I looked forward to seeing this for Brown, McHugh, and Maxwell from previous films, with Whiting, Claire and Lee a mystery. The setting made more of an impression at day's end. Wade Botteler seems born to play a game warden in this farce as he determines to get his man via an outrageous pair of checked trousers from Brown.
Brown generally entertains me in a mild way; this film's antics regarding him starts out a bit lame and seesaws throughout. What stands out is Brown's and Lee's dance number about knees because the chorus boys and girls gave energy, too, and the whole shebang delighted. That was the peak of the singing and dancing; the racing boats proved nifty to look at and a joy to behold in long shots. The comedy re the race, the weak plot revolving around Whiting's taking a bribe, and the fishing story lacked interest.
What interested was the setting! Gorgeous Spanish Colonial Lake Norconian Resort in its heyday, the dance pavilion, the steps leading into the building, the interiors ... yes, what a time the actors must have had filming here and presumably staying here. For a 1930 film, it had plenty of exteriors. I understand the stage play naturally couldn't have shown these, so this is a good example of how movies give life to a play. Whiting and Claire sang nicely and played nicely together; I thought she was cute. Lee suited Brown, who disappointed. I'm glad I watched it and doubt I'll rewatch. 5 stars because of the delightful setting.
Brown generally entertains me in a mild way; this film's antics regarding him starts out a bit lame and seesaws throughout. What stands out is Brown's and Lee's dance number about knees because the chorus boys and girls gave energy, too, and the whole shebang delighted. That was the peak of the singing and dancing; the racing boats proved nifty to look at and a joy to behold in long shots. The comedy re the race, the weak plot revolving around Whiting's taking a bribe, and the fishing story lacked interest.
What interested was the setting! Gorgeous Spanish Colonial Lake Norconian Resort in its heyday, the dance pavilion, the steps leading into the building, the interiors ... yes, what a time the actors must have had filming here and presumably staying here. For a 1930 film, it had plenty of exteriors. I understand the stage play naturally couldn't have shown these, so this is a good example of how movies give life to a play. Whiting and Claire sang nicely and played nicely together; I thought she was cute. Lee suited Brown, who disappointed. I'm glad I watched it and doubt I'll rewatch. 5 stars because of the delightful setting.