she discovers that fame and fortune come at a price, and she must struggle to maintain her integrity in the face of temptation and greed.

One of the main highlights of the film is the musical numbers, which are exuberant and colorful. They feature a blend of traditional Broadway show tunes and more contemporary jazz and blues numbers that reflect the changing tastes of the time. The choreography is also a standout, featuring intricate dance routines that highlight the skills of the talented cast.

Another notable aspect of Glorifying the American Girl is its production value. The film boasts lavish sets and costumes, which are designed in a style that captures the glamour and glitz of the Roaring Twenties. The film also features several elaborate scenes, including a dream sequence in which Gloria imagines herself as a star singing on a cloud.

In addition to the musical sequences, the film also has elements of drama and romance. Gloria's journey to success is not without its share of setbacks and disappointments, and she must learn to navigate the cutthroat world of show business with the help of her mother (Sarah Edwards) and her sister (Anita Page). Her romance with Jimmy Doyle is also central to the story, as he provides the financial support she needs to become a star, but also threatens to undermine her sense of self-worth.

The performances in the film are universally strong. Mary Eaton is a captivating heroine, conveying both the determination and vulnerability of a young woman pursuing her dream. Eddie Cantor provides comic relief as Eddie, a wisecracking showman who serves as the film's emcee. And Helen Morgan delivers a standout performance as Jerry, a world-weary nightclub singer who befriend's Gloria and offers her an important piece of advice.

Overall, Glorifying the American Girl is a lively and entertaining musical film that captures the spirit of the Roaring Twenties. Its musical numbers, production design, and performances all contribute to a memorable cinematic experience.

Glorifying the American Girl is a 1929 music movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 34 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.8.