Five Pennies
In this film based on a true story, Red Nichols (Danny Kaye) moves from his small town to New York City to become a jazz musician. Although he experiences culture shock, he soon becomes well respected in the clubs, even forming a friendship with Louis Armstrong (Louis Armstrong). After marrying Willa (Barbara Bel Geddes) and having a daughter, Dorothy (Susan Gordon), Red still tours constantly. But, when he learns that Dorothy has polio, he realizes he must rethink his priorities.
Critic Reviews:
- “A bit too sobby in spots, the film rates "good” for its exuberant music, its sharply detailed Jazz Age atmosphere, and Kaye's likeable performance." – Maclean's Magazine
- “A bit of a sprightly-tragic mess, but if one doesn't try to sum up its parts, it's plenty entertaining in a nostalgic, old-movie way.” – Groucho Reviews
- “The Five Pennies is a solidly crafted movie that glosses over a lot of the real history of jazz.” – The Dissolve