Watch Alexander's Ragtime Band

Alexander's Ragtime Band is a classic musical movie from 1938, directed by Henry King and produced by 20th Century Fox. It features a star-studded cast, including Tyrone Power, Alice Faye, Don Ameche, and Ethel Merman. The film takes place in the early 20th century and tells the story of a trio of musicians, Alexander (Tyrone Power), Sophie (Alice Faye), and Charlie (Don Ameche), who form a ragtime band and rise to fame. Along the way, they face personal and professional challenges, including complicated relationships and rivalries.

The movie features some of the most memorable and beloved songs from the early 20th century, such as "Alexander's Ragtime Band," "Heat Wave," and "Blue Skies," all written by the legendary composer Irving Berlin. The musical numbers are choreographed by the famed Hermes Pan, who would go on to choreograph many of Fred Astaire's movies.

The movie opens in pre-World War I New York City, where Alexander and Sophie first meet and fall in love. Alexander is a talented pianist and songwriter, while Sophie is a singer and a dancer. Together, they form Alexander's Ragtime Band and begin to play at local clubs and venues. Charlie, a clarinet player, joins their band, and they soon start to catch the attention of music producers and agents.

As their fame grows, relationships between the band members become complicated. Alexander is torn between his love for Sophie and his desire for success, while Sophie struggles with her feelings for Alexander and her growing popularity as a performer. Charlie, on the other hand, is in love with a wealthy socialite, but his relationship is threatened by his loyalty to the band.

Despite their personal struggles, the band's popularity continues to soar, and they soon play for large crowds at the famous Madison Square Garden. However, their success is threatened when a rival musician, Maurice (John Carradine), challenges them to a musical showdown. The rivalry leads to a dramatic and unforgettable musical battle at the end of the movie.

Alexander's Ragtime Band is a captivating movie that showcases the talents of its star-studded cast. Tyrone Power delivers a charismatic performance as Alexander, while Alice Faye is captivating as Sophie, and Don Ameche brings wit and charm to his role as Charlie. The movie also features memorable performances by Ethel Merman, who plays a tough but lovable nightclub owner, and Jack Haley, who plays Alexander's loyal friend.

The movie is a timeless classic that celebrates the joy of music and the power of love. Through its unforgettable musical numbers and charming characters, it captures the spirit of a bygone era and reminds us of the enduring appeal of ragtime music. Alexander's Ragtime Band is a must-see for any fan of classic Hollywood musicals.

In conclusion, Alexander's Ragtime Band is a movie that will transport you to a time of grandeur, great music, and amazing performances by the actors that make you feel the energy and spirit of the early 20th century. If you love musical movies that reflect the zeitgeist of their time, this movie is a perfect fit for you.

Alexander's Ragtime Band is a 1938 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 46 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.