Go Into Your Dance

Broadway legend Al Jolson and his second wife Ruby Keeler costarred in this thin backstage musical. In keeping with Jolson's earlier starring films, the plotline is melodramatic to the point of risibility. Jolson plays an irresponsible performer whose unprofessional antics incur the wrath of Actor's Equity. Suspended from the stage, Jolson spends all his money on gambling, but is cured after his wife (Ruby) is wounded when Jolson shoots it out with a rival. Musical highlights include A Latin From Manhattan, A Quarter to Nine (Jolie's at his best here) and the title number. The script of Go Into Your Dance is predictably full of references to the offstage Jolson/Keeler relationship; reportedly, Al's on-set adlibs became more insulting and abusive as the marriage deteriorated.