SECOND CHORUS

Cinemavixion Review

H.C. Potter's "Second Chorus" (1940) offers a breezy, if somewhat formulaic, musical comedy centered on the competitive rivalry between two trumpet players, Danny O'Neill (Fred Astaire) and Hank Taylor (Artie Shaw), vying for the attention of the same woman and the approval of bandleader Artie Shaw himself. The film, starring the effervescent Fred Astaire and the charming Paulette Goddard, navigates the familiar territory of romantic entanglements and professional ambition within the vibrant jazz scene of the era. While the plot may lean into predictable tropes, the performances, particularly Astaire's signature dance numbers and Shaw's musical prowess, provide ample entertainment. The film received a modest reception, earning nominations for two Academy Awards, underscoring its presence in the musical landscape of its time. "Second Chorus" is a pleasant diversion, especially for fans of classic Hollywood musicals and Astaire's inimitable style.