The Jolson Story (1946) | Directed by Alfred E. Green

The Jolson Story is a biographical musical film depicting the rise to fame of legendary entertainer Al Jolson. The movie follows his journey from his early days as a cantor’s son to becoming one of the most celebrated performers of his time. Featuring elaborate musical numbers and a dramatic retelling of Jolson’s career, the film showcases his struggles, triumphs, and personal sacrifices in pursuit of success.

Genre: Musical, Biographical, Drama

Director: Alfred E. Green

Alfred E. Green was an American film director known for his work during Hollywood’s Golden Age. Born in 1889, he directed over 100 films spanning silent cinema to talkies. His career included a variety of genres, from musicals and dramas to crime films and comedies. Green is best remembered for films like The Jolson Story and Baby Face (1933), a groundbreaking pre-Code drama. He continued directing into the 1950s before retiring.

Star Cast:
- Larry Parks as Al Jolson
- Evelyn Keyes as Julie Benson
- William Demarest as Steve Martin
- Ludwig Donath as Cantor Yoelson
- Tamara Shayne as Mrs. Yoelson
- Scotty Beckett as Young Asa Yoelson
- Bill Goodwin as Tom Baron

The Jolson Story was a major box-office success and received widespread acclaim, particularly for its musical performances and Larry Parks’ portrayal of Al Jolson. Audiences were captivated by the film’s nostalgic celebration of classic show business, and Jolson’s own voice, which was dubbed over Parks’ performance, added authenticity. The movie was nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Actor for Larry Parks, and won for Best Musical Scoring. Some modern critics view the film as a romanticized version of Jolson’s life, but it remains a beloved classic.

Fun Facts:
- Al Jolson provided the actual singing voice for Larry Parks in all of the musical numbers.
- The film’s unexpected success led to a sequel, Jolson Sings Again (1949).
- Larry Parks was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor, but his career suffered in the 1950s after he was blacklisted during the Red Scare.
- The Jolson Story revitalized interest in Al Jolson’s music, bringing his classic hits back into the spotlight.
- Some scenes in the film were shot on the Warner Bros. backlot, even though Columbia Pictures produced the movie.

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