Song of the Day #4,441: ‘Ol’ Man River’ – Paul Robeson

Continuing my personal ranking of the 25 movie musicals deemed essential by the American Film Institute…

#14. Show Boat – 1936
(#24 on the AFI list)

Most of the 25 movies on this list were pretty easy to find, either included on streaming services or available for rent. A couple of these titles proved more difficult to watch, including director James Whale’s 1936 film, Show Boat.

I almost watched the 1951 version of the film by accident (it’s easily streamed) before a second look at AFI’s list revealed that they singled out the 1936 release. My wife started an amusing debate by suggesting I just watch that one instead.

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