Calling the Tune (1936)

Name: Calling the Tune
Genre: Music, Drama
Released: 1936
Duration: 80 min
Cast: Adele Dixon, Sally Gray, Clifford Evans, Sam Livesey, Donald Wolfit

1h 20m United Kingdom

Music Drama

Plot

"Calling the Tune" delves into the early days of the gramophone industry, highlighting its quest for dependable recording and production techniques. Mr. Gordon (Sam Livesey), a cunning record label executive, confidently claims that the gramophone will revolutionize entertainment. However, his unscrupulous tactics lead to his downfall after he crosses the line with his competitors. While the romantic subplot feels secondary, the film shines with performances from icons like Henry Wood and George Robey, capturing the magic of live recordings. An intriguing nod to an early version of laser discs also adds to the film's innovative charm.

Cast

Adele Dixon Sally Gray Clifford Evans Sam Livesey Donald Wolfit Eliot Makeham Lewis Casson Ronald Simpson H.F. Maltby Robb Wilton Reginald Forsyth Charles Penrose George Robey Henry Wood Pat Fitzpatrick