Product: Stormy Weather [VHS] (1980)
Rating: 4.0
Now that's entertainment
The story is hokey, the leading man's performance is second rate but "Stormy Weather" is pure fun. Bill "Bojangles" Robinson may not be great shakes as an actor, but who cares? As a dancer he is unmatched and his skills are on full display here. And as they say on TV ads -- "but that's not all." Here too are the fabulous tap dancing duo The Nicholas Brothers for one amazing number and legendary jazz musicians Fats Waller and Cab Calloway and Robinson's co star, Lena Horne.Horne is simply gorgeous both visually and vocally, whether while singing the film's title song or playing Robinson's love interest. Also look for Dooley Wilson, best known as Bogey's piano-playing pal in "Casablanca.""Stormy Weather" is one of the best of the all African-American movies from the pre Civil Rights era.The joy of watching the movie is tempered somewhat by the realization that its stars did not get their due as a consequence of the institutionalized racism of the time.This edition cried out for some special features other than commentary by a film historian.The story line is trite but serviceable as a vehicle for the songs and dances.What a joy!