NO, NO, NANETTE

Cinemavixion Review

Herbert Wilcox's "No, No, Nanette" from 1940 is a charming musical comedy that, while perhaps not reaching the operatic heights of its stage predecessor, offers a delightful diversion. Starring the ever-effervescent Anna Neagle as the titular Nanette, the film spins a tale of romantic entanglements and well-intentioned meddling. Nanette's efforts to save her uncle's marriage from his numerous flirtations lead her into a delightful dance with theatrical producer Bill Trainor (Richard Carlson) and artist Tom Gillespie (Victor Mature). The narrative, though occasionally convoluted with its multiple romantic threads, is buoyed by Neagle's spirited performance and the film's generally lighthearted tone. While the external data suggests a modest IMDb rating of 5.2, the film's appeal lies in its earnest performances and the classic musical comedy structure. It's a pleasant reminder of a bygone era of Hollywood filmmaking, where a perky heroine and a series of misunderstandings could lead to a satisfying, albeit predictable, conclusion. For those seeking a gentle, song-and-dance-infused escape, "No, No, Nanette" provides a sweet, if somewhat dated, cinematic treat.