Got a Penny, Benny?

About This Movie

So, 'Got a Penny, Benny?' is this neat little short from '46, capturing Nat 'King' Cole in a charming moment. The vibe is light and playful, typical of post-war musical shorts, really. You get that smooth Cole performance, which is just great to watch. The pacing is quick, almost like a playful little dance, and it evokes that casual yet vibrant atmosphere of the time. The practical effects are minimal but serve to focus on the music and Cole's charisma. It’s distinctive in how it encapsulates the joy of music in such a simple setup. Definitely a unique piece in any collection, especially for Cole enthusiasts.

This short has had limited format releases over the years, making it somewhat of a rarity for collectors. The original 16mm prints are particularly sought after, though they can be difficult to track down. Interest tends to spike among Nat Cole fans, as it showcases his early work in a purely musical context, and it's often discussed in the realm of classic music shorts from the mid-20th century.