Manhattan Merry-Go-Round

Manhattan Merry-Go-Round is a musical comedy from 1937, directed by Charles Reisner and produced by Walter Wanger. The movie stars Phil Regan, Leo Carrillo, and Ann Dvorak.

The story revolves around the Plaza Hotel's radio station, WBN, and its quest to stay on top of the ratings. The station's general manager, J.P. Courtney, played by Leo Carrillo, is a ruthless businessman who will do anything to keep the station's sponsors happy. This includes firing popular radio personality Bill Delaney, played by Phil Regan, because his singing style doesn't fit the station's image.

After losing his job, Delaney teams up with fellow unemployed singer Joan Whelan, played by Ann Dvorak, and they decide to start their own radio station. With the help of a group of street musicians, they create their own unique sound, which becomes an instant hit with listeners.

Meanwhile, Courtney realizes that he made a mistake by firing Delaney and tries to lure him back to WBN. But Delaney and his new station are gaining more and more listeners every day, making it harder for Courtney to regain his former position as the top radio station in Manhattan.

As the competition between the two stations heats up, Delaney and Whelan fall in love, and the street musicians become the talk of the town. The climax of the movie comes during a live broadcast from the roof of the Plaza Hotel, where the two stations compete head to head, with the winner taking all.

Manhattan Merry-Go-Round is a fun and entertaining musical that showcases the talents of its cast. Phil Regan, who was a popular singer in the 1930s, is charming as the leading man, and his singing is amazing. Ann Dvorak is equally talented, and her chemistry with Regan is palpable.

Leo Carrillo is excellent as the antagonist, bringing a level of nuance to his role that elevates the character beyond a simple caricature. The scenes between him and Regan are some of the best in the movie, and their mutual dislike for each other is hilarious.

The musical numbers are catchy and well choreographed, with the street musicians stealing the show with their unique blend of instruments and sounds. The movie also has some great comedic moments, with the street musicians providing some much-needed levity throughout.

One of the highlights of the movie is the iconic scene where the street musicians play on the back of a moving truck, dodging traffic and narrowly avoiding collisions. It's a testament to the skill of the filmmakers that they were able to pull off such a feat in the days before CGI and green screens.

Overall, Manhattan Merry-Go-Round is a delightful movie that will have you tapping your feet and humming along to the soundtrack. It's a timeless classic that showcases the best of 1930s Hollywood and the golden age of musicals.