[78-L] Cantor/Jolson films in the MGM/FOX - A report

[Steve Ramm]

I just KNOW there will be feedback on this posting (Hey, I've been here awhile).
 
There was mention a while ago about the first release on DVD of Jolson's Hallelujah I'm a Bum along with Cantor's "Whoopee" and " Kid Millions". It's part of the Fox/MGM 61 DVD (!) set (with 5 films) "Classic Musicals. 
 
Well I was able to get a set to review and wanted to report in. It's a sad situation.
 
I was anxious to watch the one Cantor and one Jolson. WOW what a disappointment.
 
There is NO restoration at all and no bonus items. Not even a liner note! The 61 DVDS in the set are divided into 4 decade packs and these are cardboard sleeve with just the title. I've never seen Hallelujah I'm A Bum before and really liked the story. The print is worn and sound distorted.
 
Watch Whoopee Last night. All the color is washed out and the big production numbers have distorted sound. Haven't watched Kid Millions yet.
 
The Other DVDs in the 1930-1949 group are the same discs that have been released before complete with OLD "previews". Yeesh. And the packaging of this set is AWFUL and falls apart.
 
Of course, I don't know who the set is aimed at with Elvis, Rocky Horror Picture Show, Sound of Music and Hair included. IT's down as low as $329 at Costco but who wants it.
 
It's such a shame that Fox doesn't let the rights go to Warners to restore or restore and put together a Cantor/Jolson set. (That'll never happen and Turner doesn't own these films either.)The ONLY Jolson film from the 20s-30s I've seen other than "Hallelujah" is the Jazz Singer. I was impressed by his acting in Hallelujah.
 
Thought I'd share.
 
Steve
 
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