Footlight Parade (1933) – Human Waterfall
“Footlight Parade” is a classic American pre-Code musical film released in 1933, directed by Lloyd Bacon and starring James Cagney, Joan Blondell, Ruby Keeler, and Dick Powell. The film is renowned for its elaborate musical numbers and witty dialogue, typical of the Warner Bros. productions of the era.
In “Footlight Parade,” James Cagney plays the role of Chester Kent, a theater producer facing tough times due to the advent of talking pictures. To adapt to the changing industry landscape, Kent decides to shift his focus to producing live prologues, short stage performances that precede the screening of films in movie theaters.
One of the most memorable sequences in the film is the “Human Waterfall” number. In this scene, Kent (Cagney) orchestrates a spectacular performance involving synchronized swimmers. The performers create intricate patterns and formations while diving and swimming in a large pool on stage, creating the illusion of a cascading waterfall. The choreography and execution of the routine are visually stunning and demonstrate the technical prowess of the performers.
“Footlight Parade” is celebrated for its dynamic musical sequences, including the “Human Waterfall,” which showcases the creativity and innovation of the filmmakers during the golden age of Hollywood musicals. The film remains a beloved classic and a testament to the enduring appeal of the genre.
October 12, 2022 @ 2:32 pm
So beautiful .. lovely walk down memory lane … My brother, my children and I were just talking about the sad decline of “intertainment” of today .. all of the truly great movies and intertainers .. the really great actors and actors are gone .. so sad .. comic book quality compared with the talent of yesteryear intertainment. Thank you for bringing back the memories .. I will definitely be sharing this bit of memory and talent thank you
June 5, 2021 @ 8:53 pm
This was before the big implant popularity, ( That is different…but so are the Heels!!) Oh my, times gone by!
June 5, 2021 @ 11:02 am
The days of true talent.
Today’s girls wouldn’t get their face wet
Don’t have the bodies or discipline and don’t want to be told, they wanna control
Where, when and how ($$$).
This would be corny.
No ladies, this was ART and true TALENT
What beautiful choreography.
Miss All Of It today.
February 5, 2021 @ 6:07 pm
I’m 83 and can’t believe how I can enjoy water ballet by looking at your website. We don’t have the likes of entertainment by the famous Easter Williams and others of her wonderful coordinated music and water entertainment. Thank for scenes of yesterday which was so much warmer and friendlier than today.
May 21, 2020 @ 3:39 pm
Fabulous, just fabulous…
May 20, 2020 @ 7:28 pm
I loved watching this. Too bad we can’t have entertainment like this now days. I also love the older movies.
May 19, 2020 @ 6:53 pm
Surprised at the beautiful costumes and the choreography was outstanding. gorgeous women and fantastic swimming.
May 19, 2020 @ 11:58 am
Holy holy Cow the exacting choreography with water resistance alone is incredible. Had forgotten the magnificent cinema of days gone by.
May 19, 2020 @ 9:23 am
BEAUTIFUL AND VERY REFRESHING.