George Burns, wanting to buy a statue, encounters an obnoxious sales clerk. Once the man is thrown out, George thinks he's okay, but the proprietor introduces him to Gracie Allen and their conversation together only remotely resembles human communication!
A band short of one of the most popular swing orchestras of the 1930's. After a brief introduction of Shaw's theme song, "Nightmare," the band plays "Free Wheeling" as it is assembled. Helen Forest sings "I Have Eyes"and the band jams with "Shoot the Likker to Me, John Boy."
Cohen Film Collection introduces this classic comedy short starring W.C. Fields
Duke Ellington’s first filmed appearance. Trumpet player Arthur Whetsol and dancer Fredi Washington play Duke’s friends who help him save his piano from bill collectors. A glittering Harlem nightclub show is an authentic treat from the 1920’s. The Ellington Orchestra plays: “The Duke Steps Out,” ...
Duke presents Ivie Anderson (1904-1949) in the first of her two film appearances: many believe her to be his best featured vocalist and was with the Ellington Orchestra between 1931 and 1942. Musical numbers: "Lightnin," "Rockin' in Rhythm," "Stormy Weather" (vocal by Ivie Anderson), "Bugle Call ...
Cab Calloway stars as a ladies’ man dating the wife of a train porter who is frequently absent from home. In addition to this tongue-in-cheek plot, Cab Calloway and His Orchestra perform “Harlem Camp Meeting,” and Calloway has two vocals, “Zaz-zuh-zaz” and “The Lady with the Fan.”
W.C. Fields’ prodigal son returns home to his parents’ snowbound cabin in the Yukon where he is welcomed with open arms. It’s comedy par excellence from whence comes the immortal line “… and it ain’t a fit night out for man nor beast.”
Man Ray said he made this short in strick conformity with Surrealist principles.
Cohen Film Collection presents this classic comedy short starring W.C. Fields.
A song-filled short featuring composer and piano player Carmichael. Songs include “I’m Wrong,” “Washboard Blues,” “Old Rockin’ Chair” and “Stardust.”
Cohen Film Collection introduces this classic short starring Bing Crosby. Marion Sayers is about to be married to a phony marquis (Luis Alberni), but Bing manages to catch her for himself after a humorous mix-up in several hotel rooms. Bing sings: “I Surrender Dear,” “Out of Nowhere,” “At Your C...
This short film featuring Don Aspiazu and his orchestra presents an excellent example of Cubano jazz from the 1920's and 1930's.
A more integrated and consciously "surrealistic" work by Man Ray, inspired by Robert Desnos' poem, with a love affair that unites the whole film.
Man Ray and J.A. Boiffard explore an art connoisseur's modern chateau, and construct a number of visual jokes around it.
George is taken to the hospital mistaken for an accident victim. After his needless operation, he meets Nurse Gracie, who adds insanity to injury.