Artie Shaw and His Orchestra

About This Movie

So, this short from 1939, part of the Melody Master series, is a neat little piece capturing Artie Shaw and his orchestra in their prime. The performances are tight, with Shaw’s clarinet work really shining through, especially in 'Begin the Beguine' and the quirky Russian number, 'Pross Tchai.' Helen Forrest brings a nice vocal touch, and the pacing keeps things lively, making it a delightful watch. It’s interesting how it was re-released a couple of times—in '48 and '55—suggesting it had enough appeal to warrant a second life. The atmosphere is unmistakably late 30s jazz, evoking a certain nostalgia that feels like stepping back in time rather than just watching an old film.

This short has seen a few re-releases, which adds a layer of intrigue for collectors. It's not overly common, but certainly not impossible to find—more of a niche piece for those who appreciate the jazz era and its musical shorts. The varying formats through the years keep it interesting, even if it doesn't have a massive following; there’s a dedicated audience that appreciates these slices of musical history.