The Canary Comes Across 1938
In this quirky 21-minute musical short, *The Canary Comes Across* (1938) delivers a playful tale of mistaken identity and rivalry behind bars.
Director: Will Jason
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Canary Comes Across (1938) about?
A smooth-talking inmate with a golden voice escapes prison, only to return incognito and discover an opera singer who looks just like him stealing the show—and the warden's daughter's affection. As jealousy simmers, the prisoner must decide between revenge and redemption in this lighthearted musical short.
Who directed The Canary Comes Across?
The film was directed by Will Jason, known for his work in short-form musical comedies during the late 1930s.
Who stars in The Canary Comes Across?
The film features Erik Rhodes, Virginia Grey, Maurice Black, Oscar O'Shea, and George Cooper in its core cast.
Is The Canary Comes Across (1938) worth watching?
While it's a short, this 1938 musical offers a fun blend of mistaken identity and lighthearted prison shenanigans. Fans of vintage musicals will appreciate its cheerful tone and brief runtime, though it's best enjoyed as a curiosity rather than a classic.
How long is The Canary Comes Across?
The Canary Comes Across runs for 21 minutes, making it a quick, digestible watch for modern audiences.
About The Canary Comes Across (1938) — A Musical Escape with Double Trouble Behind Bars
In this quirky 21-minute musical short, *The Canary Comes Across* (1938) delivers a playful tale of mistaken identity and rivalry behind bars. Directed by Will Jason, the film follows a jailed crooner with a golden voice who escapes prison—only to return incognito and watch in frustration as an opera singer who looks just like him becomes the toast of the warden's glee club. The story twists when Ann, the warden's musically inclined daughter, takes a shine to the new arrival, stoking the jealous prisoner's resentment. With its blend of lighthearted prison antics and melodic charm, the film captures the absurdity of sibling-like resemblance and the cutthroat world of amateur prison performances.
Erik Rhodes and Virginia Grey headline the cast, bringing charisma and comedic timing to their roles, while Maurice Black and Oscar O'Shea add depth to the ensemble. The film's musical genre shines through its glee-club dynamics and vocal showcases, wrapping the narrative in a feel-good atmosphere that's equal parts silly and surprisingly heartfelt. Whether you're a fan of vintage musicals or just curious about this unusual premise, *The Canary Comes Across* offers a brisk, entertaining escape into 1930s cinema magic.