An outrageously bad musical celebration of life in the United States Army. The story, and it's a weak one, involves the unlikely prospect that World War I soldier George Murphy (as Jerry Jones) has fathered World War II soldier Ronald Reagan (as Johnny Jones), who wants Joan Leslie (as Eileen Dibble) to wait until the war is over. Most of the humor is derived from several "drag" routines. None of this falls into the category of "so bad it's good," however.
And, it's not all bad, either. Three cheers for Irving Berlin, who composed an excellent collection of songs. Highlights include Mr. Berlin's own endearing "Oh How I Hate to Get Up in the Morning", Kate Smith's rendering of the simple classic "God Bless America", and the rousing theme "This Is the Army, Mr. Jones". Berlin's soundtrack contains all the patriotism and inspiration lacking in the surrounding drivel. Thankfully, the good endures.
**** This Is the Army (7/29/43) Michael Curtiz ~ George Murphy, Ronald Reagan, Joan Leslie
And, it's not all bad, either. Three cheers for Irving Berlin, who composed an excellent collection of songs. Highlights include Mr. Berlin's own endearing "Oh How I Hate to Get Up in the Morning", Kate Smith's rendering of the simple classic "God Bless America", and the rousing theme "This Is the Army, Mr. Jones". Berlin's soundtrack contains all the patriotism and inspiration lacking in the surrounding drivel. Thankfully, the good endures.
**** This Is the Army (7/29/43) Michael Curtiz ~ George Murphy, Ronald Reagan, Joan Leslie