Second Chorus

Set against the vibrant backdrop of a college campus, "Second Chorus" is a delightful romantic comedy that showcases the talents of Fred Astaire and Paulette Goddard in a charming tale of love, rivalry, and perseverance. The story revolves around two charismatic trumpeters, Danny O'Neill (Fred Astaire) and Hank Taylor (Artie Shaw), who have been causing a stir with their musical talents as members of the college band, the Perennials. However, their musical prowess is not the only thing that sets them apart. Both Danny and Hank are also enrolled in college, and their grades are, to put it mildly, less than stellar. Seven years have passed, and despite numerous failed exams, they remain in college, often just barely managing to scrape by. Their academic struggles become the object of ridicule and teasing from their fellow students and instructors, with many wondering why these two talented musicians are still stuck in such a state. The arrival of Ellen Miller (Paulette Goddard) as the new band manager sets off a chain of events that will change the dynamics of the group and the lives of Danny and Hank. Ellen is intelligent, charming, and a bit of a firecracker, and it's no surprise that both Danny and Hank take an immediate liking to her. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that both men are deeply smitten with Ellen, and a heated rivalry begins to brew between them. As Danny and Hank compete for Ellen's affections, their attempts to one-up each other often result in chaos and hilarity. They engage in a series of ridiculous stunts, attempting to impress Ellen with their musical virtuosity and wit. Meanwhile, they also try to outdo each other in their efforts to get the other man fired from the band. The banter and repartee that fly back and forth between them are clever and often laugh-out-loud funny, making for a delightful and entertaining watching experience. Despite the lighthearted tone of the movie, "Second Chorus" also touches on some deeper themes. The pressures of academic failure and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity are highlighted through the characters of Danny and Hank. Their ongoing struggles with their studies serve as a reminder that even the most talented individuals can face challenges and setbacks in their pursuit of higher education. Throughout the film, Fred Astaire shines in his role as Danny O'Neill, bringing his trademark wit, charm, and charisma to the part. Paulette Goddard, meanwhile, is perfectly cast as Ellen Miller, capturing the character's intelligence, spirit, and determination. The chemistry between Astaire and Goddard is undeniable, and their romance is at the heart of the movie's enduring charm. One of the standout features of "Second Chorus" is its wonderful period setting. The film was released in 1940, and the movie captures the spirit of a bygone era with its vintage clothes, hairstyles, and campus life. The musical numbers, featuring the talented band and soloists, are also a highlight, showcasing the talents of the cast and adding to the movie's overall nostalgic charm. Ultimately, "Second Chorus" is a delightful, engaging romantic comedy that will have audiences smiling and humming the tunes long after the credits roll. With its charming cast, clever dialogue, and lively musical numbers, this film is a joy to watch, and its timeless themes of love, perseverance, and the pursuit of academic excellence make it a movie that continues to captivate audiences to this day.