Watch Wonder Man

In the 1945 musical comedy film Wonder Man, Danny Kaye plays the dual roles of nightclub entertainer Buzzy Bellew and his twin brother, Professor Henry Bellew, a stuffy academic. When Buzzy witnesses a murder, he is killed by the culprits, but his spirit rises from the grave and inhabits the body of his nerdy sibling, whom he proceeds to teach how to be more outgoing and romantic in order to win over a beautiful librarian, played by Virginia Mayo.

The film is full of classic Kaye-style antics, including his signature fast-talking humor and physical comedy, as well as some impressive special effects for the time. The scene where Buzzy's ghost emerges from his own body and floats up through the ceiling is especially noteworthy. However, the film also features several musical numbers, showcasing the talents of both Kaye and his female co-stars, Vera-Ellen and Virginia Mayo.

Kaye's performance is a tour de force, as he manages to make both of his characters distinct and memorable. As Buzzy, he is brash and confident, with a gift for gab and a natural flair for showmanship. As Henry, he is bumbling and bookish, with a tendency to overanalyze and complicate things. Yet as the film progresses, we see that both brothers have something to offer and can learn from each other.

Mayo and Ellen are both charismatic and beautiful, with Ellen's dancing skills on full display in several impressive numbers. Mayo's character is a bit more reserved, but she has a spark of wit and playfulness that makes her a perfect match for Kaye's Buzzy.

Overall, Wonder Man is a light and entertaining musical comedy, with plenty of laughs, songs, and dancing. While it may not be one of Kaye's most well-known films, it is still a delightful showcase for his talents and a fun reminder of the golden age of Hollywood musicals.

Wonder Man is a 1945 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 38 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.