Walking on Air is a 1936 American romantic comedy film directed by Irving Cummings and starring Alice Faye and Gene Raymond. This screwball romantic comedy is the story of a rising young Broadway star, Sylvia Landis (Faye), who falls in love with a wealthy socialite, Charles Bullock (Raymond). The film co-stars Adolphe Menjou and Mary Boland, with music by Harry Warren and lyrics by Mack Gordon.
Plot
The plot follows Sylvia Landis (Faye), a rising young Broadway star who falls in love with Charles Bullock (Raymond), a wealthy socialite. Charles is determined to win Sylvia’s heart, despite the fact that she is already engaged to a much older man, John Wiggin (Adolphe Menjou). After a series of misunderstandings, Charles and Sylvia eventually fall in love. However, Charles’ mother, Mrs. Bullock (Mary Boland), disapproves of the union due to Sylvia’s lack of social standing. In the end, Mrs. Bullock realizes that the two are in love and gives her blessing.
Cast
Alice Faye as Sylvia Landis, Gene Raymond as Charles Bullock, Adolphe Menjou as John Wiggin, Mary Boland as Mrs. Bullock, William Frawley as Mr. Bullock, and Charles D. Brown as Wilkins. Supporting cast members include Arthur Treacher, Eily Malyon, Edwin Maxwell, and Theresa Harris.
Production
Walking on Air was produced by Twentieth Century Fox, directed by Irving Cummings and written by Julius J. Epstein and Philip G. Epstein. The film was shot in black-and-white by cinematographer Ernest Palmer and was released on June 13, 1936. The film was released to generally favorable reviews and was moderately successful at the box office.
Musical Numbers
The film features several musical numbers, most notably “You’re Walking on Air,” which was written by Harry Warren and Mack Gordon. Other musical numbers include “I’m Gonna Have a Good Time Tonight” and “I’m in Love with a Millionaire”. All of the songs featured in the film were written by Harry Warren and Mack Gordon.
Reception
Walking on Air was released to generally favorable reviews. The New York Times critic Mordaunt Hall praised the film, calling it “a lively and entertaining comedy.” Hall also praised the performances of Alice Faye and Gene Raymond, calling their chemistry “irresistible”. Other critics praised the film’s lighthearted romance and its humorous dialogue. The film was moderately successful at the box office.
Legacy
Walking on Air remains a classic screwball romantic comedy, and is fondly remembered for its witty dialogue and winning performances. The film is also noteworthy for its memorable musical numbers, especially “You’re Walking on Air,” which has become a classic standard. The film has been released on DVD and is available for streaming on various platforms.
Conclusion
Walking on Air is a classic screwball romantic comedy that remains popular to this day. The film features memorable musical numbers, witty dialogue, and winning performances from Alice Faye and Gene Raymond. The film was released to generally favorable reviews and was moderately successful at the box office. Walking on Air is a charming and entertaining piece of cinema that is sure to delight fans of classic Hollywood films.