This is by far a superior film to the glossy, Technicolor 1951 version, which (among other things) totally weakens the character of Magnolia. The cast is uniformly wonderful and the film forever preserves the legendary performances of Helen Morgan, Paul Robeson and Charles Winninger. The Oscar Hammerstein II and Jerome Kern score is wonderful--particularly the immortal "Ol' Man River".
Directed by James Whale (recently the subject of "Gods and Monsters"), this version shows a real sensitivity towards blacks and women. Both groups were severely oppressed in American society at the time, and one can't help but feel that Whale brought his own unique perspective as an outsider to this story.
Yes, there are a couple of uneasy moments (ie-Magnolia's number in blackface), but remember that such practices were commonplace in the theatre in late 19th century America. It is important that we do not gloss over these facts, but rather fully recognized the prejudices and bigotry of the past.
A great movie and important view into our past.
