SYNOPSIS: "Second Chorus" (1940) is a vibrant musical comedy featuring the talents of Fred Astaire and Paulette Goddard in leading roles. The film centers on two competitive trumpet players, Danny O'Neill (Fred Astaire) and Hank Taylor (Burgess Meredith), who not only vie for the affection of their manager and mutual love interest, Ellen Miller (Paulette Goddard), but also strive to outdo each other in their musical careers.

Directed by H.C. Potter and produced by Boris Morros, the film showcases Astaire's effortless dancing and Meredith's comedic timing as they navigate their romantic and professional rivalries. The screenplay by Frank Cavett and Elaine Ryan blends witty banter with musical performances, highlighting the duo's energetic dance routines and their determination to succeed in the competitive world of music. As their friendship and ambitions are put to the test, "Second Chorus" delivers a mix of romance, humor, and dazzling musical numbers, making it a memorable entry in the Golden Age of Hollywood musicals.

PLOT Spoiler Alert: Second Chorus (1940) opens with two college trumpet players, Danny O’Neill and Hank Taylor, who have been stalling their graduation to continue leading their college band, "O’Neill’s Perennials." Despite their rivalry, the two share a close friendship, and their band is a hit among their peers.

Their prolonged academic careers finally catch up with them, and they are both forced to graduate. Faced with the reality of leaving college life behind, they aim to make a name for themselves in the professional music world. Their first step towards this goal involves hiring Ellen Miller, a talented and beautiful young woman, to be their manager. Ellen is also an accomplished dancer and has a charming presence that attracts both men.

Ellen, though focused on her job, becomes the object of Danny and Hank’s affections. As they compete for her attention, their rivalry intensifies but also provides comic relief. Ellen, however, remains professional and is more interested in helping them succeed in their musical careers than in their romantic advances.

The trio lands a significant opportunity when they meet Artie Shaw (playing himself), a famous bandleader. Artie is impressed by their talent but sees potential issues in their rivalry and lack of professional experience. He offers Ellen a job as his secretary, recognizing her organizational skills and potential to grow in the music industry. This creates tension between Danny and Hank as they fear losing her to a bigger opportunity.

Danny, determined to prove himself and win Ellen’s heart, practices relentlessly and perfects his trumpet skills. His efforts pay off, and he impresses Artie Shaw enough to secure a spot in his band. This achievement causes further friction between Danny and Hank, who feels left behind.

As Danny’s career takes off, he becomes more confident and gains Ellen’s respect. Hank, on the other hand, struggles with jealousy but eventually realizes that his competitive nature was holding him back. He decides to support Danny and focus on his own growth rather than continuing the rivalry.

The film culminates in a spectacular performance featuring both Danny and Artie Shaw’s band, highlighting the success that comes from collaboration and mutual respect. Ellen, now recognizing Danny’s sincerity and talent, starts to reciprocate his feelings. The film concludes with the trio finding professional success and personal happiness, solidifying their friendship and romantic bonds.

PRODUCTION: "Second Chorus" was produced by Boris Morros, a seasoned producer known for his work in musical films, and directed by H.C. Potter, who brought his expertise in blending comedy and music on screen. The screenplay was crafted by a team of writers including Frank Cavett, Elaine Ryan, and Ian McLellan Hunter, ensuring a balance of witty dialogue and engaging plot developments. The film's music was composed by Artie Shaw, a renowned bandleader and clarinetist of the era, who also makes a notable appearance as himself in the film.

Fred Astaire, already celebrated for his impeccable dancing and musical talents, delivered a standout performance in "Second Chorus." His ability to seamlessly integrate comedy with intricate dance routines added depth to his character and showcased his versatility as a performer. Paulette Goddard, known for her charm and acting prowess, complemented Astaire perfectly, creating on-screen chemistry that became a highlight of the film. Their interactions brought a dynamic energy to the narrative, enhancing the romantic and comedic elements of the story.

The production of "Second Chorus" benefited from the expertise of its cast and crew, leveraging Astaire and Goddard's star power to create a captivating musical comedy that entertained audiences with its blend of music, dance, and romantic rivalry.

RELEASE: "Second Chorus," released on December 3, 1940 garnered mixed critical reviews. While Fred Astaire's performance in both dance and trumpet playing was widely praised, critics noted the film's predictable plot and narrative shortcomings. Variety, in its review, highlighted Astaire's ability to elevate the film despite its weaknesses, acknowledging the charisma he brought to his role. Paulette Goddard's presence added to the film's appeal, though some critics felt the storyline did not fully utilize her talents.

Despite the critical reception, "Second Chorus" did not achieve significant commercial success at the box office. The film's strengths lay in its musical numbers and Astaire's performance, which continued to attract audiences interested in Hollywood musicals. Astaire's contributions to the genre solidified the film's place in classic Hollywood musical history, despite its initial reception. Today, "Second Chorus" remains appreciated for its musical sequences and as a showcase for Fred Astaire's talents, underscoring his legacy in American film.

CAST:

• Fred Astaire as Danny O’Neill

• Paulette Goddard as Ellen Miller

• Artie Shaw as Himself

• Burgess Meredith as Hank Taylor

• Charles Butterworth as Lester Chisholm

• Frank Melton as Stu

• Jimmy Conlin as Mr. Dunn

• Don Brodie as Clerk

• Marjorie Kane as Secretary

• Joan Barclay as Receptionist

• Willa Pearl Curtis as Scrubwoman
  

CREW:

• Director: H.C. Potter

• Producer: Boris Morros

• Writers: Elaine Ryan, Ian McLellan Hunter, Johnny Mercer (screenplay), Frank Caveat (story)

• Cinematography by Theodor Sparkuhl

• Edited by Jack Dennis

• Music: Artie Shaw

• Art Direction: Boris Leven
  

Production Company: Paramount Pictures
Distributor: Paramount Pictures

Release Date: December 3, 1940
Country of Origin: United States
Running Time: 84 minutes
Budget: N/A
Box Office Return: N/A

IMDB Rating =  5.7 / 10

TRIVIA:

• Fred Astaire took trumpet lessons to ensure a realistic portrayal of his character, though professional trumpeter Bobby Hackett performed the actual trumpet solos.

• The film is notable as one where Fred Astaire does not have a significant dance partner; instead, the focus is on his musical and comedic skills.

• Artie Shaw’s involvement added an authentic jazz element, with his band's performances being highlights of the film.

• Fred Astaire later referred to "Second Chorus" as the worst film he ever made, while Artie Shaw was put off film acting after this experience.

• During the film's production, Ginger Rogers won an Academy Award for Best Actress for "Kitty Foyle" (1940), prompting Astaire to send her a telegram simply reading "Ouch."

• The song and dance number "I Ain't Hep to That Step But I'll Dig It" was shot in one take after rigorous rehearsals, marking the last time Astaire did a routine in one take.

• Burgess Meredith, who played a role in the film, would later marry co-star Paulette Goddard in real life.

• The Oscar-nominated song "Would You Like to Be the Love of My Life" was written over lunch, with composer Artie Shaw initially hesitant to share it with the studio.

• "Second Chorus" was Fred Astaire's first film for Paramount.

• The failure of the original copyright holder to renew the film's copyright resulted in it falling into public domain.

• Burgess Meredith appeared in several Twilight Zone episodes (Time Enough at Last, The Obsolete Man, Printer’s Devil, Mr. Dingle, the Strong), he also played the Penguin in the 1960s Batman TV series, and was Rocky's fight trainer, Mickey Goldmill, in the Rocky series.

• The musical number "Me and the Ghost Upstairs" was dropped because it was considered too slow and did not fit well with the overall pacing and tone of the film. 

"Second Chorus" remains a delightful musical comedy of the 1940s, known for its lively musical numbers, charming romance, and the talents of its stars Fred Astaire and Paulette Goddard, continuing to entertain audiences with its infectious energy and memorable performances.