This is from the 1936 movie "Under your spell". The movie itself is not very good, but it does give us a glimpse of Tibbett's remarkable acting talent. Some have claimed his acting to have been in the Chaliapin league.
This film was the American directorial debut of Otto Preminger.
Tibbett had signed for two films with the newly-created 20th Century-Fox and his first picture("Metropolitain"), despite its premier at New York's Radio City Music Hall was a complete flop even though the critics loved it.
Zanuck didn't want to make the 2nd picture and tried to buy Tibbett out of his contract but Tibbett insisted the picture be made.
None of Tibbett's films are great art, but they are all wonderful as documents of a great artist. I'd even call them priceless, since we don't have any complete films of his operatic performances. Here we see his easily authoritative acting (remember that he once played Iago in Shakespeare's Othello), plus his seemingly effortless alteration of rich, full-voiced singing with delicate pianos --
This film was the American directorial debut of Otto Preminger.
Tibbett had signed for two films with the newly-created 20th Century-Fox and his first picture("Metropolitain"), despite its premier at New York's Radio City Music Hall was a complete flop even though the critics loved it.
Zanuck didn't want to make the 2nd picture and tried to buy Tibbett out of his contract but Tibbett insisted the picture be made.
SatchmoSings 1 year ago
very fine assesssment indeed! :)
mrm4xim4m 2 years ago
Perhaps this song might have been suggested by the Donkey Serenade in The Firefly.
Whatever was the inspiration, the scene is most enjoyable to see and the song to hear. Another winner from this very great baritone.
rupepill 3 years ago
So light hearted and lovely. Brought a smile to my face. Thank you.
vth39 3 years ago
None of Tibbett's films are great art, but they are all wonderful as documents of a great artist. I'd even call them priceless, since we don't have any complete films of his operatic performances. Here we see his easily authoritative acting (remember that he once played Iago in Shakespeare's Othello), plus his seemingly effortless alteration of rich, full-voiced singing with delicate pianos --
stevevandien 4 years ago 2