The Amazing Mrs Holliday (1943)(dvd)

Synopsis: The fact that Jean Renoir, the great French director exiled in the US, was considered to be the right man for this sentimental vehicle for the wholesome singing star Deanna Durbin is an example of the mysterious ways in which the minds of Hollywood moguls work. However, after four weeks work, Renoir decided to withdraw diplomatically on grounds of health. What remains is a superficial film that exploits the theme of war orphans for entertainment. Yet Durbin does well in the challenging role of an American missionary in China who smuggles nine Chinese children back to the States.

Yet for all this, it was a spectacular flop, as audiences tired of the early sound era's musical boom.

Cast: Deanna Durbin, Edmond O'Brien
Runtime: 93 min