The Benny Goodman Story
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Movie Reviews of The Benny Goodman Story
Movie Review: He can't help the way he is--and aren't we glad?
Summary: 4 Stars
I understand the history in this story isn't precisely correct, but oh-my-god the music! Steve Allen, who made his film debut here, is only playing along with Goodman's original recordings, but he still gives an intensity and modesty to the role.
And again, the music. You've got a lot of the greats, including Gene Krupa, Stan Getz, and Harry James playing themselves. The film's a treat to watch, but worth buying to listen to over and over again.
Rebecca Kyle, March 2009
Movie Review: Old but good
Summary: 4 Stars
Well made movie, and probably close to reality than The Glenn Miller Story. Steve Alen looks more like Glenn Miller than he does to Benny Goodman, and he plays Goodman in a rather understated way, at times almost dead, but he was no actor. He was a comedian. Some of the acting in this movie is quite mediocre, and so is the script. But it is a movie for Big Bands buffs, the music is wonderful and so is the depiction of the period. Despite its shortcomings, the movie is quite enjoyable.Movie Review: Great Music
Summary: 4 Stars
Steve Allen and Donna Reed performed beautifully in this story about Benny Goodman. The difference between Benny Goodman and the musical icons of today is astounding. His music was brilliant. He searched for and found his own sound without relying upon a gimic such as makeup, volume, pyrotechnics or untoward behavior. In particular I enjoyed the scene where his audience caught him by surprise as he toured America.Movie Review: Benny Goodman Kind of Swing
Summary: 4 Stars
Great film, entertaining , informative a great start for anyone interested in finding out about swing , good viewing for all the family.
Debbie Curtis (Debbie Curtis Radio Big Band )
Movie Review: Thanks for the music
Summary: 3 Stars
The value of this film lies not in the story but the music. The story is filled with flaws including the Carnegie Hall concert. However, there are some versions of the musical material on the soundtrack that surpasses many of the studio recorded versions available today. "One O'Clock Jump, Stompin' at the Savoy," and "Bugle Call Rag" are three that come to mind. This is where the film shines, in the musical presentation. As one of the other reviewers stated, if you want to learn about the life of Benny Goodman, get a copy of "Swing, Swing, Swing: The Life and Times of Benny Goodman." Next get a copy of the Carnegie Hall concert and listen. The recording is noisy, but the music is amazing. Furthermore, this event elevated Jazz from popular music to an artform. 1 star for the acting and 5 stars for the music.