Broadway Melody of 1936

The Broadway Melody of 1936 was designed as the first of many annual follow-ups to MGM's early-talkie triumph Broadway Melody (1929). Jack Benny is atypically cast as a Walter Winchell type who carries on a feud with Broadway producer Robert Taylor. Into this fray comes Taylor's childhood sweetheart Eleanor Powell, who wants to play a role in Taylor's upcoming production. Already under fire from Benny for exhibiting favoritism, Taylor says no. Powell gets into the show anyway, disguising herself as a celebrated Parisian stage star. The film's song highlights (one of them sung by Robert Taylor!) include I've Got a Feeling You're Fooling, Broadway Rhythm, and a holdover from the original Broadway Melody, You Are My Lucky Star. Spotlighted in several numbers is the song 'n' dance team of Buddy and Vilma Ebsen.~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide