Two Marvelous Movies From the 1950s- both Based on Broadway Musicals- South Pacific and L'll Abner- Dogpatch and Bali Hi

Two Marvelous Movies From the 1950s- both Based on Broadway Musicals- South Pacific and L'll Abner- 

  South Pacific is a romantic musical film based on the 1949 Rodgers and Hammerstein musical of the same name. The film was directed by Joshua Logan and stars Mitzi Gaynor as Ensign Nellie Forbush, opposite Italian film star Rossano Brazzi as Emile de Becque. The film also features John Kerr as Lt. Joseph Cable and Ray Walston as Luther Billis.

The film is set on a South Pacific island during World War II. Nellie Forbush is a young Navy nurse who falls in love with Emile de Becque, a middle-aged French plantation owner. However, Nellie's love is tested when she discovers that Emile has two mixed-race children from a previous marriage. Nellie is initially prejudiced against Emile's children, but she eventually comes to love them. She also has a difficulty time concerning his deceased wife.

The film also explores the themes of racism and prejudice. Emile's mixed-race children are seen as a symbol of the racial tensions that existed in the United States during the 1950s. The film's message is that love can overcome even the most difficult challenges.

South Pacific was a critical and commercial success. The film was nominated for three Academy Awards, winning the award for Best Sound. The film was also a box office hit, grossing over $20 million at the time of its release.

South Pacific is a classic musical film that has stood the test of time. The film's beautiful music, heartwarming story, and powerful message continue to resonate with audiences today.

Here are some of the most famous songs from the film:

• "Some Enchanted Evening"

• "I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair"

• "Bali Ha'i"

• "There Is Nothing Like a Dame"

• "Happy Talk"

South Pacific is a must-see for fans of musicals, classic films, and World War II movies. The film is a timeless classic that will continue to be enjoyed for generations.

Lots of great music and dance scenes, social conflicts of officers versus enlistment men, handsome women and gorgeous men, lovely scenery. 

L'll Abner

Li'l Abner is a 1959 musical comedy film based on the comic strip of the same name created by Al Capp and the successful Broadway musical of the same name that opened in 1956. The film was produced by Norman Panama and directed by Melvin Frank (co-writers of the Broadway production). It was the second film to be based on the comic strip, the first being RKO's 1940 film, Li'l Abner.

The film stars Peter Palmer as Li'l Abner, Leslie Parrish as Daisy Mae, Stubby Kaye as Marryin' Sam, and Billie Hayes as Mammy Yokum. The supporting cast includes Howard Keel, Fay Wray, Andy Devine, and Buster Keaton.

The film is set in the fictional town of Dogpatch, USA, a hillbilly community where Li'l Abner lives with his parents, Mammy and Pappy Yokum. Li'l Abner is a kind and gentle giant who is loved by all of Dogpatch, but he is also afraid of love. Daisy Mae, the town belle, is determined to marry Li'l Abner, but he always manages to escape her.

On Sadie Hawkins Day, a day when women are allowed to chase men, Daisy Mae finally catches Li'l Abner. However, before they can be married, Dogpatch is declared the most useless place in the country and is scheduled to be used as an atomic test bomb site. Li'l Abner and Daisy Mae must find a way to save Dogpatch, or it will be destroyed.

Li'l Abner was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $3 million at the box office. The film was praised for its humor, music, and performances. It was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Costume Design and Best Original Song.

The film is a faithful adaptation of the comic strip, capturing the humor, charm, and eccentricity of Dogpatch. The performances are all top-notch, with Peter Palmer giving a charming performance as Li'l Abner and Leslie Parrish being particularly good as Daisy Mae. The music is also excellent, with several songs becoming popular hits.

I can see very sensitive descendants of the Confederates in the American South being pit off by how stupid they come across, women are either young (Daisy Mae fears at near 18 she is past her prime) and desperate for a husband or scary old crones.

Both movies are on YouTube.  

Mel Ulm