Hollywood Canteen

PLOT:

Two soldiers on sick leave spend three nights at the Hollywood Canteen before returning to active duty in the South Pacific. Slim Green (Hutton) is the millionth G.I. to enjoy the Canteen, and consequently wins a date with Joan Leslie. The other G.I., Sergeant Nolan, (Clark) gets to dance with Joan Crawford. Canteen founders Bette Davis and John Garfield give talks on the history of the Canteen. The soldiers enjoy a variety of musical numbers performed by a host of Hollywood stars.

REVIEW:

I’m a fan of old Hollywood, but for some reason, I had no idea that there was such an establishment as the Hollywood Canteen, a restaurant/nightclub for servicemen to enjoy during their shore leaves during the wars. The selling point of the place was that it was operated by celebrities. Can you imagine Bing Crosby cooking your burger, Jayne Mansfield bringing it you, and then as you leave saying goodbye to Lucille Ball, the hat check girl. That is what a night was like there, and this film Hollywood Canteen shows us what it was like.

Initially, I expected this to be some kind of variety package film, but it turns out that there actually a plot involving a soldier about to return to active duty, but before he ships out, he wants to meet Joan Leslie. One night, he makes a trip to the Canteen and impresses all the workers there so much that they make a call to her, make up some faux contest which lets him kiss Joan Leslie. From there on, the film spends its time on musical acts and the soldier’s infatuation with Joan Leslie, which does end up with the two of them starting a relationship.

The plot is a little flimsy and at times can be downright creepy, what with the whole stalking of Joan Leslie, for lack of a better term. At the same time, there are some quite sweet moments, especially with this soldier who can’t be more innocent and lovable.

I do belive this is the one film I’ve seen that doesn’t have an antagonist. No, there isn’t anything wrong with that, just an observation.

A key selling point of this film is the performances and cameos from old Hollywood stars, such as Bette Davis, Roy Rogers, Jane Wyman, the Andrews Sisters, Jack Benny, Barbara Stanwyck, Peter Lorre, and many others. Couple that with the touching story and one can have quite the rousing time watching this film. However, I do think that it went on a good 30 minutes or so too long, but that’s my personal opinion. Should you watch this? Yes, it is, but this is not the film for everyone. If you’re not into classic Hollywood, then you won’t be able to enjoy this film. Otherwise, kick back, relax, and enjoy!

3 1/2 out of 5 stars

Advertisement