I love classic Hollywood films but among my least favorites are musicals. It isn't that I dislike them all, but a lot of them seem alike to me. However, it was nice to watch "Copacobana", as it was very different--mostly because Groucho Marx was cast in the lead (and without his brothers). His witty remarks and silly shtick kept my interest, though as often is the case, my attention waned a bit after what felt like one or two songs too many from his co-star, Carmen Miranda. Again, I point out that this is my taste I am talking about here--you might love lots and lots and lots of songs.
"Copacabana" begins with Groucho and his fiancée, Carmen, behind in their rent and looking for work. She is a singer and he is her dopey agent. Eventually, Groucho is able to convince the owner of the Copacabana (Steve Cochran) to give her an impromptu audition. However, to put over the deal, Groucho talks too much and lies so much that now Cochran wants to see Groucho's OTHER client--a French chanteuse. However, there is no other client--and when he gets a contract for both performers, Groucho is able to talk Carmen into pretending to be both singers! To disguise this, Carmen wears a blonde wig and veil when she is the French lady. What happens next? Well, tune in and see for yourself.
Aside from the humor, Groucho actually sings a number like no one else could have done. It's pretty cute and I love the way this number was presented. You'll have to see it for yourself. Carmen was as you'd expect--full of peppy songs and a decent sidekick. While none of it is brilliant, it is entertaining and fun--and worth your time.
"Copacabana" begins with Groucho and his fiancée, Carmen, behind in their rent and looking for work. She is a singer and he is her dopey agent. Eventually, Groucho is able to convince the owner of the Copacabana (Steve Cochran) to give her an impromptu audition. However, to put over the deal, Groucho talks too much and lies so much that now Cochran wants to see Groucho's OTHER client--a French chanteuse. However, there is no other client--and when he gets a contract for both performers, Groucho is able to talk Carmen into pretending to be both singers! To disguise this, Carmen wears a blonde wig and veil when she is the French lady. What happens next? Well, tune in and see for yourself.
Aside from the humor, Groucho actually sings a number like no one else could have done. It's pretty cute and I love the way this number was presented. You'll have to see it for yourself. Carmen was as you'd expect--full of peppy songs and a decent sidekick. While none of it is brilliant, it is entertaining and fun--and worth your time.