"Swanee River" purports to be the life story of Stephen Foster, the famous 19th century composer. However, it often gets the facts wrong and consists of too many song and dance numbers, many of which are VERY problematic here in the 21st century. So, on one hand it's just bad history and on the other, it's pretty offensive and has too many song and dance numbers. As a result, Don Ameche is wasted.
The story begins with Foster being a penniless wannabe composer. It follows him with successful songs such as "Old Black Joe", "Camp Town Races" and many other familiar hits. Ultimately, he dies young and folks are sad. But along the way, the story gets too many facts wrong. Additionally, with all the minstrel numbers (featuring Al Jolson), it's not only not much fun but pretty offensive as well.
To me, this is exactly the sort of song and dance film that just doesn't age well...not just because of the black-face numbers but because it's hard maintaining the story with so many disruptions.
The story begins with Foster being a penniless wannabe composer. It follows him with successful songs such as "Old Black Joe", "Camp Town Races" and many other familiar hits. Ultimately, he dies young and folks are sad. But along the way, the story gets too many facts wrong. Additionally, with all the minstrel numbers (featuring Al Jolson), it's not only not much fun but pretty offensive as well.
To me, this is exactly the sort of song and dance film that just doesn't age well...not just because of the black-face numbers but because it's hard maintaining the story with so many disruptions.