Watch Stormy Weather

Stormy Weather, released in 1943, is a musical extravaganza that features the talents of some of America's most beloved musical performers of the era. The movie is a celebration of African American music and dance that showcases the immense talent and creativity of the performers. The film stars the legendary Lena Horne, who plays the leading role of Selina Rogers, a singer who is trying to make it big in show business. Bill Robinson plays Selina's love interest, Bill Williamson, a successful dancer who is famous for his "stair dance." Together, they bring their charisma and charm to the screen, creating a sense of romance and excitement that electrifies the audience.

The movie is named after the song "Stormy Weather," which was written to express the pain of lost love. The song is considered one of the great American standards, and Lena Horne's rendition of it in the movie is considered one of her most iconic performances. She sings it with such emotion and intensity that the song becomes a mantra that encapsulates the entire movie.

Cab Calloway and his Cotton Club Orchestra also feature prominently in the movie. Calloway, who was one of the most popular bandleaders of the time, delivers a captivating performance of his signature song "Jumpin' Jive," which he sings and dances to with his Orchestra. His magnetic presence and jazzy tunes create a sense of exuberance that lifts the spirits of everyone watching.

The movie is not only a musical showcase, but it also has a storyline that follows Selena Rogers as she tries to make it in show business. As an African American woman in the 1940s, she faces many obstacles along the way. She encounters racism, sexism, and a wide array of social barriers as she tries to break into the industry. However, her determination and talent ultimately win out, and she becomes a successful performer.

Stormy Weather is an ode to the golden age of African American musical performers. It shows the incredible amount of talent and creativity that African American artists brought to the entertainment industry during a time when they were often marginalized and discriminated against. The movie is a testament to the power of art to transcend boundaries and bring people together.

Aside from the outstanding musical performances, the movie is also well-known for its incredible dance scenes. The film features some of the best dancers of the time, including Bill Robinson, who was famous for his intricate "stair dance." The choreography is stunning, with the dancers moving in perfect synchronization and rhythm. The dance sequences are absolutely captivating, and they are a true testament to the incredible skill of the performers.

Overall, Stormy Weather is a movie that is both entertaining and important from a historical standpoint. It showcases the amazing talent of African American performers and provides a glimpse into the social and cultural climate of the early 1940s. It is a timeless masterpiece that remains relevant and powerful to this day.

Stormy Weather is a 1943 music movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 18 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3.