Something to Sing About

Something to Sing About is a 1937 musical drama film that tells the story of a down-on-his-luck Broadway star named Terry Rooney (played by James Cagney) who is approached by a talent scout (played by William Frawley) and offered a contract to star in Hollywood films. Despite opposition from his fiancée (played by Evelyn Daw) and his Broadway boss, Terry decides to take the opportunity to break into the movies and leave New York City behind.

However, things don't go as smoothly as Terry had hoped. When he arrives in Hollywood, he is met with a series of mishaps and struggles to adapt to the new way of working in the movie industry. He also finds himself caught in the middle of a love triangle when he falls for the talent scout's wife (played by Mona Barrie), who is unhappy in her marriage.

As Terry tries to navigate his new life in Hollywood, he faces both professional and personal challenges. He encounters difficult directors, jealous coworkers, and a rival gangster who wants to exploit Terry's connections in the entertainment industry. Meanwhile, he must also deal with the consequences of his growing feelings for the talent scout's wife and the guilt and loyalty he feels towards his fiancée back in New York.

Throughout the film, the audience is treated to a series of musical numbers and dance sequences, showcasing the talents of the cast. Cagney, in particular, demonstrates his impressive singing and dancing skills, as he performs upbeat numbers like "The Darktown Strutters' Ball" and "I Know the Feeling." The film also features a memorable song-and-dance routine performed by Cagney and Barrie to the tune of "The Cat and the Fiddle."

Something to Sing About offers a glimpse into the world of Hollywood in the 1930s, with its glamorous movie sets, high-pressure studio executives, and cut-throat competition among actors. It also explores themes of love, loyalty, and the price of fame, as Terry must decide what he truly wants in life and whether he is willing to sacrifice his integrity and relationships for success in the entertainment industry.

Overall, Something to Sing About is a charming and engaging musical drama that showcases the talents of its cast and offers a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era of Hollywood. It is a must-see for fans of classic Hollywood films, as well as anyone who appreciates great music and dance.