DVD Corner

The Fabulous Dorseys Blu-ray Review

“The Fabulous Dorseys” doesn’t have much to say.  

Based on real events and a newspaper article, 1947’s “The Fabulous Dorseys” is a biopic about musicians and brothers Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey. The Art Arthur and Curtis Kenyon scripted film chronicles their lives from their childhood in Pennsylvania onward. We learn that their father (a music teacher and coal miner) was instrumental in teaching his sons music with the hope that they will have a better life. Despite quarreling, Tommy and Jimmy are gifted musicians even in their youth with Jimmy being a saxophone player and Tommy perfecting the trombone. Cut to their adulthood and Tommy and Jimmy are attempting to make it in a band together alongside longtime friend Jane. After some struggles, they find success thanks to radio and concerts. Eventually though, the brothers’ persistent fighting causes Tommy and Jimmy to split and start their own swing jazz orchestral groups. Will the two ever make up?

Directed by Alfred E. Green, “The Fabulous Dorseys” is certainly a highly unusual biopic in that both Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey play themselves in the adult era. The problem is neither of them can act (especially Tommy Dorsey). From a historical perspective, it is fascinating to see the two act in a film together given their history. Yes, both achieved great success on their own, but how weird must it have been to confront their own past to make this movie? That thought is more interesting than the film itself. 

As a biopic, there is little of substance here. The music (while great) takes a backseat to the family drama (which is undoubtedly watered down for the time period). Sure, there are notable performances and cameos by jazz greats like Art Tatum and Paul Whitehead, but it would have been preferable had the narrative focused more on the music. It’s even more frustrating that a subplot involving Jane and a pianist (Robert) eats up valuable screen time even if Jane actress Janet Blair is far and away the best part cast member in the motion picture.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 1.37:1 1080p. How does it look? The restored in HD B&W film certainly benefits from improved image quality, but there are many defects throughout including scratches and lines (including one that goes straight down the middle of the screen for a chunk of time).

Audio Track: 2.0 DTS-HD MA. How does it sound? The audio is a little soft but satisfactory.

No extras.

June 28, 2025 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Jazz Music, Jimmy Dorsey, The Fabulous Dorseys Blu-ray Review, Tommy Dorsey