With the name of Busby Berkeley attached to it, it comes as a surprise that Garden of the Moon, while a musical, contains none of the cinematic choreography for which the director/choreographer is famed. There are no big production numbers involving scores of girls, no overhead shots and precision drill-team routines. However, that doesn't mean that the musical numbers don't have flair; it's simply of a quieter kind. Mostly band numbers, they're shot with an eye to keeping the camera engaged, often swooping across to take in individual players and featuring enough cut-aways to keep visual interest. Garden also benefits from a fine Harry Warren score; it's nothing to write home about, but it's tuneful and diverting and each of the songs is a welcome respite from the silly standard-issue plot. A more dynamic leading actor would have perhaps made this film something other than the minor little pleasure that it is. John Payne is fine and sounds good; he simply lacks the real star charisma that the part demands. Pat O'Brien is better, although he tries a bit too hard throughout, and Margaret Lindsay is a very amiable leading lady.
Garden of the Moon
12.99
In Stock
Editorial Reviews
Product Details
| Release Date: | 09/02/2011 |
|---|---|
| UPC: | 0883316353912 |
| Original Release: | 1938 |
| Source: | Warner Archives |
| Time: | 1:34:00 |
| Sales rank: | 46,634 |