“Miss London Ltd.” is a British musical comedy film released in 1943, directed by Val Guest and starring Ronald Shiner, Arthur Askey, and Anne Shelton.

The film is set in wartime London, where the Miss London Ltd. beauty contest is taking place. The contest is being held to raise funds for charity, and the winner will receive a prize of £25,000. The contest is hosted by Arthur Goodbody (Arthur Askey), a radio presenter who is also the master of ceremonies for the contest.

The contestants include a diverse group of young women, each with their own unique backgrounds and personalities. One of them, Peggy (Anne Shelton), is a talented singer who catches the eye of Arthur. However, Peggy’s boyfriend, a soldier named Tommy (Max Bacon), is also in London on leave, and he is not pleased to see her in the contest.

As the contest progresses, a series of mishaps and misunderstandings ensue, leading to chaos both onstage and off. Meanwhile, Arthur and Peggy grow closer, but their budding romance is threatened by the presence of Tommy, as well as by the scheming of a rival contestant, Trixie (Evelyn Dall).

In the end, the winner of the contest is announced, and Arthur and Peggy are able to reconcile and perform a duet together. The film ends on a high note, with the contestants and audience celebrating the success of the contest and the triumph of love over adversity.

Directors:
Val Guest

Writer:
Marriott Edgar, Val Guest

Stars:
Arthur Askey, Evelyn Dall, Anne Shelton

“Li’l Abner” is a musical comedy film released in 1940, directed by Albert S. Rogell and based on the popular comic strip of the same name by Al Capp. The film tells the story of Abner Yokum, a lazy but lovable hillbilly who lives in the small town of Dogpatch, USA.

The plot centers around the town’s efforts to attract a government contract for a new atomic bomb testing site, which will bring in much-needed jobs and money. However, the corrupt General Bullmoose and his assistant, Appassionata Von Climax, are also vying for the contract and will stop at nothing to get it.

Meanwhile, Abner falls in love with Daisy Mae Scragg, a beautiful young woman who is also being pursued by the wealthy and arrogant Stupefyin’ Jones. The two men engage in a hilarious battle for Daisy Mae’s affections, culminating in a climactic chase scene through the streets of Dogpatch.

The film features a talented cast, including Granville Owen as Li’l Abner, Martha O’Driscoll as Daisy Mae, and Mona Ray as Stupefyin’ Jones. It also includes several memorable musical numbers, including the classic “Jubilation T. Cornpone.”

Overall, “Li’l Abner” is a fun and entertaining comedy that captures the humor and charm of the beloved comic strip. Its combination of slapstick humor, catchy songs, and colorful characters make it a classic of the genre.

Directors:
Albert S. Rogell

Writer:
Charles Kerr, Tyler Johnson, Al Capp

Stars:
Jeff York, Martha O’Driscoll, Mona Ray

“Killer Diller” is a 1948 musical film directed by Josh Binney and starring Nat King Cole and Sheila Guyse.

The story follows “Killer” Diller (Cole), a talented pianist who is falsely accused of a crime and sent to prison. While in jail, he meets a young woman named Georgia (Guyse), who is also a musician. Together, they form a band with other inmates, performing for the rest of the prison population and gaining popularity.

After being released from prison, Diller and Georgia attempt to make a living as musicians, facing numerous obstacles and setbacks along the way. They encounter a ruthless nightclub owner named Harry (Jester Hairston), who tries to exploit their talent for his own gain. However, Diller and Georgia are determined to succeed on their own terms, refusing to compromise their music or integrity.

As they continue to perform and gain recognition, Diller and Georgia also develop a romantic relationship. However, their success is threatened when Diller is accused of another crime and must clear his name.

In the end, Diller and Georgia are able to prove his innocence and are welcomed back into the music scene with open arms. They perform a final, triumphant concert together, showcasing their love for each other and their music.

“Killer Diller” is notable for featuring an all-black cast and for its representation of the post-war jazz scene. It also tackles issues of injustice and perseverance, highlighting the power of music as a means of overcoming adversity.

Directors:
Josh Binney

Writer:
Hal Seeger

Stars:
Dusty Fletcher, George Wiltshire, Butterfly McQueen

“Paradise in Harlem” is a 1939 musical film directed by Joseph Seiden and starring Mamie Smith and Norman Astwood.

The story follows Billie Williams (Smith), a young singer from Harlem who dreams of making it big in the music industry. She meets a wealthy businessman named Bradley (Astwood), who offers to help her achieve her dreams. However, Billie soon discovers that Bradley is a con artist who is using her talent to make money for himself.

Meanwhile, a group of neighborhood kids, known as the “Harlem Tuff Kids,” are causing trouble around the neighborhood, stealing and causing mischief. Billie takes an interest in the kids and tries to steer them in a more positive direction by organizing a community center for them to participate in music and dance classes.

As Billie’s career takes off, she becomes increasingly aware of Bradley’s shady dealings and tries to break away from him. However, Bradley is not willing to let her go and schemes to keep her under his control.

In the end, the Harlem Tuff Kids come to Billie’s rescue, helping her to expose Bradley’s true intentions and saving her from his clutches. Billie is then able to focus on her music and her community center, creating a better life for herself and those around her.

“Paradise in Harlem” is notable for featuring an all-black cast and for its representation of Harlem’s vibrant music and culture. The film also tackles issues of exploitation and empowerment, highlighting the importance of self-determination and community support.

Directors:
Joseph Seiden

Writer:
Frank H. Wilson, Vincent Valentini

Stars:
Frank H. Wilson, Mamie Smith, Norman Astwood