Review of Broadway Danny Rose

Introduction

Woody Allen is the eponymous Broadway Danny Rose in this 1984 comedy, shot in black and white in his beloved New York. Allen won the Screenplay BAFTA and Academy nominations for Best Screenplay and Best Director for this film, which also stars Mia Farrow as the object of his affections. Danny Rose is a former stand-up comic turned showbiz agent who strictly deals in second-rate acts. When his top act, a has-been crooner, suddenly becomes flavour of the month he scents success. Unfortunately, matters are complicated by the singer`s mistress and entanglements with the Mob.

Video

The transfer of this movie is adequate, considering the use of black-and-white, available-light film stock.

Audio

A disappointing Dolby Digital Mono masquerading as Stereo.

Features

Only the original theatrical trailer and subtitles.

Conclusion

This isn`t as entertaining a movie as much of Woody Allen`s output. The story is told largely in flashback and the images are almost too monochrome for comfort. It`s hard on the eyes, and lacks the sheer charm of movies like "Radio Days" or the zest of "Bananas" (or should that be peel?).

This is one for the die-hard fans.