Public Jitterbug No. 1 1938
In *Public Jitterbug No. 1 (1938)*, director Joseph Henabery crafts a lively, fast-paced musical short that tackles the mid-century dance craze with humor and energy.
Director: Joseph Henabery
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Public Jitterbug No. 1 (1938) about?
This 1938 musical short comedy follows a government agent on a mission to uncover the leader of the jitterbug dance craze, known as Public Jitterbug No. 1. Undercover in Broadway dance halls, he encounters a mysterious dancer whose true motives remain unclear. The film blends satire with energetic musical numbers in a snappy 21-minute runtime.
Who directed Public Jitterbug No. 1?
Joseph Henabery directed *Public Jitterbug No. 1*. Known for his work in both silent and early talkie films, Henabery brings a dynamic, fast-paced style to this musical comedy.
Who stars in Public Jitterbug No. 1?
The film stars Betty Hutton as Betty, Hal Le Roy as Hal Sturges, with supporting roles from Chaz Chase and Tom Emerson.
Is Public Jitterbug No. 1 (1938) worth watching?
As a 1938 musical short, *Public Jitterbug No. 1* offers a fun, time-capsule glimpse into the swing era's rebellious spirit. While it's not a high-stakes drama, its snappy pacing and lively performances make it a charming watch for classic film enthusiasts or anyone who enjoys vintage musicals.
How long is Public Jitterbug No. 1?
*Public Jitterbug No. 1* has a runtime of 21 minutes.
About Public Jitterbug No. 1 (1938) — A 1930s musical satire on wild dancing
In *Public Jitterbug No. 1 (1938)*, director Joseph Henabery crafts a lively, fast-paced musical short that tackles the mid-century dance craze with humor and energy. The film follows Hal Sturges, a secret government agent infiltrating Broadway dance halls to uncover the mastermind behind the rebellious jitterbug craze—a figure dubbed Public Jitterbug No. 1. Disguised as a performer, Hal navigates the vibrant underworld of dance clubs, where the music pulses and the crowds move in wild, unrestrained sync. His investigation takes an unexpected turn when he encounters Betty, an alluring dancer whose innocence masks a deeper connection to the mystery. As alliances shift and the beat drops, the line between hunter and hunted blurs in this delightful snapshot of 1930s nightlife.
Shot in just 21 minutes, *Public Jitterbug No. 1* packs a surprising punch, blending satire with the infectious rhythms of swing-era America. The film's playful premise—a government crackdown on wild dancing—serves as a backdrop for Hal Le Roy's charismatic lead as Sturges, while Betty Hutton shines as the enigmatic Betty. With its snappy dialogue, energetic choreography, and a dash of mischief, this short is a nostalgic gem for fans of classic musicals and anyone who's ever lost themselves to the irresistible pull of a dance floor.