Bethlane

What do you notice about the interaction between the characters in these two scenes? Please give specific examples. Canoe Scene: Flirting, Coy/Coquette, Innocence. Scene #2- class segregation, intimidation If you have seen either or both of these actors in other films or television shows, please share your perceptions about them. I've seen most of their movies, and they pretty much follow the same formula with an opera musical style. You know what you are getting when you watch their movies. What do these clips tell you about the male/female relationships as they are depicted in the films during this era? Traditional male/female roles, strong heroic man rescues beautiful helpless female, in America you can marry up! What norms might you expect are supported under the Hollywood Film Code? Morality, purity, honesty, hard work ethic, good clean fun!

Musicals in general, especially Depression era musicals, were produced to entice moviegoers to spend hard-earned money to be entertained--to forget their problems for a little while. They wanted to be transported to another time and place where things always worked out for the best and they could leave with a new song to hum on the way home. This was not always their reality. If the movie reflected real life, they could keep their money and stay home!

Musicals bring such joy to my life. They have an impact on our culture and education, particularly in the arts. They lift up, inspire, and motivate us to a happier place. My first musical memory is the Wizard of Oz. We watched it on TV every year. Now we can watch anytime we want and as much as we want! Thank you TCM for making musicals and more available to us!