Second Fiddle

'Second Fiddle' with a good cast and one of the greatest song-writers in Irving Berlin had a lot going for it. It isn't completely successful, but a vast majority of it does work very well.

Its weak link is the story, which, as well as thin structurally, does jump about all over the place in parts giving it a rather strange feel. Berlin's songs are pleasant enough, with the Oscar-nominated "I Poured My Heart Into a Song" and "Back to Back" being the standouts, but generally it is not one of Berlin's better song scores.

However, it's exquisitely photographed and sumptuously designed. The skating sequences (almost as good as the ones in 'One in a Million) are a joy and brilliantly choreographed, making one's jaw drop with their imagination and verve, with Sonja Henie and Stewart Reburn more than doing them justice. The script is fun, especially Edna May Oliver's, and there is an exuberant energy throughout.

The cast fare very well. Henie is pert and charming, and the camera clearly loves her. Her ice skating is also out of this world, and she forms a great partnership with Reburn. Tyrone Power is a more than worthy partner with his handsome looks and appealing charisma. Edna May Oliver steals scenes in a hilarious performance, while Rudy Vallee and Mary Healy sing Berlin's songs beautifully.

Overall, a good film, despite the story, that is not first rate but a long way from second fiddle. 8/10 Bethany Cox