This B Picture from 1948 is a throw-away variety show that pads its one-hour length with library footage and new segments. The segments are largely uninteresting. They include a recycling of the previous year's unfunny comedy short, "Hired Husband," excerpts from an unknown silent film (with narration), a couple of vaudeville acts, and an over-the-top performance by Cuban singer Miguelito Valdés of "Babalu," which would soon become the trademark song of fellow Cuban singer Desi Arnaz.
Though unexciting, this film is worth watching for the intros and outros delivered by emcee Jack Paar, who makes his debut here. Paar shows off the casual style and wry attitude that would become his own trademark when, ten years later, he would take over as host of NBC's Tonight Show (succeeding Steve Allen and preceding Johnny Carson). Paar also performs in a mildly amusing sketch featuring Hans Conried as "French singer" Rudy La Paix; Paar serves as lyric translator.
TCM shows this film from time to time. It's worth recording and fast-forwarding through to watch Paar in his hosting infancy.
Though unexciting, this film is worth watching for the intros and outros delivered by emcee Jack Paar, who makes his debut here. Paar shows off the casual style and wry attitude that would become his own trademark when, ten years later, he would take over as host of NBC's Tonight Show (succeeding Steve Allen and preceding Johnny Carson). Paar also performs in a mildly amusing sketch featuring Hans Conried as "French singer" Rudy La Paix; Paar serves as lyric translator.
TCM shows this film from time to time. It's worth recording and fast-forwarding through to watch Paar in his hosting infancy.