TCM! - I've got this film you need to show.

 When I first ran across this photograph, it caught my eye because two of my favorite people, Reginald Owen and Frank Morgan, were in it.  And there is Virginia Bruce, as well, all decked out in a gorgeous gown and fancy hairdo.  I thought it was a publicity shot for The Great Ziegfeld (1936), since Owens, Morgan and Bruce were all in it, but it is named on the back as being Escapade (1935).  Then, looking up the movie, I found that William Powell and Luise Rainer star in both movies as well!  What?  

It did take a long time to film Ziegfeld, from April 8th to December 1935.  Escapade filming began at the same time, April 3rd, but was wrapped up in May.  Did the studio make Escapade to build up fan interest in Ziegfeld, a much larger production?  Use the core cast for both movies while having to wait out the year to film all the other performers?  Sounds 'bout right.  It is interesting that Escapade has a 7.3 rating on IMDB, while Ziegfeld has the lower score of 6.6. 

I would love to see the movie but, of course, it is not available anywhere.  Shuckie-darns!  

Okay, enlarging the good folks so you can see them ... Reginald Owen.

Mady Christians ... wonder how early she had to be at the studio for that hairdo!

Frank Morgan ... with a full beard and dark hair for a change.

Virginia Bruce ... knitting away.  The lady has been on a sound stage many a time.

I do not know who this gent is.  Evidently a fan of Ms. Bruce.  Herringbone jacket, striped shirt and checkered tie - my.  Would love to see the outfit in color.  Anyone know who he is?  

Not the Best Sea Duty

Ah, those lucky young men that ended up in Antarctica for their tour of duty... poor, poor souls.  

TCM is showing The Secret Land (1948) until March 31st, if you are so inclined to watch military exercises in Antarctica.  This documentary is well done, and it is always great to listen to then Commander Robert Montgomery.  It's just not everyone's cup of tea.  

I just noticed something checking out IMDB --- the director's name is Orville O. Dull!  Too much.  

Sorry, don't handle colds very well!

 Back in the day, a cold was almost nothing to handle.  Now I'm just happy to survive another day.

Meanwhile ... Mister Roberts (1955) has always been a favorite of mine.  Starring four excellent actors, I'm most appreciative of Mr. Cagney's effort as the dictatorial Captain.  And I'll always love just anything Mr. Powell contributes on the big screen.

Jack Lemmon, James Cagney, Henry Fonda and William Powell in Mister Roberts

Meanwhile ... that's all I can handle for now.  Hoping life returns next week!

Article written by Mr. Montgomery and published in the July 27, 1940 issue of Collier's.

 

Born in Pittsburgh ... Who'da Thunk it?

Adolphe Menjou, suave, debonair and a tailor-made scene-stealer, was born February 18, 1890.  When changing studios during his career, it required trucks to take his wardrobe with him.    

Dapper, well-dressed, no matter his age.  

... And hamming it up as Nicolai Nicoleff in Gold Diggers of 1935.