Plot: What’s it about?
This seventy-six minute piece, which is hosted by David Steinberg (The End, Tv’s The David Steinberg Show), takes a look at the glamour and glitz that come with the movie business. This one looks at the stars and their careers, as they go from simple performers to huge success stories, sometimes in a matter of no time at all. The process of making someone a star is also touched upon, which gives a glimpse behind the velvet ropes and lines of paparazzi. And after a peek at the stars, we’re given the full treatment when this piece looks at the art of public appearance, from movie premieres to simple autograph sessions. Then we’re taken behind the scenes even more, as the process of selling the movie is shown, from banners, to ads, to all sorts of other devices. You’ll also see how the debut of sound and color changed the movie business, in both technical and creative terms. This piece is loaded with star talent also, such as Errol Flynn, Frank Sinatra, Bette Davis, Clark Gable, Humphrey Bogart, and a wealth of other top notch performers.
I wasn’t sure what to expect from this disc, but I was pleased with the content and presentation. This documentary was very well made and features a lot of rare footage, which should draw in a wealth of films fans here. You’ll see shots from movie premieres, candid events, and other usually unseen reels, which adds a lot of value and interest to this release. Most of the stars come from a certain era and as such, those who like that period will be most interested, but I think anyone who loves films and movie stars will have a lot to like with Showbiz Ballyhoo. I wasn’t too impressed with host David Steinberg, but once I pushed him out of my mind, I was able to enjoy this feature, although I do think it runs a little short at seventy-six minutes. Even so, this piece packs in a lot of information and footage, which makes the brief running time seem a little longer in the end. The disc is decent enough in terms of video and audio, but no supplements have been included. I liked this documentary and while I don’t think I will feel the need to view it again, I think this release is more than worth a rental.
Video: How does it look?
Showbiz Ballyhoo is presented in a full frame transfer, which is how the documentary was meant to be seen. The clips included here look decent enough, but since the materials range in age, some of course look better than others. The original sequences look good also, although somewhat dated, as colors seem a little faded. But given the nature of this piece, I think this transfer more than handles the basics. So I doubt you’ll be blown away by this image, but it looks good enough overall, so no complaints.
Audio: How does it sound?
This is a documentary piece, so audio is not a serious presence here, aside from dialogue and narration. The movie clips sound decent enough, but don’t expect them to sound as crisp as a more dedicated mix would be, of course. The narration is sold enough, clean and always easy to understand, which is about all you can ask for in this case. Again, this mix won’t make you dive for cover, but it handles the material with ease.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc contains no bonus materials.
