Watch When's Your Birthday
- Passed
- 1937
- 1 hr 15 min
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5.5 (211)
When's Your Birthday is a classic comedy film released in 1937, starring the popular comedian Joe E. Brown, Marian Marsh, and Fred Keating. The movie is an adaptation of a Broadway musical revue, which showcases Brown's quick wit, slapstick comedy, and musical performances by his co-stars. The plot of the movie revolves around a hapless small-town barber, Harmon Jones (Joe E. Brown), who dreams of becoming a famous songwriter. He travels to New York City to test his songs with a big-time producer, Bob Walker (Fred Keating), who agrees to give him a chance but only if he can come up with a hit song in 24 hours. Harmon teams up with the lovely secretary of the producer, Margaret (Marian Marsh), a woman with a beautiful voice, and together they embark on a zany and eventful journey across the city, trying to come up with the perfect tune.
Amidst this backdrop of music and comedy, the film also manages to touch upon some serious themes, such as the corrupt practices of the music industry and the exploitation of aspiring artists. The movie also gives an insight into the golden age of Hollywood and its musical extravaganzas during the late 1930s.
Joe E. Brown delivers an impeccable performance as Harmon Jones, a clumsy and naive character, who is always bursting with enthusiasm and optimism, despite his failures. Brown's impeccable comic timing and physical humor add a perfect touch of hilarity to the movie. His on-screen chemistry with co-star Marian Marsh is charming and endearing, and their duets are a delight to watch.
Marian Marsh, who plays the role of secretary and aspiring singer Margaret, is equally impressive in her portrayal of a smart and talented woman, who is not afraid to take risks to achieve her dreams. Her singing is simply mesmerizing, and her solo performances, including the opening number "When's Your Birthday?" and the hilarious "Been Floating Down the Old Green River," are highlights of the film.
Fred Keating, who essays the role of Bob Walker, the flamboyant music producer, also delivers a noteworthy performance. His character is suave, cunning, and sarcastic, and he brings an edge to the film's otherwise light-hearted and cheerful tone.
The film's direction by Harry Beaumont is praiseworthy, as he cleverly weaves music, comedy, romance, and drama into an entertaining tapestry. The musical numbers, choreographed by Sammy Lee, are visually stunning and showcase the talents of the cast and crew. The set designs and costumes by Edwin B. Willis and Adrian, respectively, add to the movie's glamorous and luxurious feel.
Overall, When's Your Birthday is an entertaining and heartwarming movie filled with music, comedy, and romance. The film is a perfect representation of the Golden Age of Hollywood, with its catchy tunes, witty one-liners, and charming characters. Joe E. Brown is at his best in this classic piece of cinema, and his fans are sure to enjoy his antics in this timeless comedy.
When's Your Birthday is a 1937 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 15 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.5.