“Hoagy Carmichael classics” refers to the timeless and influential songs composed by the legendary American composer and musician Hoagy Carmichael. His music has been featured in several films, adding a touch of nostalgia and sophistication to the cinematic experience.
“To Have and Have Not”, 1944
Director: Howard Hawks
Directed by Howard Hawks, this classic film features Hoagy Carmichael in a supporting role as Cricket, the piano-playing friend of the lead character Harry Morgan, played by Humphrey Bogart. The film's soundtrack includes the iconic song “Hong Kong Blues” performed by Carmichael, adding a memorable musical dimension to the movie.
Starring: Humphrey Bogart, Walter Brennan, Lauren Bacall, Dolores Moran, Hoagy Carmichael, Sheldon Leonard, Walter Szurovy, Marcel Dalio, Walter Sande, Dan Seymour, Aldo Nadi, Nestor Amaral, Audrey Armstrong, Juliette Ball, Joy Barlow, Eugene Borden, James Burross, Jack Chefe, Louise Clark, Adrienne D'Ambricourt, Dorothy Davenport, Jean De Briac, Marcel De la Brosse, Fred Dosch, Alphonso DuBois, Elzie Emanuel, Fred Farrell, Lance Fuller, Harold Garrison, Janette Grae, Suzette Harbin, Margaret Hathaway, CeePee Johnson, Frank Johnson, Hal Kelly, Sir Lancelot, Keith Lawrence, Oscar Loraine, Paul Marion, Maurice Marsac, Louis Mercier, Chef Milani, Gussie Morris, Kanza Omar, Jack Passin, Ron Randell, Pedro Regas, Margaret Savage, Patricia Shay, Milton Shockley;
Production year: 1944;
Genre: film noir, thriller, melodrama, comedy, adventure, war;
Age: 12+;
Duration: 100 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,8;
More information about the film “To Have and Have Not” on the website imdb.com
“The Best Years of Our Lives”, 1946
Director: William Wyler
Although not specifically about Hoagy Carmichael, this film features his timeless song “Stardust” as a pivotal part of its soundtrack. The emotional depth of Carmichael's composition beautifully complements the poignant narrative of the film, making it an unforgettable cinematic experience.
Starring: Fredric March, Dana Andrews, Harold Russell, Teresa Wright, Myrna Loy, Cathy O'Donnell, Virginia Mayo, Hoagy Carmichael, Gladys George, Roman Bohnen, Ray Collins, Minna Gombell, Walter Baldwin, Steve Cochran, Dorothy Adams, Don Beddoe, Marlene Aames, Charles Halton, Ray Teal, Howland Chamberlain, Dean White, Erskine Sanford, Michael Hall, Victor Cutler, Jimmy Ames, Carol Andrews, Mary Arden, Gertrude Astor, Edward Biby, Harry Cheshire, Sidney Clute, Tom Coleman, Joyce Compton, James Conaty, Heinie Conklin, Bert Conway, Clancy Cooper, Mady Correll, Roy Darmour, Hal K. Dawson, Lawrence Dobkin, Lester Dorr, Claire Du Brey, Tom Dugan, Dick Earle, Edward Earle, Blake Edwards, Billy Engle, Ben Erway, Doris June Fesetta;
Production year: 1946;
Genre: drama, melodrama, war;
Age: 12+;
Duration: 170 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,1;
More information about the film “The Best Years of Our Lives” on the website imdb.com
“Young Man with a Horn”, 1950
Director: Michael Curtiz
This film, starring Kirk Douglas, Lauren Bacall, and Doris Day, prominently features Hoagy Carmichael's musical talents. Carmichael portrays a character named Willie 'Smoke' Willoughby, a wise and supportive friend to the protagonist, played by Kirk Douglas. The film showcases Carmichael's musical prowess and adds a layer of authenticity to the story.
Starring: Kirk Douglas, Lauren Bacall, Doris Day, Hoagy Carmichael, Juano Hernandez, Jerome Cowan, Mary Beth Hughes, Nestor Paiva, Orley Lindgren, Walter Reed, Fred Aldrich, Al Bain, Oscar Blank, Willie Bloom, Paul Bradley, John Breen, Paul Brinegar, Bridget Brown, Paul E. Burns, Frank Cady, Steve Carruthers, Albert Cavens, Hugh Charles, Dick Cherney, Dick Cogan, Herschel Daugherty, Paul Dubov, David Dunbar, Jay Eaton, Ted Eckelberry, Lewell Enge, Bess Flowers, Alex Gerry, Everett Glass, Dexter Gordon, Robert Haines, Helene Heigh, Ray Heindorf, Lou Herbert, Charles Horvath, Ivor James, Lorna Jordon, Sid Kane, Katharine Kurasch, Joseph La Cava, Murray Leonard, Keye Luke, Vivian Mallah, Hugh Murray, George Nardelli;
Production year: 1950;
Genre: drama, melodrama, biography, music;
Age: 12+;
Duration: 112 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,2;
More information about the film “Young Man with a Horn” on the website imdb.com
These films not only showcase the timeless appeal of Hoagy Carmichael's music but also demonstrate his enduring influence on the world of cinema.
As we wrap up the selection of films about Hoagy Carmichael, it's evident that his timeless music and charismatic persona have left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. From his charming performances in classic films to the enduring influence of his compositions, the cinematic journey through Hoagy Carmichael's life and work has been a delightful celebration of his talent. These films have not only captured the essence of his music but have also provided a glimpse into the era of jazz and swing, immersing audiences in the rich cultural tapestry that defined his legacy. Whether it's his on-screen presence or the evocative melodies that have graced these films, Hoagy Carmichael's contribution to cinema remains an enduring treasure, resonating with audiences across generations.
