The Jolson Story 1946
"The Music... The Magic... The Times... of America's Greatest Entertainer."
Directed by Alfred E. Green, *The Jolson Story* (1946) dives into the electrifying rise of Al Jolson, America's most dynamic entertainer at the dawn of the 20th century.
Director: Alfred E. Green
Cast
Larry Parks
Al Jolson
Evelyn Keyes
Julie Benson
William Demarest
Steve Martin
Bill Goodwin
Tom Baron
Ludwig Donath
Cantor Yoelson
Scotty Beckett
Asa Yoelson
Tamara Shayne
Mrs. Yoelson
Jo-Carroll Dennison
Ann Murray
John Alexander
Lew Dockstader
Ernest Cossart
Father McGee
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Jolson Story (1946) about?
The film follows Asa Yoelson as he defies his father's wishes and reinvents himself as Al Jolson, chasing stardom on the vaudeville circuit. Along the way, he grapples with fame's pitfalls, ego clashes, and the personal toll of his meteoric success in early 20th-century show business.
Who directed The Jolson Story?
Alfred E. Green directed *The Jolson Story*, bringing a steady hand to this vibrant musical drama about one of entertainment's most iconic figures.
Who stars in The Jolson Story?
The film stars Larry Parks as Al Jolson, with Evelyn Keyes, William Demarest, Bill Goodwin, and Scotty Beckett rounding out the ensemble cast.
Is The Jolson Story (1946) worth watching?
For fans of classic musical dramas, *The Jolson Story* offers a compelling mix of nostalgia and drama. While it may lack modern CGI spectacle, its heartfelt portrayal of ambition and sacrifice makes it a rewarding watch for those interested in the roots of American entertainment.
How long is The Jolson Story?
The runtime of *The Jolson Story* is 128 minutes, or just over two hours of cinematic biographical drama.
About The Jolson Story (1946) — A Musical Biography of Al Jolson's Dazzling Rise
Directed by Alfred E. Green, *The Jolson Story* (1946) dives into the electrifying rise of Al Jolson, America's most dynamic entertainer at the dawn of the 20th century. Fresh from a clash with his cantor father over a future in show business, young Asa Yoelson reinvents himself as Al Jolson and storms the vaudeville circuit with raw, charismatic energy. His journey from obscurity to superstardom is marked by blackface minstrelsy, soaring musical performances, and the relentless pursuit of fame—amplified by a growing ego that threatens his personal and professional equilibrium. Set against a backdrop of glittering theaters and societal shifts, this biographical drama captures the dazzle and drama of an era when showmanship reigned supreme.
This classic musical drama weaves together themes of ambition, identity, and sacrifice, all anchored by Jolson's magnetic performances. As his star climbs, so do the costs—strained relationships and ethical dilemmas threaten to eclipse his legacy. With a nostalgic yet candid lens, the film celebrates the man behind the legendary voice while confronting the complexities of his meteoric ascent.
