"They Shall Have Music," starring HEIFETZ: anyone seen it?

[Wallingford]

I duped it off of AMC many years ago: surprisingly credible plot, concering an inner-city NYC youth orchestra program, spearheaded by an idealistic couple who--miraculously (admittedly)--manage to get Jascha himself to help sponsor it.

Released in that magical movie year of 1939 (guaranteeing a certain measure of quality), it does have a few of the predictable Hollywood plot turns, but there is realism, including the chief hero youth whose stepdad was abusive; also, said youth was involved with the pawning of Heifetz' astronomically pricey violin.

Anyone have any perceptions on this movie?

[moldyoldie]

It's been awhile, but I recall having the impression of it being a Heifetz promotional. I did enjoy the performance of the youth orchestra (Dvořák?) and the kid was credible. Who played the headmaster of the school? I want to say Harry Morgan (Col. Potter in M*A*S*H), but I don't think that's right.

(edit)
Ah, I just looked it up -- Walter Brennan.

It's sort of an anti-Haydn story. The young Haydn was kicked out on his keister when his voice changed!

[Lance]

I'm trying to remember this one, Neil. I've seen Heifetz in several movies. He actually doesn't do a bad job as an actor, except, perhaps a little "stiff" here and there.

[Wallingford]

I'm trying to remember this one, Neil. I've seen Heifetz in several movies. He actually doesn't do a bad job as an actor, except, perhaps a little "stiff" here and there.

Of course, he's enough of a presence in his virtuoso scenes....and the fact these kids (in the story) were not only watching a film of him playing, but finally seeing the man himself, makes it an endearing story. The script is ideally tailored to his limited acting ability.

Not a masterpiece, but a nice, second-echelon film.

[Wallingford]

Here's a link so you can begin watching it:

http://www.youtube.com/results?search_q ... shall+have