“Yankee Doodle Dandy” is a 1942 American biographical musical about George M. Cohan, known as “The Man Who Owned Broadway.” His songs have become a part of our National heritage. Who hasn’t hummed or sung along with the words from the title song? Odell Public Library Friends chose this film for its July movie to celebrate America’s birthdate and the birthdate of George M. himself: July 4th! Come to Odell Public Library, 307 S. Madison Street, Morrison, IL, to watch for the first or the hundredth time this beloved musical on Tuesday, July 15, 2014, at 2:00 p.m.
Although some bits of the movies are Hollywood-ized, much care was taken to make the sets, costumes, and dance steps match the original stage presentations of George M Cohan. He also served as consultant during the production of the film. James Cagney stars as Cohan. Not known for his dancing and singing, Cagney threw himself into the role with complete joy as the Nation was newly at war in 1942.
The film is the story of a man and his music. Born into a vaudeville family, Cohan and his sister joined the family act as soon as they could learn to dance. The family became known as “The Four Cohans.” However, George becomes too cocky and is considered troublesome by theatrical producers. He leaves the act and tries to sell his songs, to no avail, until he meets another struggling song-writer, Sam Harris. With their songs of “Over There,” “Give My Regards to Broadway,” and “I’m a Yankee Doodle Dandy,” they are on the road to success.
When production on the film began, America had just been attacked at Pearl Harbor. The film’s cast and crew resolved to make an uplifting, patriotic film. It was timed to open on Memorial Day 1942 and was regarded as having achieved its goal in a “grand” fashion.
Join us for popcorn, a drink, and a feel-good, tap-your-toe American musical. See you at the movies!