Second Chorus (1941) in Color — Starring Fred Astaire & Paulette Goddard

Second Chorus (1941) — Buy This Classic in Color

Experience the delightful musical comedy Second Chorus (1941) Colorized, directed by H.C. Potter, starring Fred Astaire and Burgess Meredith as two rival trumpet players and best friends who compete for both a spot in Artie Shaw’s legendary orchestra and the affections of the same beautiful woman, played by Paulette Goddard, in a lighthearted and thoroughly entertaining romp that features dazzling dance numbers, wonderful music from one of the greatest bandleaders of the swing era, and the irresistible charm of Fred Astaire at his most playful, now available for purchase in stunning color for just €15.00. This digitally enhanced version brings the sparkle, music, and dance of the swing era to vivid new life. Own this DRM-free digital download today.

Plot Summary

Danny O’Neill and Hank Taylor are two aging college students who have deliberately failed their courses year after year in order to keep playing in the university band, which is the center of their lives. Both are talented trumpet players with dreams of joining a professional big band, and both are convinced that they are destined for greatness — if only they could get the right break.

Their comfortable collegiate existence is disrupted by the arrival of Ellen Miller, a sharp and attractive young woman who becomes the band’s new manager. Both Danny and Hank are instantly smitten, and their lifelong friendship is suddenly complicated by romantic rivalry. What follows is a hilarious series of one-upmanship attempts, as each man tries to win Ellen’s heart while simultaneously sabotaging the other’s chances, all while maintaining the pretense of loyal friendship.

The stakes rise dramatically when both learn that the great Artie Shaw — playing himself in the film — is looking for new talent. A spot in Artie Shaw’s orchestra represents the pinnacle of achievement for any swing musician, and both Danny and Hank are desperate to impress the legendary bandleader. The competition between them intensifies as they scheme, connive, and outmaneuver each other in increasingly elaborate and hilarious ways.

Ellen, far from being a passive prize in their competition, proves to be smarter and more capable than either of them, manipulating both men while pursuing her own ambitions and interests. The situation builds through a cascade of comic complications to a rousing musical climax where talent, charm, and genuine feeling finally determine who wins both the girl and the gig, delivering audiences a supremely entertaining conclusion.

Cast & Crew

Director: H.C. Potter

Stars: Fred Astaire as Danny O’Neill, Burgess Meredith as Hank Taylor, Paulette Goddard as Ellen Miller, Artie Shaw as Himself, Charles Butterworth as J. Lester Chisholm, Frank Melton as Stu

Fred Astaire brings his matchless grace and charm to the role, demonstrating that even in a musical comedy, his presence elevates every scene. Burgess Meredith is a delightful comic foil, matching Astaire’s energy with his own quirky brilliance. Paulette Goddard radiates beauty and intelligence as the woman both men adore.

Why Buy This Classic in Color?

The colorization of Second Chorus brings the swing era spectacularly to life — the warm golden tones of polished brass instruments gleaming under stage lights, the rich wood and leather of collegiate settings, the glamorous sparkle of dance floor sequences, Paulette Goddard’s dark beauty and elegant 1940s wardrobe, the deep blue of midnight jazz club scenes, Artie Shaw’s famous orchestra in their crisp performance attire, the bright college colors of campus scenes, Fred Astaire’s effortlessly elegant suits and the fluid grace of his dancing brought to vivid new life, the warm amber of ballroom lighting, and the overall vibrant energy of the Big Band era. Now also available in colour. Buy Second Chorus (1941) Colorized today for €15.00 and own this delightful classic in a DRM-free format you can enjoy forever.

Historical Significance

Second Chorus was produced during the golden age of the Big Band era, when swing music dominated American popular culture and bandleaders like Artie Shaw were among the biggest celebrities in the country. Fred Astaire’s presence guaranteed box-office success and dance sequences of the highest calibre. The film features genuine performances by Artie Shaw and his orchestra, preserving the authentic sound and style of one of the era’s greatest musical ensembles. Burgess Meredith, who would later become famous as the Penguin in Batman and as Rocky’s trainer Mickey, shows his remarkable range in this early comedic role. The film received an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Score. Through colorization, this sparkling celebration of the swing era is preserved for modern audiences.

Technical Details

• Format: MP4 digital download
• Resolution: HD 720p
• Colorized: Yes, professional AI-assisted colorization
• Audio: Original English mono soundtrack
• Runtime: Approximately 84 minutes
• DRM-free: Yes — watch on any device
• Instant download: Available immediately after purchase
• Price: €15.00

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Movie-Specific Questions

Q: Does Fred Astaire dance in this film?
A: Yes, Fred Astaire delivers several wonderful dance sequences in Second Chorus, showcasing the effortless grace and innovative choreography that made him the greatest dancer in cinema history.

Q: Is Artie Shaw really in the film?
A: Yes, the legendary bandleader Artie Shaw appears as himself, performing with his actual orchestra, making the film a valuable document of one of the greatest big bands of the swing era.

Q: Is this a good introduction to Fred Astaire films?
A: Second Chorus is a lighthearted and entertaining musical comedy that showcases Astaire’s charm, wit, and incomparable dance talent in a fun and accessible package, making it an excellent choice for newcomers to his filmography.

Digital Download Questions

Q: What format is the download?
A: The film is delivered as a high-quality MP4 file in HD 720p resolution, compatible with virtually all modern devices and media players.

Q: Is the download DRM-free?
A: Yes, your purchase is completely DRM-free. You own the file outright and can watch it on any device without restrictions or recurring fees.

Q: How quickly will I receive the download?
A: Your download link is available immediately after payment is confirmed. You can begin watching Second Chorus (1941) Colorized within minutes of your purchase.

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