The Story

When young Jerome Kern (Robert Walker), calls on music arranger James Hesler (Van Heflin), with an eye to becoming a song writer, neither of the two realizes that this meeting is destined to develop into one of the great friendships and partnerships of all time. Over dinner the two men discuss music and Kern’s rendition of several of his compositions convinces Hesler that the young man has what it takes.

But to convince Charles Frohman, then czar of the New York theater, is another matter. Kern haunts his offices, never managing to get farther than the reception room. He becomes convinced of one hard fact. Musical numbers and productions, to be hits and gain attention, must be imported from abroad.

Determined to succeed, young Kern decides to take the plunge. Hesler and his small daughter, Sally, are already in England. Jerry spends his last money on a third class ticket for Liverpool, to join them. There is a happy reunion of the old friends and Kern settles down immediately to work.

In England Kern finds much to inspire him in both the scenic beauty and the theatrical productions. A county fair in a North London suburb is so gay it gives Kern an idea for a number. He writes it – and the next day Hesler sells it to an English producer. It becomes one of the hit tunes of the Continent, and Jerome Kern is on his way. This hit is followed by others which sweep the London theatrical world.

But Kern soon finds that there is more than the London countryside to inspire him to new and beautiful tunes. Quite by chance, when his bicycle breaks down, he meets the lovely Eva Leale (Dorothy Patrick).

The romance is interrupted by Hesler when he reveals the astounding news that the unapproachable Charles Frohman, impressed with Kern’s numbers in the London shows, has commissioned him to write four tunes for a New York production.

Kern finds small glory or satisfaction in this – when he learns that he must sail for America next day, leaving Eva in England. Back in America there is no more trudging the sidewalks for young Kern. His songs are instantaneous hits – and he enjoys the patronage of Chares Frohman, and such other celebrities of the day as Victor Herbert.

At first only individual numbers appear in the various productions then gradually complete song and music scores. Finally triumphant, Jerome Kern books passage for London again, only this time with the express purpose of making Eva Leale his wife.

Back in America once more, Kern launches on the really great phase of his career, always inspired by his wife. His happiness is marred only by worry over Hesler’s daughter, Sally (Lucille Bremer) now grown to lovely young womanhood. Disappointment over a stage role causes Sally to disappear. Determined to prove that she can make her own way, she goes from one job to another, but still her friends are unable to find her. One hit show follows another – the Kern goes to Hollywood. At the filming of a number using his songs he is introduced to a young star about to make her screen debut. It is Sally Hesler.

(Copyright MGM Production Facts 1947 Edition)

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