The Eddy Duchin Story (1956)(Region 2 DVD)

Synopsis: A deeply satisfying weepie, filmed in CinemaScope, about the New York society pianist struck down by leukaemia in his prime. Though the actual illness isn't named, the scenes in which Duchin, sympathetically portrayed by a mature Tyrone Power, takes leave of his son (Rex Thompson from The King and I) are unbearably moving.

This is a film strong on romance, and Power's relationship with the lovely Kim Novak is superbly orchestrated by director George Sidney against exquisite New York locations in autumnal colours to the backing of Rodgers and Hart's evergreen Manhattan.

Sidney, who also directed Anchors Aweigh, Show Boat and Annie Get Your Gun, knows a thing or three about musicals, while the actual piano-playing is cleverly done by Carmen Cavallero, who mimics and updates Duchin's style.

Cast: Tyrone Power, Kim Novak
Runtime: 117 min