Orchestra Wives is one of those old films that is basically just a vehicle for some musicians to cut some numbers and a couple of well-known actors to draw in the movie-going public. That said it’s quite an enjoyable little film with some decent music.

The orchestra in question is the Glenn Miller Orchestra, led of course by Miller himself. The plot revolves around a young woman Connie (Ann Rutherford) who is swept off her feet by handsome (and unconvincing musician!) Bill Abbot (George Montgomery). Seriously, no-one has ever looked less realistic playing a trumpet, but never mind that. You might guess from the film’s title that she marries him and becomes an orchestra wife. That is, one of the group of musicians’ wives who travel with the orchestra. She finds that things aren’t always friendly between the wives though, particularly with one who is Bill’s former love. The difficulties of being on the road are also portrayed, in a much gentle style than the drug-fueled environs shown in more modern biopics of musicians such as Ray Charles and Johnny Cash.. Among the other cast members are Carole Landis as another of the wives, and Cesar Romero as one of the orchestra members and Bill’s close friend. He provides the light comic relief in this movie, particularly in scenes involving his ex-wife.

Just as the actors don’t convince as musicians, the musicians really don’t act very well. There are quite a few scenes in Orchestra Wives that are unintentionally hilarious, at least I think the humour is unintentional. Miller himself looks uncomfortable in every scene, but he and his band make it up with some nice up-tempo jazz numbers. I didn’t think there were any truly outstanding songs or instrumental pieces here, but it’s pleasant enough if you like jazz.

Made in 19432, I was rather surprised to find out that this was actually nominated for an Oscar (for best music & original song, “I’ve Got a Gal in Kalamazoo”). I would recommend this movie to jazz fans, especially Glenn Miller fans, but really the plot’s pretty decent as well. Although the acting can be appalling, it makes for extra entertainment as you try to work out if the comedy in it was really intentional or not. I enjoyed it but it’s nothing amazing. If you like old films in general, you’ll probably enjoy it.

Now, girls, the question is: could you possibly resist this chat-up line?

”Now listen cutie-pie. I'm a big, bad trumpet player, and never in my life have I seen anything so gorgeous coming off a dance floor. I've seen thousands. I've kissed some of them, but not like I'm going to kiss you.”

Thought not!

Another quote for the road:

Mrs. Beck: How about you, Sinjin, when are you getting married?
Sinjin: What for? I got a lot of girls that are just pulling their hair waiting for me to call them.
Ben Beck: Why don't you call 'em?
Sinjin: Are you kidding? I'm sick of running around with bald dames.


Runtime: 98 minutes

Directed by Archie Mayo (whose first film was way back in 1917)

There’s no offensive content whatsoever in this movie, apart from the terrible acting! :-D


If you like black and white musicals, check out Stormy Weather

See also: Top Ten Musicals


Recommended: Yes