Year: 1934
Director: Bubsy Berkeley
Country: US
Language: English
Bubsy Berkeley (Nov 1895 - March 1976) was a film director and musical choreographer who planned elaborate musical numbers that involved complex geometric patterns. He is best known for his four back-to-back hits for Warner Bros; 42nd Street, Footlight Parade, Gold Diggers of 1933 and Dames. The latter picture is what I shall review today.
A multimillionaire decides to boycott "filthy" forms of entertainment such as Broadway shows.
Released in September 1934, just a few months after the Motion Picture Production Code, Dames presents a playful criticism towards the encroaching era of stifling morality. Equal parts comedy and musical, most of the supporting cast gets a chance to shine in this picture. Keeler, Powell, and Blondell show of their talent for dancing, while Hugh Herbert, Guy Kibbee and Zasu Pitts are allowed enough screen-time to tickle our funny bones.
The plot isn't exactly feminist friendly, as Blondell's main role is to be a sex trophy and not have much agency in her "choices". This is a Bubsy Berkely musical however, and lavishly cheorographed musical numbers is what Dames does best. The Girl at the Ironing Board is a looney yet boisterous number and I Only Have Eyes for You has some of the most memorable shots ever put to film. Its a grand flick!
Dames is a sexy sleek picture that is memorable in more than one way. It pleased crowds in 1933 and I have no doubt cinephiles take great joy in watching it today. Though regarded as a lesser Bubsy entry, I must give it my utmost respect.
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