This short film is included as a special feature with the Judy Garland film "Introducing Lily Mars". Like so many MGM releases, a couple of shorts that debuted the same year as the feature are included--this one and a cartoon.
Aside from Eric Blore (who is wonderful as always), the actors and actresses in this one are minor MGM actors who are pretty much unknowns today. The idea back then was to try out short films with potential stars and give them a chance to show their stuff. While Frederick Brady sang nicely, apparently he didn't connect with the audiences and mostly played minor roles during his career.
The film begins in Heaven. Brady stands before the pearly gates and is met by Blore. He is then introduced to some very famous composers like Tchaikovsky and Beethoven--as Brady is a musician himself. They want him to sing--and when he does, it doesn't seem like the singing is coming from him (he could have improved his lip syncing a bit). The old time composers are angered, as they hear parts of their music in Brady's compositions--and he then goes on to say that ALL music bears similarities to each other--as the room breaks into an argument. Can they work out their differences and let him join their ranks? How about if a cute angel helps give him inspiration? Overall, this is a decent time-passer. While it's chock full of music, the plot makes it more palatable. Plus although he has trouble keeping his lips in sync, Brady did have a lovely voice.
By the way, if this is Heaven, why does Beethoven STILL have a problem with deafness? Can't they fix something like that?!
