5. Show Boat (1936)
James Whale directs the stunning film, Show Boat that features a stirring rendition of “Ol’ Man River”, by the amazing Paul Robeson.
Following the life of the daughter of a river boat, Magnolia Hawks (the always stunning Irene Dunne), through all of her ups and downs. First Magnolia wishes to be a star on her families boat, much to the delight of her father Cap’n Andy Hawks (Charles Winninger) and her mother Parthy Ann (Helen Westley). But soon Magnolia finds love in the form of Allan Jones (Gaylord Ravenal), who sweeps her off her feet and into marriage bliss. Or so she thinks.
Also onboard the Cotton Blossom is Julie LaVerne (Helen Morgan) who is the ships leading actress who is passing as white although she is part African-American, and Joe (Paul Robeson) and his wife Queenie (the incomparable Hattie McDaniel).
A truly stirring musical brought to life by Whale who is more known for his contributions to horror with Frankenstein, Bride of Frankenstein and The Invisible Man, in Show Boat Whale proves that he can deliver the goods on musicals as well. His keen eye keeps the film focused and moving along at a great pace.
Irene Dunne is my favorite Golden Age actress and she crushes it in Show Boat. Dunne is given the opportunity to showcase her incredible singing voice, her impeccable comedic timing and her dramatic acting chops as well. Dunne brings her A-game throughout the picture.
Of course Show Boat really belongs to Paul Robeson, who makes the song “Ol’Man River” a timeless classic. He also is funny and has a commanding presence whenever he is on screen.
Show Boat sails onto the Criterion Collection with a stunning 4K scan that is very pleasing. Although at times the film shows its age, this is still a beautiful transfer that gives the 85 year old film new life.
Show Boat hits all the right notes with a solid audio track. And like the video, it does show its age at times, overall this is an outstanding track with clarity.
Show Boat sails onto blu-ray with a treasure trove of extras:
Commentary by Miles Krueger
Remembering James Whale: A nicely done new documentary about the acclaimed director.
Recognizing Race in Show Boat: A superb look at the film with Author Shana L. Redmond.
Paul Robeson: A Tribute to an Artist: An Academy Award winning documentary narrated by Sidney Pottier
Show Boat (1929): Over 30 minutes consisting of four performances from the first attempt to film Show Boat, the silent segments have commentary by Krueger.
Radio Plays: Two radio versions are presented one with Orson Welles as the narrator.
Show Boat is an incredible musical that deserves a place on your shelf.
Film: A
Video: A-
Audio: A-
Extras: A+
Overall: A