1941 Hellzapoppin in 4K

Hellzapoppin’ (1941) is a wild and chaotic comedy film, directed by H.C. Potter, based on the successful Broadway musical of the same name. The film features frenetic slapstick humor, breaking of the fourth wall, and zany gags that blend vaudeville, surrealism, and satire. The story follows the characters Ole and Chic, played by Ole Olsen and Chic Johnson, as they attempt to make a movie adaptation of their stage show. Along the way, they run into various absurd scenarios and characters, including miscommunications with the film’s director and behind-the-scenes antics. A standout scene is the Lindy Hop dance sequence, considered one of the most iconic swing dance performances on film. Danced by Whitey’s Lindy Hoppers, the routine is fast, acrobatic, and showcases the height of Lindy Hop’s energy and style, making it a defining moment of both the movie and swing dance history. Hellzapoppin’ is known for its innovative and unconventional approach to filmmaking, with a self-aware plot, frequent breaking of the fourth wall, and a mix of reality and absurdity that was ahead of its time.