Wake Up and Dream! A Whimsical Romp Through Love, Music and Mistaken Identities!

“Wake Up and Dream” (1937) stands as a delightful reminder of Hollywood’s Golden Age, offering audiences an effervescent cocktail of music, romance, and laugh-out-loud humor. Directed by the masterful Kurt Neumann, this gem features the captivating Buddy Rogers as the lead, supported by a cast that includes the charming Helen Parrish and the comedic talents of the inimitable Jimmy Durante.

The film transports us to the world of vaudeville, where aspiring songwriter Frankie “Lucky” Day (Buddy Rogers) dreams of composing a hit tune. However, his musical endeavors are constantly undermined by his self-proclaimed mentor, the boisterous but well-meaning impresario Gus “Gabby” Green (Jimmy Durante), who seems more interested in promoting himself than nurturing Frankie’s talents.

Adding to the mix is Nancy Blake (Helen Parrish), a beautiful singer and dancer who catches Frankie’s eye. As Frankie navigates the world of showbiz, he finds himself entangled in a web of mistaken identities and hilarious mishaps. His journey towards success is paved with catchy tunes like “Wake Up and Dream” and “This Is the Life,” each melody reflecting the film’s playful spirit.

A Tale of Two Identities

Frankie initially struggles to impress Nancy, who believes he’s already a successful composer thanks to Gabby’s elaborate (and entirely fictional) tales about Frankie’s past. This fabrication leads to several comedic scenarios as Frankie tries to maintain the charade while simultaneously striving to write the hit song that will win him Nancy’s affections.

The film’s plot cleverly blends elements of romantic comedy and musical escapades, keeping audiences engaged with its witty dialogue, charming performances, and infectious musical numbers. Buddy Rogers brings a sincere charm to Frankie’s character, perfectly capturing the anxieties and aspirations of a young artist chasing his dreams.

Musical Highlights: A Symphony of Charm

The soundtrack of “Wake Up and Dream” is arguably one of its strongest elements. Composed by Harry Warren with lyrics by Al Dubin, the film boasts a collection of memorable songs that seamlessly weave into the narrative.

Here are some highlights:

Beyond The Curtain: A Glimpse into 1937 Hollywood

“Wake Up and Dream” isn’t simply a delightful musical romp; it’s also a fascinating glimpse into the world of 1937 Hollywood. The film showcases the glamorous yet competitive nature of the entertainment industry, with its focus on vaudeville highlighting the shift towards larger-scale theatrical productions.

Moreover, Buddy Rogers, who was already a popular bandleader before venturing into acting, added a touch of authenticity to the musical scenes. His genuine passion for music resonated through his performance, further elevating the film’s charm.

A Timeless Delight: Why “Wake Up and Dream” Endures

While some cinematic trends fade with time, “Wake Up and Dream” continues to enchant audiences with its timeless themes of love, ambition, and the enduring power of dreams. The film’s lighthearted humor remains refreshingly relatable, while the catchy musical numbers have stood the test of time, inviting viewers to tap their feet and sing along.

If you’re looking for a cinematic escape that will leave you smiling, “Wake Up and Dream” is an excellent choice. Embrace the whimsical world of vaudeville, fall in love with Frankie’s unwavering optimism, and let the infectious music transport you back to a golden era of Hollywood entertainment!