The Five Pennies

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User Ratings: 734
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Movie Info

The struggle for success and eventual triumph of jazz trumpeter Red Nichols is portrayed in this biographical drama. Nominated for several Academy Awards, the film includes many musical numbers and appearances by numerous real jazz musicians, including Louis Armstrong.

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Cast

Danny Kaye
as 'Red' Nichols
Barbara Bel Geddes
as Willa Stutsman
Bob Crosby
as Wil Paradise
Louis Armstrong
as Himself
Harry Guardino
as Tony Valani
Susan Gordon
as Dorothy Nichols at 6
Tuesday Weld
as Dorothy at 12 to 14
Valerie Allen
as Tommye Eden
Ray Anthony
as Jimmy Dorsey
Shelly Manne
as Dave Tough
Ray Daley
as Glenn Miller
Bobby Troup
as Arthur Schutt
Ray Daly Jr.
as Glenn Miller
Earl Barton
as Choreographer
Ned Glass
as Murray
Bob Hope
as Himself
Richard Shavelson
as Party
Blanche Sweet
as Bit
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Critic Reviews for The Five Pennies

All Critics (2) | Fresh (2)

  • The Five Pennies is a solidly crafted movie that glosses over a lot of the real history of jazz.

    Dec 16, 2013 | Rating: 3/5 | Full Review…

    Noel Murray

    The Dissolve

  • A bit of a sprightly-tragic mess, but if one doesn't try to sum up its parts, it's plenty entertaining in a nostalgic, old-movie way.

    Jan 2, 2006 | Rating: 2.5/4

    Peter Canavese

    Groucho Reviews
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Audience Reviews for The Five Pennies

  • May 21, 2008
    Nice Jazz drama. Kaye gives a good performance and nice cameos by Jazz greats.
    Anthony V Super Reviewer
  • Sep 12, 2007
    Not a typical Danny Kaye character, but a beautiful story of a family's struggles. And yes, Kaye still gets in a few laughs.
    Valerie G Super Reviewer
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