Release Date: Nov 7, 1941 Wide
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Average Rating: 3.6/5
User Ratings: 40
Rather shaky as history, Birth of the Blues delivers the goods in terms of entertainment, thanks to the unbeatable star combination of Bing Crosby and Mary Martin. Set in New Orleans in the 'teens, the film stars Crosby as clarinetist Jeff Lambert, who breaks away from a traditionalist orchestra to form his own jazz band. His partners in this endeavor are songstress Betty Lou Cobb (Martin) and trumpeter Memphis (Brian Donlevy), a character obviously meant to be a white-bread version of Louis
Nov 7, 1941 Wide
May 15, 2003
All Critics (7) | Top Critics (1) | Fresh (3) | Rotten (1) | DVD (1)
Dated, full of politically incorrect racial edges, but fun musically with Crosby starring.
A remarkable Bing Crosby vehicle that pays heartfelt homage to the creators and innovators of jazz... It seems almost like the first rock 'n roll movie...
Inane story but great music and one of the few chances to see Mary Martin in a lead film role.
February 12, 2012
Super Reviewer
pretty enjoyable film and an unfortunately forgotten treasure in the Bing Crosby library. well-written in typical 30s and 40s musical comedy style. entertaining characters, fun story, and some great early jazz/blues music.
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