Calling the Tune - 1936

Calling the Tune offers a fascinating look at the fledgeling gramophone industry as it tries to solve the problems of reliable recording and production methods. 'I predict that the gramophone will be the democratic entertainment of the future' states unscrupulous record label boss Mr Gordon (Sam Livesey), who finally gets his comeuppance after one dirty trick too far against his rivals. If the film's love story is perfunctory, the real interest comes with watching performers of the day, from Henry Wood and his orchestra to George Robey and Charles 'the laughing policeman' Penrose laying down their recordings direct to record. And something very like a prototype laser disc makes a crucial appearance too.

80min
1936
Released
Trakio rating0.0/10
IMDB rating5.7/10

Cast

Sally Gray profile pictureSally GrayMargaret Gordon
Clifford Evans profile pictureClifford EvansPeter Mallory
Donald Wolfit profile pictureDonald WolfitDick Finlay
Eliot Makeham profile pictureEliot MakehamStephen Harbord
Lewis Casson profile pictureLewis CassonJohn Mallory
George Robey profile pictureGeorge RobeyCameo appearance

About Calling the Tune

Calling the Tune Overview

Calling the Tune offers a fascinating look at the fledgeling gramophone industry as it tries to solve the problems of reliable recording and production methods. 'I predict that the gramophone will be the democratic entertainment of the future' states unscrupulous record label boss Mr Gordon (Sam Livesey), who finally gets his comeuppance after one dirty trick too far against his rivals. If the film's love story is perfunctory, the real interest comes with watching performers of the day, from Henry Wood and his orchestra to George Robey and Charles 'the laughing policeman' Penrose laying down their recordings direct to record. And something very like a prototype laser disc makes a crucial appearance too.

Runtime: 80min

Extra details

Original Title: Calling the Tune
Original Language: English
Directed By: Reginald Denham
Production Companies
Independent Film Producers (IFP)Phoenix Films