RHYTHMS (1929) Leo Reisman and His Orchestra & Smith Ballew | Musical | Short | Free Movie

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Rhythms is a 1929 musical short featuring Leo Reisman and His Hotel Brunswick Orchestra, produced during the early sound era when studios filmed popular bands and vocalists for theatrical shorts. The film presents a series of musical performances with no narrative, showcasing Reisman’s orchestra playing contemporary jazz and dance-band numbers. Vocalist Smith Ballew appears on at least one song, adding to the revue-style format.

Running under ten minutes, Rhythms reflects the late-1920s trend of capturing well-known orchestras on film for audiences eager to see “talkie” musical entertainment. The short serves as a historical record of Reisman’s polished dance-band style and the transition from silent film to synchronized sound.

Synopsis:

Rhythms is a musical short featuring Leo Reisman and His Hotel Brunswick Orchestra performing a set of popular late-1920s jazz and dance-band numbers. The film has no storyline; instead, it presents a staged bandstand performance where the orchestra plays several musical selections, with vocalist Smith Ballew featured on one of the songs. The short captures the polished, elegant style of Reisman’s ensemble and reflects the era’s early sound-film emphasis on showcasing live musicians in straightforward performance settings.

Cast & Crew

Orchestra Leader:
Leo Reisman – himself, leader of the Hotel Brunswick Orchestra
Featured Vocalist:
Smith Ballew – vocalist (appears on at least one number)
Members of the Hotel Brunswick Orchestra (uncredited individually)

Production:
Studio: Vitaphone / Warner Bros.
Country: United States
Year: 1929
Running Time: approx. 9 minutes