Billy Rose's JUMBO (1962) | Classic Hollywood Week

Jumbo is a movie I grew up watching at Grandma's house while I ate a popsicle on a green tied quilt. Therefore, with such a beginning I'd like to tell you about a movie I love about the Greatest Show On Earth. But before I get into the meat of the review Jumbo is a circus movie, but for those of you who don't like clowns (like me, :P) or other aspects of the circus--don't scratch this movie off your list quite yet! Please? :)

"Why he's like a son to me; you can even see the resemblance."

Pop Wonder (Jimmy Durante), is the boss, the ringmaster, of the show. Or at least, he's supposed to be, most of the responsibility of running the show is usually left for his daughter Kitty (Doris Day). Pop doesn't take himself seriously and unfortunately, he's rather irresponsible with funds which leaves the Wonder Circus on a hit and run schedule. Not only do his decisions affect the finances, the finances affect his employees who are quickly being bought up by a rival circus! This leaves the ever talented Kitty to wear many hats for the show.

Tossed in among the family is Pop's enduring girlfriend Lulu (Martha Raye), who is the local fortune-teller. And a very loyal girlfriend she is too because the poor girl has been engaged for fourteen years! But her sense of humor is PRICELESS! (And sadly, I can't find a good picture of the hysterical girl.) Here's a quote instead of a picture.

"I had a growing pain the other day. It went sideways."

~Lulu

And then there's Sam Rawlings (Stephen Boyd=great voice), who is just 'looking for a job'. ;) Turns out this isn't the only circus he has run and he becomes a Jack-of-all-trades for the Wonder's. A job that Kitty willingly relinquishes. Okay, more like embarrassingly relinquishes. And for whatever reason, Sam repeatedly resists Kitty's attention creating funny and sometimes embarrassing situations.

Along with this talented cast you'll see many wonders that come naturally with the circus life. High-flying, tight-rope walking, and a trained elephant (Jumbo) with a sense of humor, are the easiest to explain. However some of my favorite stunts in the show are acts that I can't identify.

This scene, for example, is way fun!

And now for a few little teaser mentions here to try to sell you on this favorite of mine. For those with a musical bend, you're in luck! It is a kind of musical. There is a scene of rescue from boisterous rain. (*Cordy smiles widely in approval*) Quick clever lines, (you really need to watch the show a few times to experience the great dialogue), a fortunately hilarious mishap with a cannon and a moonlight conversation.

Don't forget to check out Rose's blog for more Classic Hollywood fun!

Yours truly,
Cordy