Made in 1945, THE ALL STAR BOND RALLY was directed by Michael Audley and features Hollywood stars promoting the sales of War Bonds through songs and skits. The short subject film was produced by 20th Century Fox for the Department of the Treasury and presented by the Motion Picture Industry’s War Activities Committee. The storyline follows radio’s Fibber McGee and Molly as they attend the all-star bond rally of the title. The show is MC’d by veteran comedian Bob Hope, who of course tells some jokes while introducing the various acts. First up is Betty Grable, who sings and dances to “I’ll Be Marching to a Love Song.” Next, Frank Sinatra is reunited with Harry James and his orchestra to perform “Saturday Night (Is the Loneliest Night of the Week).” Then, Harpo Marx runs in, in typical fashion — chasing a girl and honking his horn, but he soon sits down to play a serious number on the harp. For something a little bit different, the next segment is devoted to pin-up girls. A number of servicemen are looking at pictures and dreaming when the pictures come to life and talk back to them. The stars featured in this sketch include Linda Darnell, Faye Marlowe, Jeanne Crain, June Haver, Vivian Blaine, and Carmen Miranda. Finally, Bing Crosby shows up and goes for the subtle approach, singing a song called “Buy, Buy Bonds.” The music and fun is interrupted at a couple of points when Hope and Crosby hit us with solemn speeches. Buy, buy bonds, folks!

Full cast includes:

Bob Hope, Jeanne Crain, Bing Crosby, Linda Darnell, Betty Grable, Harry James and His Orchestra, June Haver, Jim Jordan, Marian Jordan, Glenn Langan, Faye Marlowe, Harpo Marx, Carmen Miranda, Almira Sessions, Frank Sinatra, and Jane Nigh.

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This film is part of the Periscope Film LLC archive, one of the largest historic military, transportation, and aviation stock footage collections in the USA. Entirely film backed, this material is available for licensing in 24p HD and 2k. For more information visit http://www.PeriscopeFilm.com