Watch Stage Door Canteen

Stage Door Canteen is a heartwarming and uplifting musical drama movie directed by Frank Borzage and released in 1943. The film features an impressive cast of Hollywood stars including Cheryl Walker, William Terry, and Judith Anderson. The movie is set in New York City during World War II, and the plot revolves around a group of young performers who volunteer at the Stage Door Canteen, a nightclub located near Times Square where soldiers come to unwind during their leave time.

The movie follows the experiences of several characters, both real and fictional, as they work tirelessly to entertain the troops and bring a bit of joy to their lives. The main characters are a young soldier named Dakota (William Terry) who falls for a dancer named Eileen (Cheryl Walker) and a hopeful actress named Jean (Katharine Hepburn - in a cameo appearance) who encourages her friend Eileen to follow her dreams of becoming a performer.

The movie is not particularly concerned with plot; instead, it serves as a showcase for a variety of musical and comedy acts. The film includes performances by some of the most famous musical artists of the time, including Ray Bolger, Ethel Waters, Xavier Cugat, and Count Basie. There are also appearances by Hollywood stars such as Katharine Hepburn, Tallulah Bankhead, and Harpo Marx.

One of the most striking things about the movie is the way it is able to seamlessly blend drama and comedy. The film is able to discuss some serious issues related to war and sacrifice while still managing to be lighthearted and fun. For example, one musical number features an all-female band playing instruments made out of kitchen utensils, a lighthearted moment that nevertheless underscores the ways in which women were called upon to adapt to new roles during wartime.

Another powerful message that comes through in the movie is the importance of community and connection during difficult times. The Stage Door Canteen itself becomes a symbol of this idea, as soldiers, performers, and volunteers of all backgrounds come together to share food, conversation, and entertainment. The canteen is a place where people who might never have met otherwise are able to connect and find common ground.

Overall, Stage Door Canteen is a charming and nostalgic movie that offers a compelling glimpse into a particular moment in American history. Despite its age and datedness, the film is still able to capture the spirit of a nation coming together to fight a common enemy, reminding us of the importance of community, service, and sacrifice. The movie's message of hope and optimism is as relevant now as it was nearly eighty years ago. It is a must-see for fans of classic cinema and anyone interested in the ways in which popular culture can shape and reflect our understanding of history.

Stage Door Canteen is a 1943 comedy with a runtime of 2 hours and 12 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3.