Up in Arms [VHS]
Up in Armsnot only introduced Danny Kaye to moviegoing audiences, but marked his first (of several) ventures with producer Samuel Goldwyn. In this 1944 musical set in contemporary time, a hypochondriac has wartime adventures while trying to impress a pretty nurse. With its lush cinematography in vibrant colors that still leap out, the film will nonetheless still have the politically correct policeUp in Arms--the portrayals of the Japanese are stereotypical and cringingly embarrassing. Most notably forgettable is a scene in which Kaye's Danny Weems impersonates a Japanese officer and emerges a hero. But remember, the film was released at the height of war--and of American patriotism. Overall, Kaye's talent shines--he performs the lyrical work of wife Sylvia Fine, one of five contributors to the still catchy, still singable songs. And for those who remember Dinah Shore only from either her TV talk show or the popular golf tournament that bears her name, here's a revelation: she was a super talent. She sings, dances, and lights up the screen. Costars Virginia Merrill and Dana Andrews have the thankless roles of straight persons to the charismatic Kaye and Shore, who have a phenomenal dance number that'll leave you humming the tune long after initial viewing. Look for Kaye's subsequent frequent costar Virginia Mayo in a blink-and-you'll-miss-her Goldwyn Girl role.--N.F. Mendoza