Hallelujah, I'm a Bum

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Denny S @pinetree51 02/29/2024 One of Jolson's best film performances and some would argue THE best. No dated blackface, just straight Jolson playing a happy-go-lucky bum who lives in Central Park who occasionally breaks out in songs written for the film by Rogers and Hart in a film directed by Lewis Milestone. The real mayor of New York knows him and greats him with "Well, how's the mayor of Central Park today?". As an added treat, Harry Langdon has a small part as a Marxist street sweeper! All in all, this is a wonderful film and certainly worth viewing to hear Jolson sing ("live" for the most part, not lip synched) and for a window into the world of New York City during the depression. See more 02/01/2019 The best musical comedy movie ever made! See more 03/31/2017 A unique & creaky early sound depression era musical that was somewhat of a comeback for Al Johnson star of the Jazz Singer 1927. The story of happy go lucky bum that has no issues with Skid Row since he is making the best of it. Everything changes when he unintentionally falls for bosses gal. Filled with many technical breakthroughs & despite its stage based dialogue it's an interesting film since few films focused on the depression whilst the nation was in it. See more 09/20/2014 Jolson's most unusual film is an uneven satire with rhymed dialogue by Rodgers & Hart (who also have cameos in the movie). See more 05/01/2013 A whimsical, offbeat and somewhat original Depression-era musical comedy See more 11/16/2011 A curious musical unlike any other stars Jolson as a happy-go-lucky hobo more than content to spend his days (with others of his ilk) both unemployed and unattached in the park. However, after saving a beautiful woman from killing herself (only to discover she now has amnesia) Jolson (or 'Bumper' as his character is called) turns over a new leaf, cleans up, gets a job and forgoes his old way. Little does he know the object of his affection is actually in love with his best friend - the Mayor of New York - who is likewise pining for her return. Sing-song, rhyming dialogue throughout, silent stars getting exposure in 'talkies', inventive camera angles - Hallelujah, I'm a Bum is a unique slice of old Hollywood long-faded, but one still bright enough to shine through on the small screen. A Depression-era gem with socialist overtones - not to mention an appearance by the Wizard of Oz himself, Frank Morgan (six years prior to his famous role). See more Read all reviews

Hallelujah, I'm a Bum

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