London Melody
| Company type | Film |
|---|---|
| Industry | Film industry |
| Founded | 1937 |
| Founder | Herbert Wilcox |
| Headquarters | United Kingdom |
| Products | Musical film |
London Melody is a 1937 British musical film helmed by director Herbert Wilcox, featuring performances by Anna Neagle, Tullio Carminati, and Robert Douglas. This production was created under Wilcox's independent banner at both British and Dominions Imperial Studios, Elstree, and Pinewood Studios, with distribution managed by J. Arthur Rank's General Film Distributors. The film is also known by the alternative title Look Out for Love. Significantly, it holds the distinction of being the inaugural film shot at Pinewood Studios.
Synopsis and production
The narrative revolves around Marius Andreani, an elegant Italian diplomat portrayed by Carminati, who becomes involved in a legal trial. During his business trip to London, he encounters Jacqueline (Neagle), a spirited street performer from Cockney roots. Their immediate attraction encounters multiple challenges before reaching a final conclusion. Concurrently, Jacqueline rises to prominence in the entertainment industry, unaware that Marius has been quietly supporting her career.
Following the destruction of British and Dominions Imperial Studios by fire in February 1936, production was relocated to Pinewood Studios.
Critical reception
In 1937, The Sydney Morning Herald commended the film as an "appealing and well-executed production...Produced and directed by Herbert Wilcox in a manner that stands favorably beside Hollywood's efforts...Anna Neagle, a talented actress with unmistakable charm, delivers a captivating performance as Jacqueline. Tullio Carminati brings elegance and composure to the diplomat's role. Horace Hodges portrays the priest with warmth and humanity. Robert Douglas makes an impact despite the uneven character of Nigel Taplow, Andreani’s secretary." In contrast, Sky Movies more recently labeled it "a rather insubstantial musical vehicle for Anna Neagle, oddly cast as a Cockney street singer. This dated piece may challenge all but the most devoted Neagle enthusiasts today."
Bibliography
- Low, Rachael. Filmmaking in 1930s Britain. George Allen & Unwin, 1985.
- Wood, Linda. British Films, 1927–1939. British Film Institute, 1986.