Wake Up and Dream

Rather routine fanfare of a young girl in pursuit of her missing navy brother during World War 11. John Payne and June Haver top the cast of this rather benign film. Where exactly is this young girl and group pursuing Payne? This is never fully explained and is ridiculous at best. Charlotte Greenwood, a wonderful dancer and performer in general, is given so little to do as the wife of the old timer who makes the boat. Of all people, John Ireland appears in a supporting role as a dentist without a degree who joins in the search. Naturally, he has romantic designs on Haver, who loves Payne. The film mercifully ends without this being dealt with. How fortunate for all concerned.

"Wake Up and Dream" is not a film for everyone. This is because the plot is VERY schmaltzy and might make some cringe...while others will enjoy the movie. Don't say I didn't warn you! The film begins with Jeff (John Payne) going off to war. He leaves his little sister behind (even though he had a deferment since he was her sole caretaker) and promises if he's lost, he'll be 'waiting on their island'...whatever that means. Well, soon he is missing in action and the young sister goes off on a hairbrained search for him. While this is hard to believe, adults agreeing to go with her on a boating trip from the Midwest does seem amazingly far-fetched! Does it get more difficult to believe? You betcha! I enjoyed most of the film despite its heavy infusion of schmaltz. However, the ending really laid it on thick...too thick...to the point where it became a bit annoying and ridiculous. Decent acting but I just couldn't love this film despite all its good qualities.

The cast is top-drawer, the songs are great and the color is brilliant in this war-time fable of a little girl searching for her brother, listed MIA during WWII. The predictable story is presented in interesting fashion, laced with some good songs, especially a rendition of "Off To See The Wizard." Also of interest is the performance by a very young John Ireland, in a non-action role. Never destined to be a classic, it is still good viewing for kids and adults.