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Beware is a 1946 American musical film directed by Bud Pollard and stars prominent jazz musician and bandleader Louis Jordan and his Tympany Five. The cast also includes Frank H. Wilson and Emory Richardson among others, and the film is noteworthy as a race film from the mid-20th century; crafted specifically for African-American audiences during an era when African-American actors and entertainers were routinely marginalized in mainstream Hollywood cinema. Despite its historical significance and the fame of its lead star, Beware remains relatively obscure and less frequently discussed in contemporary film discourse.

The movie itself delves into the world of Black collegiate life and captures a pivotal time period in American history where talents from African-American communities were beginning to break barriers, albeit within a segregated society. This is reflected in the broader context of the entertainment industry and its role in the African-American experience.

Louis Jordan, renowned for his charismatic performances and musical prowess, plays the role of Lucius Brokenshire Jordan, a character fashioned after his own public persona. While the plot of Beware is not deeply complex, it does provide a platform for Jordan to showcase his celebrated musical talents, with several lively performances woven throughout the narrative.

Frank H. Wilson takes on the role of Fenderson, serving as the film's authority figure. His character is typically seen as the more serious counterbalance to the jovial and energetic Jordan. His presence contributes a sense of solidity to the plot, guiding the storyline through to its moral conclusions.

Emory Richardson, although less remembered today, offers support to the overall structure of the story. Richardson, along with the ensemble cast, helps to create a rich tapestry of characters that reflect the diverse experiences and talents within the African-American community.

The film's plot centers on the fictional Ware College, a struggling Black institution that is threatened with financial ruin. The arrival of Lucius Brokenshire Jordan brings a glimmer of hope – through his musical abilities, he's expected to headline a fundraising initiative designed to save the struggling school. The plot unravels as characters are introduced to various challenges and dilemmas that are often resolved in the moralistic fashion typical of the films of that era.

Beware incorporates several subplots that touch upon themes of love, ambition, and unity, providing a vibrant social commentary reflective of the times. One of the key aspects of the movie is its use of music, not just as an entertainment aspect, but as a storyline propellant and a cultural touchstone. With the backdrop of Ware College and the pressures it faces, the music serves as a buoyant force that lifts spirits and rallies characters toward a common goal.

Given its genre, the musical numbers are among the most memorable features. Louis Jordan and his band perform some of their most popular numbers, integrating big band jazz and early rhythm and blues. These musical interludes also work to throw light on the era's dance styles and fashions.

From a cinematographic point of view, the film utilizes the limited technical capabilities and budgets typical of race movies of that time. However, it makes up for it with spirited performances and a tapestry of cultural significance that gives viewers a glimpse into the vibrancy and resilience of African-American cultural life in the mid-20th century.

Beware stands as an artifact of its time, important not just for its entertainment value but also for its representation of African-Americans during a period when mainstream Hollywood largely ignored their stories and talents. It offers a window into a distinct period of American entertainment history, providing historical context to the evolution and impact of Black cinema.

The film's legacy is also wrapped up in the legacy of Louis Jordan himself, who was one of the most popular entertainers of his time and is often credited as a pioneer of rhythm and blues and rock and roll. His music left an indelible mark on the American music landscape, and films like Beware serve as enduring reminders of his broad talents beyond his contributions to the world of music.

For those interested in the history of film, African-American studies, or the evolution of American music, Beware offers an important, albeit underrecognized, slice of cinematic and cultural history. The performances, music, and themes all combine to create an experience that's as educational as it is entertaining, capturing the essence of a particular moment in American cultural life while simultaneously providing a foundation for future generations of Black entertainers and artists.

Beware is a 1946 drama with a runtime of 55 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.9.