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Reviews
Let's Dance (1950)
Betty Hutton at her sparkling best
Maybe this film was never going to pick up an Oscar, but for plain entertainment value it's pretty hard to beat. You've got to remember that this film is over fifty years old and, although the quality of the video is very good, they did things a little differently back then. What was funny or topical at that time might well go over our heads today. The plot isn't gripping, but it will keep you amused, and the film really buzzes in places. Astaire dances to his usual excellent standard, with some unusual and snappy routines, but for the first time, he really has to compete for the stage with his partner. Miss Hutton not only keeps up with Astaire, she actually manages to upstage the 'Master' in the dance routines. You'll have to watch the film four or five times before you start to look at Astaire when they dance together. Betty Hutton is totally magnetic; you can't stop watching her for a moment. Although she may not have quite the technical abilities of some of Astaire's previous partners, she more than makes up for that with her enthusiasm and dynamic personality. It's like tossing a grenade into a vat of champagne - an explosion of sparkle and fizz. And make no mistake about it...That gal can dance! Well worth seeing.
The Perils of Pauline (1947)
A sparkling Betty Hutton and supporting cast in a very entertaining movie
OK, so this film was never going to be nominated for an Oscar, but for plain entertainment value it has to get 10 out of 10. Although historically inaccurate; this film about the silent movie queen Pearl White, is the perfect showcase for the effervescent Betty Hutton's remarkable talents. The difference in singing style between the gentle 'I Wish I Didn't Love You So' and the bulldozer of a number 'Rumble, Rumble, Rumble' just goes to show how versatile she is as a singer. In the film she plays an actress of rather limited ability, which is very far from the truth. Betty Hutton was a great actress in her day; a far better actress than she was given credit for. Betty Hutton is still alive and living in Palm Springs. I love her dearly and wish her the very best of health and happiness.