Pennies From Heaven

This is a movie Crosby fans have searched for in vain for decades. Not only was it rarely aired on commercial T.V., it was never offered in VHS format. Now, thankfully, the entire movie is available on DVD and the quality is incredible. Not only is the black and white cinematography looking as good as it did in 1936, the audio makes it seems as if Bing is sitting in your living room, singing his heart out to an audience of one.Crosby was always underrated as an actor and he is wonderful in the role of singing, swingin' troubadour. Child actress Edith Fellows is very effective and their screen chemistry is palpable. There's genuine humor throughout the movie, both intended and, one senses, unintended. Naturally Bing sings several songs, including the classic signature number, "Pennies From Heaven," which was number on of the hit parade for seven weeks. Crosby's voice is an instrument of beauty, depth and power. Close your eyes and listen to him croon: incredible!An added bonus is a brief appearance by the legendary Louis Armstrong, who was an early and integral influence on the young Crosby. Bing and Louis were friends off the set and knew each other long before filming this movie. Watch for the young Lionel Hampton in Armstrong's band. This is simply a treasure trove of Americana and a really endearing movie. I recommend it without reservation.

I consider "Pennies From Heaven" a very good movie with Satchmo (Henry) in places and Bing Crosby (Larry Poole). Other characters of interest are Madge Evans as (Susan Sprague) and Edith Fellows as (Patsy Smith). Patsy has Donald Meek as (Gramp Smith) looking out for her. The way they get along is Patsy's ability to "light-finger" things from unsuspecting revelers at a carnival or other public gathering of people. Once Patsy tries to lighten Larry's load, things start to happen that affects everyone involved in Patsy's life. This movie gives it's attempt at a human problem with an easy solution involving more people that Patsy has grown to love through the eyes and mind of it's Director Norman Z. McLeod.I bought this movie primarily for Louis Armstrong and his band performing "Skeletons In The Closet" which I happened to see when viewing an A&E History of Halloween DVD. I wasn't disappointed.

It's very cute movie! Bing plays a restless young man, down on his luck and perpetually in the wrong place at the wrong time. His life is turned completely upside down by running into a little girl who desperately needs a firm but loving hand, and fate has chosen Larry (Bing) to be that hand. Initially he is chagrined, but one cannot help loving the reckless, funny and rather astute little Patsy (Edith Fellows).

In general the weakest part of any musical is the dialogue and plot that links the musical interludes and this is true of Pennies from Heaven.The film began with a most bizarre scene in which a man about to be executed requests a favour from Bing Crosby who just happens to be in jail for some minor crime. Once out of prison Crosby resumes his career as a drifter who cant make a regular living despite his obvious ability as a singer. Despite his homeless and moneyless situation he still manages to maintain a well groomed appearance. Of course, this insistence by Hollywood on stars presenting an immaculate image regardless of situation was de rigueur for many years. Much of the plot and acting is somewhat inane and the film is only saved by the music of Burke & Johnston performed by Bing Crosby and Louis Armstrong.As a teenager in the 1930's with the cinema in its hey day I had little, if any, critical faculty and took everything I saw on screen at its face value therefore when I criticise a film of that period I also remember it with nostalgia and pleasure despite the shortcomings of which I am aware today.Jack Riddle - New Zealand

I only gave this movie 4 stars because of the picture quality. At first, the picture jumped a bit. While the picture was not grainy or unclear, this was still very annoying. This movie is still soooo worth watching!! Great story and a wonderful cast!!!! What a treat to see a very young Louis Armstrong acting, singing, and playing his trumpet!!!!!! What a great legend!!!!!&

Louis Armstrong and Bing Crosby in one movie is so fabulous! Speaking for myself, as a Louis Armstrong fan, having Crosby and Armstrong in one movie was like cake and ice cream for my birthday.The cute characters, circus scenes and kitschy americana throughout and a touching ending makes for a bewitching musical. Thank you

Excellent Quality, fast shipping.

Me & hubby enjoyed it. We love Bing & the humorous banter was classic. However, the portrayal of a group of Black people would not pass in today's America. It was also interesting to see how children & strangers could interact back in those days. I bought this movie w/o watching to gift for my "Copper Anniversary".

A beautiful old movie with Bing Crosby in wonderful voice - people used to the later Crosby recordings will be surprised at just how light his voice was at the time, before he became the Old Groaner of later years.Highly recommenced for those who like genuine family entertainment with Bing's rendition of Pennies from Heaven worth the money in itself.

I love old films like this... Louis Armstrong is awsome in films, watching him act and perform makes me laugh even if it's not meant to be funny. When he asks to be paid less so he can work out how to divide the money into 7 it's hillarious (although slightly sad). I love how old films could be so entertaining without violence or swearing etc.. I wish modern films could be like this!!!

A nice film, homely plot, cute kid, AND Louis Armstrong. Not to mention Mr. Crosby crooning the singable tunes, aside from the title song, there is "One-two button your shoe" "Skeleton in the closet" "Lets call a heart a heart" etc. Considering it's age, a 1936 Columbia release, the picture/sound quality is remarkably good. One for the Bing fans especially.

Fantastic. One of the most moving and fun films i have seen in a while. I loved it. It has a pure and untouched feel about it. Innocence is a key thing for children growing up. Bing's voice is superb and his style makes everyone fall in love with him.You will too.

One of my favourite films which I am happy to watch over and over again. The DVD is good quality (picture and sound) and Bing Crosby and Louis Armstrong fabulous - of course!