Reaching for the Moon

Reaching for the Moon is an engaging, light-hearted romantic comedy and musical that was first released in 1930. This esteemed production was helmed by director Edmund Goulding and starred the flamboyant Hollywood icon, Douglas Fairbanks, and the petite and charming Bebe Daniels. With its blend of romance, humor, and music, the film provides an appealing snapshot of the exhilarating moment in cinematic history of the transitional phase from silent cinema into the world of the 'talkies'.

The film revolves around the wealthy and carefree character, Larry Day portrayed by Douglas Fairbanks, whose playful charisma and dynamic athletic physicality lights up the screen. Larry is a successful Wall Street businessman, who is more accustomed to the fluctuations of the stock market than the intricate nuances of romance. His life of stocks and investments takes an unexpected turn when he meets the distinguished and beautiful character portrayed by Bebe Daniels, which adds an intriguing romantic twist to the storyline.

Setting out on a transatlantic journey, Larry plans to impress Daniels' character with his wealth and lavish style, reflecting the opulence of the 1930s era. However, much to his surprise and chagrin, he soon comes to the realization that love is not a commodity that can be bought or analyzed like the stocks he is so fond of. How he tries to navigate this new territory of emotions and affection creates the humorous and romantic heart of the story.

Bebe Daniels, with her graceful presence and poised acting, makes for the perfect counterpart to Fairbanks' exuberant Larry. Her character portrayal classifies her not merely as an object of Larry's affection but makes her a strong and significant role in the narrative. She adds depth and charm to the portrayal of her character, enchanting audiences with her refined elegance and captivating demeanor.

Supporting Fairbanks and Daniels is a robust cast of colorful characters, who add another dimension to the movie's plot. They provide a series of comic reliefs and surprising twists, ensuring the pace of the story never slows down. The film also highlights the significant societal trends and lifestyle of the Jazz Age, offering fascinating historical context that further deepens audience engagement.

Musically, the film shines bright with its compelling score adding a delightful dimension to the overall narrative. It features a variety of songs, many of which were composed by the famous duo, Buddy G. DeSylva, Lew Brown, and Ray Henderson. Music beautifully underlines the themes and emotions explored throughout the film, smoothly transposing from high-spirited songs that capture the fun and thrill of the roaring 20s to slower pieces that perfectly encapsulate deeper emotions.

Technically, the movie is a marvel of its time as it beautifully showcases the classic aesthetics of Hollywood's early 1930s. From grand ships to posh interiors, the film takes you back in time with its intriguing sets that brilliantly reflect the lavish lifestyle of the elite. The costumes designed for the movie are also a true reflection of the times, capturing the intriguing fashion trends of the Jazz Age.

Adding to this, the film uses various innovative techniques of the time to smoothly transition from scene to scene, including effective use of montage and superimposition. Particularly impressive is the cinematography, that eloquently captures the grandeur of the set designs, the charm of the actors, and the overall ambiance of the film.

Throughout its runtime, Reaching for the Moon sets out to entertain, amuse and engage its audiences, providing a delicious mix of humor, romance, and music. With Douglas Fairbanks and Bebe Daniels powerfully leading the film, it encompasses an intriguing exploration of love’s joys and challenges, set against the backdrop of the glamorous 1930s. This film is not just a romantic comedy musical but also a charming historical representation of a bygone era. The film undeniably provides an exceptional viewing experience for those who appreciate classic cinema.