(1940)
2.5
Craig Butler
Star Dust has some delightful star power in it, and that's a very good thing; otherwise, this slight and insignificant little backstager would hardly be worth the trouble. Oh, it's innocuous and pleasant, but it's got one of those screenplays that you feel wasn't so much written as put together -- a little bit from this movie about Hollywood, a little from that one, throw in some common complications, then run it through the "Dialogue 101" machine and see what comes out. In such circumstances, it's up to the cast, director, and production to save the day. Well, the production is quite serviceable, with sets and costumes that are more than adequate but still less than stellar. Director Walter Lang is a pro, and he provides very efficient, diverting direction -- he knows how to keep things moving and to do everything he can to highlight his cast. That cast, fortunately, does not disappoint. A very young Linda Darnell is unearthly in her loveliness; always a true beauty, she looks stunning and also gets to play a more innocent type than she would later become known for. Her youthfulness and freshness are quite welcome. John Payne is also strong, surprisingly so; it's a nothing part, but he comes across very well in it. Mary Healy scores with her beautiful voice, and Charlotte Greenwood is a delight as the motherly drama coach. William Gargan also deserves credit for his amusing Zanuck imitation.
cast-crew for Star Dust on AllMovie
Star Dust (1940)
