Sun Valley Serenade

Sun Valley Serenade is a 1941 musical film featuring a star-studded cast that includes three-time Olympic champion Sonja Henie, actor-singer John Payne, and bandleader Glenn Miller.

The movie opens in New York City, where the Glenn Miller Orchestra is recording a new number, "Chattanooga Choo Choo." The band's piano player is Ted Scott (played by Payne), who is also the romantic lead of the film. Franklin Pangborn plays the band's manager, Nifty Allen, who sets up an engagement for the band at the Sun Valley ski resort in Idaho.

When the band arrives in Sun Valley, they are welcomed by the hotel manager, Mr. Johnson (played by Raymond Walburn), who puts them up in lavish accommodations. The band is slated to perform at the resort for a week, during which they encounter the Johnnie Davis Orchestra, a rival big band led by the handsome and charming Johnnie Davis (played by Milton Berle). Ted falls in love with Vivian Dawn (played by Henie), a Norwegian Olympic skater who is working at the resort as a ski instructor.

Ted's pursuit of Vivian is complicated by her relationship with Phil Corey (played by Cesar Romero), her skating partner and former beau. Meanwhile, Johnnie Davis sets his sights on Connie (played by Lynn Bari), the band's lead singer, and tries to woo her away from Ted and the Glenn Miller Orchestra.

The movie's central conflict arises when the band is asked to perform at a charity fundraiser for a children's hospital. The guest of honor is none other than Vivian Dawn, who is making a comeback after a serious injury she sustained while performing. The Glenn Miller Orchestra performs their hit song "Chattanooga Choo Choo," and Vivian and Phil delight the audience with a stunning skating performance.

Sun Valley Serenade is a delightful and entertaining movie that showcases the talents of its stars. Sonja Henie is a joy to watch as Vivian Dawn, displaying both her skating prowess and her acting abilities. John Payne is a likable and charming leading man, and Glenn Miller and his orchestra provide the toe-tapping musical numbers that made them famous. The film also features guest appearances by the Nicholas Brothers, a popular tap-dancing duo of the time.

The movie's setting at the Sun Valley ski resort is picturesque and idyllic, providing a perfect backdrop for the romantic and musical hijinks that ensue. The film's romantic plotlines are engaging and well-executed, and the musical performances are energetic and lively.

One of the highlights of Sun Valley Serenade is the performance of the song "In the Mood," which became a big hit for Glenn Miller and his orchestra. The scene features a long sequence of skiers and ice skaters performing to the infectious tune, creating a visual spectacle that must have been thrilling for audiences of the time.

All in all, Sun Valley Serenade is a delightful and entertaining film that captures the spirit of the times. Its combination of romantic comedy, music, and winter sports makes for a unique and enjoyable viewing experience that will leave audiences tapping their feet and humming along to the tunes.