The Glenn Miller Story

US (1954): Musical/Biography

James Stewart, at his warmest and most avuncular, plays the bandleader who rocketed to fame during the swing era. The Glenn Miller Story may be a whitewashed version of Miller's life, but it certainly is a pleasant example of the feel-good Hollywood biopic, with the usual conventions: early struggles, loyal wife (June Allyson at her chirpiest), personal sacrifice -- Miller joins the Army when war breaks out, although he doesn't have to -- and ultimate tragedy. All the Glenn Miller classics filling the soundtrack make the film pretty easy to take, too: "Moonlight Serenade," "A String of Pearls," "Chattanooga Choo-Choo." Miller plays the great "In the Mood" with his military band during a World War II air-raid warning. Pure corn, but it works. Director Anthony Mann, better known for his superb series of hard-bitten fifties westerns with Stewart, keeps the story moving gently and gracefully. A hot jazz interlude features Louis Armstrong and Gene Krupa on "Basin Street Blues". Cast also includes Harry Morgan, Charles Drake, George Tobias, Barton MacLane and Sig Ruman. (U-I) (Robert Horton, Amazon.com)

 Use this link to view a clip of "Basin Street Blues" from The Glenn Miller Story on TCM.com.

3 nominations, 1 Award