The Duke Is Tops (1938)
Directed by William L. Nolte / Ralph Cooper
Genres - Musical, Romance, Comedy |
Sub-Genres - Showbiz Drama |
Release Date - Jun 1, 1938 (USA - Unknown) |
Run Time - 72 min. |
Countries - United States |
MPAA Rating - NR
Share on
Synopsis by Hal Erickson
Also known as The Duke Is Tops, this is one of the best examples of the many all-black films made in the 1930s for what were then designated as "colored" theatres. Looking about 15 years old, Lena Horne plays the main attraction for the stage shows put on by a fellow named Duke (Ralph Cooper). When she gets a chance at a Broadway show, Lena swiftly severs all ties with Duke. But when Lena's big-time debut threatens to be a disaster, it is Duke who saves the day. The dialogue is for the birds, but The Duke Is Tops is aces when it comes to musical numbers.
Characteristics
Themes
Keywords
big-break, Broadway, entertainer, producer [showbiz], singer