Cabin in the Sky (1943)

 Vincente Minnelli's "Cabin in the Sky"


Vincente Minnelli's directorial debut, 1943's "Cabin in the Sky" is a very unique picture in that it contains a all-black cast. This obviously caused a lot of controversy, especially in the southern states. Despite racial tension over the film's release, it ended up making a profit for MGM in the amount of $587,000. 

The film details the moral fight over a man's soul. Little Joe, a well-meaning gambler, gets killed over his gambling debts by a group of gangsters. Little Joe's soul is resurrected on the condition that he get one final chance to redeem his soul. The son of Satan and 'The General' make a wager over Joe's soul and play various games to tempt and/or redeem Joe.

"Cabin in the Sky" is full of musical numbers, in typical Minnelli style. Although this film doesn't quite have the signature Minnelli flare, it is a great starting point for the soon illustrious filmmaker. On top of that, the film is quite significant in its non-stereotype portrayal of the black community, even receiving approval by the NAACP. 



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