Puddin' Head

In the old lexicon, a musical laugh riot. Saw a rare screening of this vintage Judy Canova romp tonight, and became an instant fan. Alma Kruger owns a radio network that builds a brand new HQ in New York accidentally, on several feet of land owned by the Goobers of Withering Heights, Arkansas. Husband Raymond Walbrun and son Eddie Foy Jr. go to Arkansas to buy the strip of land from Judy and father Slim Summerville at their general store. Judy is the telephone operator and has her own local radio show via the party line. Judy sings the title song to her phone customers and shatters glass with an operatic glissando at the end of the song. (This gag is repeated throughout the picture!) When the New Yorkers arrive, Judy wrongly assumes they want to buy the general store and proceeds to sell it to them, only to find out they really want the New York property she inherited recently. Judy and Slim move to New York to live in the suitably run-down mansion. They do battle with the slickers, and Judy has the last laugh in the end. Several great Judy Canova numbers, including a riotus song-and-dance with Eddie Foy poolside at his palatial home. Judy is like watching Minnie Pearl, Fanny Brice and Lily Pons all rolled up in one. Cornball, yes. But very entertaining considering it is a rare Republic non-cowboy musical. I am a city slicker, but can't wait to see more Judy. Canova, that is!

Puddin' Head may be too corny for today's audiences, but it's still fun and amusing.