Despite being a little put off by the cheap-sounding title that didn't seem to fit with the plot summary, there were more than enough ingredients to 'Fashions of 1934' to still want to see it. William Powell and Bette Davis were great actors, having such an innovative choreographer like Busby Berkeley on board sounded even more fun and William Dieterle did do some great films, such as one of the best film versions of 'The Hunchback of Notre Dame'.
'Fashions of 1934' as an overall film was nowhere near as cheap as the title made it sound and is more interesting than the not completely interesting plot summary indicates. Like others have said, don't be fooled. 'Fashions of 1934' may not be a great film, but it was better than expected and it was interesting to see Powell and Davis in their only pairing and to see Powell in his last Warner Bros film before the move to MGM. All the film's interest points are well served.
Sure 'Fashions of 1934' could have been better. The story is paper thin and can be very silly, even when taking it for what it is, and contrived. Also starting off a little slow.
Have always found Hugh Herbert an acquired taste, sometimes he's fun and at other times he irritated. For me here he mugs too much to annoyance and some of the comedy feels forced as a result.
A lot is good though. Powell somehow manages to bring likeability to a character that sounds on paper the opposite of likeable. As well as sophistication, witty comic timing and urbane charm. Davis' role isn't as interesting and wouldn't have said no to her having more to do, but she is also sharp and glamorous to watch. Personally think that she looks good as a blond. Frank McHugh is hilarious in support, and the comedy is great fun with him delivering it. Nice to see Reginald Owen as well. Dieterle's direction is adept in depicting a setting that may be artificial but also elegant.
The unforgettable big musical number is the other reason to see 'Fashions of 1934' other than the cast. There is nothing quite like it out there and Berkeley's distinctively innovative, in a way that's extravagant without being over the top, choreography style is on display. The music itself is not as memorable but a lovely and entertaining listen. The main theme particularly. 'Fashions of 1934' is well made, especially those gleefully glamorous but frivolous fashions and the photography in the musical number which uses the choreography to full advantage. The script is good natured and witty and there is enough energy when the film gets going.
Concluding, enjoyable if not great. 7/10
'Fashions of 1934' as an overall film was nowhere near as cheap as the title made it sound and is more interesting than the not completely interesting plot summary indicates. Like others have said, don't be fooled. 'Fashions of 1934' may not be a great film, but it was better than expected and it was interesting to see Powell and Davis in their only pairing and to see Powell in his last Warner Bros film before the move to MGM. All the film's interest points are well served.
Sure 'Fashions of 1934' could have been better. The story is paper thin and can be very silly, even when taking it for what it is, and contrived. Also starting off a little slow.
Have always found Hugh Herbert an acquired taste, sometimes he's fun and at other times he irritated. For me here he mugs too much to annoyance and some of the comedy feels forced as a result.
A lot is good though. Powell somehow manages to bring likeability to a character that sounds on paper the opposite of likeable. As well as sophistication, witty comic timing and urbane charm. Davis' role isn't as interesting and wouldn't have said no to her having more to do, but she is also sharp and glamorous to watch. Personally think that she looks good as a blond. Frank McHugh is hilarious in support, and the comedy is great fun with him delivering it. Nice to see Reginald Owen as well. Dieterle's direction is adept in depicting a setting that may be artificial but also elegant.
The unforgettable big musical number is the other reason to see 'Fashions of 1934' other than the cast. There is nothing quite like it out there and Berkeley's distinctively innovative, in a way that's extravagant without being over the top, choreography style is on display. The music itself is not as memorable but a lovely and entertaining listen. The main theme particularly. 'Fashions of 1934' is well made, especially those gleefully glamorous but frivolous fashions and the photography in the musical number which uses the choreography to full advantage. The script is good natured and witty and there is enough energy when the film gets going.
Concluding, enjoyable if not great. 7/10