Michigan Theater to screen classic musical "Gold Diggers of 1935"
The "Gold Diggers" movies — there were five — were basically lightly-plotted excuses for the Warner Bros. studio to stage elaborate musical numbers. This is the third "Gold Diggers" movie and features many of the elements the series is known for — in particular, dance numbers staged by Busby Berkeley with lots of chorus girls.
Watch a trailer of the film:
In addition to the choreography, things that made the "Gold Diggers" movies (and other Warner musicals) memorable were a likable cast and well-written songs by Harry Warren and Al Dubin.
In this edition, stars from the Warner stable include Dick Powell (naturally), Gloria Stuart, Alice Brady and Adolphe Menjou. The movie really only features three songs, but one is the climactic "Lullaby of Broadway" — a great song, presented here as a huge production number with a surprisingly dark twist. As if it matters, the plot concerns interactions between staff and guests at a high-class resort.
"Gold Diggers of 1935" screens at 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 14 at the Michigan, 603 E. Liberty St. Regular Michigan Theater prices apply: $9 regular; $7 students, seniors and children under 12: $6.50 for Michigan Theater members.
Bob Needham is director of entertainment content for AnnArbor.com. He can be reached at bobneedham@annarbor.com or 734-623-2541. Follow him on Twitter @bobneedham.