The Eddy Duchin Story DVD, 1956

Eddy Duchin’s name might not mean much these days but, as this comprehensive fictionalised biopic of the pianist and bandleader shows, he was one of America’s brightest stars of the 1930s-40s. Tyrone Power stars as the pianist turned band leader who pulls himself to the top with a dash of luck and a lot more talent. But Eddy’s gilded career is dogged by personal tragedy and not even his music can drown out the pain.

One of the highest grossing films of 1956, gaining four Oscar nominations along the way, it’s regarded as one of the best of the 1950s weepies, with an atmosphere comparable to that found in Douglas Sirk’s best pictures. Tyrone Power flings himself into the part of the musician, while Kim Novak – who helped to promote the film in her contemporary No-Cal diet soda ads – plays his loving wife. Predictably, the musical numbers are the highlight of the film but director George Sidney makes sure that the drama is never neglected. This is a generous tribute to a now overlooked name.

Barney Kelly on 30th January 2009
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