An Oldie-but-Goodie

Watched a great movie over the weekend--an oldie-but-goodie--Stars and Stripes Forever, a somewhat abbreviated biography of John Philip Sousa (who rates in the top third of my favorite composer list). The late Clifton Webb, known more for his dramatic roles than musicals, although he was also a dancer and a singer, played the part of Sousa, with Ruth Hussey as his wife. A (very) young Robert Wagner also appears. (Webb and Wagner also starred together in the film, Titanic--the early version).

I have no idea how many times we've watched this--but many--and admittedly almost entirely for the music. By today's standards, of course, the dialogue and sentiments are fairly schmaltzy, but the music and Webb's dandy, dapper portrayal of Sousa make it worth all the replays. Many of our favorite Sousa marches are featured. 

What it is, is a feel-good movie that leaves you humming a little and maybe even wanting to march through the house for a few days after watching it. 

BJ