At first, I wasn't too thrilled about this movie because of Cab's rough treatment of Minnie (Jeni Le Gon) and her insolent attitude in return. And the idea of Calloway going to an audition arranged by his manager Nettie (Ida James) when, at this point in his life, he had already entertained millions of people in several movies, on radio, and in concerts makes this very much a plot for the birds. Good thing then that not too much time is spent on the "story" though Minnie's tragic end was a little touching with Cab granting her last wish. From then on, it's just a variety show starring Cab with his orchestra along with The Peters Sisters (a talented group of full-figured women singers), and the tap-dancing Millers and Lois (their tap routines are some of the best I've seen). While just every number performed by the Hi-De-Ho man is great, he's especially compelling on the "St. James Infirmary" number. And seeing the wedding number with Cab, Ida without the glasses, and Augustus Smith as the preacher makes an excellent finale for the picture. So on that note, I highly recommend Hi-De-Ho (1947 version since Cab previously made a couple of shorts with this name, one of which I reviewed in February). P.S. David Betha who plays the Brass Hat Owner here was previously in The Green Pastures (another movie I reviewed in February) as Aaron, Ms. Le Gon was born in my birth town of Chicago, Ill., Mr. Smith was born in Jacksonville, Fl., a place I lived in from 1987-2003.
