Yankee Doodle Dandy

en
00:01:24 I call it a hit.
00:01:26 - I like it too, so I guess I'll pan it.
00:01:31 My publisher resents Cohan
00:01:34 Says our young readers dream
00:01:37 "I'd rather be right than be president."
00:01:46 - See how George does it at his age.
00:01:50 Congratulations, George, old boy.
00:01:53 - Thanks.
00:01:55 - You had him down to a tee.
00:01:59 Imitating the president,
00:02:02 It's good, clean fun.
00:02:04 Never could do anything wrong in Boston.
00:02:07 Greatest man in the U.S. Played by the
00:02:11 Especially when the greatest actor
00:02:13 - This could be treason.
00:02:16 A lot of them would like
00:02:18 Save these telegrams.
00:02:21 You've got a list with everybody
00:02:24 - We'll bring him in.
00:02:26 - Will you read our cleverness?
00:02:29 I didn't know there was that much love left
00:02:32 Hold that. Thank you. Thank you.
00:02:35 - Don't bother me.
00:02:38 - Well, that bothers me.
00:02:39 You read it.
00:02:42 "George M. Cohan,
00:02:45 The president requests that you call
00:02:48 ...in regard to a personal matter.
00:02:50 Kindly reply for definite appointment
00:02:54 Stephen T. Early,
00:02:58 There you are, Sam.
00:03:02 Coming at a time like this,
00:03:05 ...this is not just a casual invitation.
00:03:08 - I think we're in trouble.
00:03:10 They don't telegraph you
00:03:13 - He doesn't get up that early.
00:03:16 Fine time to make lame jokes.
00:03:19 I'm worried, Sam.
00:03:21 I'm really worried.
00:03:39 Halt!
00:03:44 - What can I do for you?
00:03:46 - The name, please?
00:03:49 All right, sir. If you'll wait
00:03:56 This is Sgt. Lewis
00:04:01 - Good evening, Mr. Cohan.
00:04:04 - We've been expecting you.
00:04:10 Why, your coat's wet.
00:04:12 - Didn't you come in a car?
00:04:15 Washington's a great town to walk in.
00:04:18 Yes, indeed.
00:04:23 I was supposed to be off duty
00:04:26 ...but when I heard you was coming, I
00:04:30 - That depends on when you saw me last.
00:04:35 I was valet for Teddy Roosevelt.
00:04:38 He got me a seat up in the gallery.
00:04:42 ...and you was just singing and dancing
00:04:47 Mr. Teddy used to sing it in his bathtub.
00:04:50 - It was a good old song in its day.
00:04:52 And it's just as good today
00:05:00 Come in.
00:05:06 Well, hello there.
00:05:09 Your double isn't too sure.
00:05:12 - I was told you knew all the answers.
00:05:16 - Right now, I wish I did.
00:05:20 - Sit down, Mr. Cohan.
00:05:23 You know, I'm a little bit nervous.
00:05:25 - I'm sorry I missed the opening of your show.
00:05:29 Don't worry about it.
00:05:33 I think so.
00:05:35 Herald Tribune says that you make a better
00:05:40 Don't forget,
00:05:43 I can remember you and your family
00:05:48 Do you really?
00:05:50 Yes. It was while I was
00:05:54 I was a pretty cocky kid those days.
00:05:57 A regular Yankee Doodle Dandy.
00:06:01 - I hope you haven't outgrown the habit.
00:06:04 That's one thing I always admired
00:06:08 You carry your love of country like a flag,
00:06:13 I inherited that.
00:06:16 He ran away to the Civil War at 13. Proudest
00:06:21 So you've spent your life telling the
00:06:26 I never thought of it that way before,
00:06:30 And I lost no time either.
00:06:32 It started with a very funny incident
00:06:35 It was in Providence, Rhode Island,
00:06:38 There weren't so many stars then,
00:06:41 ... but folks knew more were coming.
00:06:43 They were optimistic,
00:06:46 The beginning of the Horatio Alger age.
00:07:03 My father played in a variety theater,
00:07:05 No one was more expectant than he was,
00:07:09 She was busy on a smaller production.
00:07:52 - Message come yet?
00:07:53 - Take a bow.
00:07:55 - Watch that border!
00:07:58 Oh, for heaven's sake, Jerry.
00:08:00 Take up number three.
00:08:03 - Bye, Sally.
00:08:07 - They'll put you in jail.
00:08:09 - Don't forget, you're on again at 4:15.
00:08:12 - These things take hours sometimes.
00:08:32 - Can I get through here?
00:08:36 - I'm not in the parade. I wanna get through.
00:08:49 You don't say!
00:08:51 Here, this'll give you courage.
00:09:07 Nellie.
00:09:19 - She all right?
00:09:21 What is it?
00:09:22 Well, all signs point to its being a boy.
00:09:33 He just got here,
00:09:36 All babies sleep 20 hours a day.
00:09:40 That's why most
00:09:43 - What'll we call him?
00:09:45 - What do you say?
00:09:49 ...what about George Washington Cohan?
00:09:52 Has a nice patriotic ring to it.
00:09:54 The George is fine, but the Washington
00:10:00 How about a nice, short Irish name?
00:10:03 George Michael Cohan.
00:10:08 Yes, I like that name.
00:10:12 Gosh, I forgot.
00:10:18 Hey! It's a boy!
00:10:23 Oh, Jerry.
00:10:30 Heavenly day, Nellie,
00:10:36 The first thing I ever had in my fist
00:10:39 I hitched my wagon to 38 stars
00:10:43 I was 6 or 7 before I realized they weren't
00:10:49 Then my folks had a real break when
00:10:52 She grew to love show business
00:10:56 We toured the kerosene circuit on a show
00:11:01 Everybody doubled in brass.
00:11:06 They teamed me with a donkey.
00:11:10 Mother and Josie threw out handbills.
00:11:12 Their smiles would've sold tickets
00:11:18 They kept putting new stars in the flag, and
00:11:23 We had jokes to match every cornfield.
00:12:47 We trouped through depression and inflation,
00:12:50 Froze in winter, and roasted in summer.
00:12:52 But it was a good life.
00:12:54 It's a lucky family
00:13:23 1891 found our fortunes
00:13:26 Then came jobs for the whole family
00:13:30 We opened in Brooklyn.
00:13:33 The town was known for spirited audiences
00:13:42 - Hammering on opening night!
00:13:45 - I'm the star of this play.
00:13:48 That means I'm a star...
00:13:49 ...and there should be a star on my
00:13:53 - Yes, Jerry, give the devil his due.
00:13:56 I'll go blank.
00:13:59 Don't worry. If you stick,
00:14:55 - It's to jail you're going, me boy.
00:14:58 Henry's not really a bad boy.
00:15:02 Mr. Schults, that should take care
00:15:05 Henry, I want you to promise
00:15:08 ...that from now on,
00:15:11 I'll promise, but I can still lick
00:15:36 - Fine work, Georgie.
00:15:39 - Great, Georgie. Great!
00:15:41 - Real piece of acting there.
00:15:44 - Boy, you sure rolled them in the aisles.
00:15:48 You could've told during rehearsals
00:15:51 Listen, there's nothing
00:15:54 I wonder what took me so long
00:15:57 Excuse me. Hey! Call rehearsal
00:16:01 Jerry, the time has come
00:16:04 That's right.
00:16:06 Not me. I don't hit hard enough
00:16:09 I can't do it. He'd think I'm jealous
00:16:12 Don't think I'm not, either.
00:16:15 Several gentlemen to see you outside,
00:16:20 Gentlemen of the press, I presume.
00:16:24 Will you excuse me?
00:16:30 Let's see how tough he is!
00:16:43 Ought to be arrested,
00:16:46 It seems to me you're taking this
00:16:49 Your own son almost murdered
00:16:52 The way I figure, it's a fine tribute
00:16:55 The way he plays the part,
00:16:57 ...will want to take a punch
00:17:00 What? Have I gotta go
00:17:03 Yes. And matinees Wednesdays
00:17:06 Georgie, those boys did you
00:17:09 ...and they saved me a lot of trouble.
00:17:11 Most actors give their whole lives
00:17:15 You're lucky.
00:17:18 I've been in this business a long time.
00:17:21 ...who in the long run wouldn't rather
00:17:24 That is, until I made your acquaintance.
00:17:27 Can't I be both?
00:17:29 Chances are, the way you're going,
00:17:32 If the hoodlums don't get you,
00:17:34 Actors are considered a very bad risk
00:17:38 Any actor with a conceit like yours,
00:17:43 What your father really means
00:17:46 You're too anxious to make good.
00:17:48 You love the theater too much.
00:17:50 Oh, I know you can improve
00:17:53 Sure I can. Just watch me.
00:17:55 From now on, I'm Peck's Bad Boy
00:17:58 - That's a boy, Georgie.
00:18:01 And don't forget, Wednesdays
00:18:05 Yes, sir. And the other 21 and a half hours,
00:18:09 Well, you could find a better example,
00:18:14 Jerry, what do you know!
00:18:17 - Albee!
00:18:20 That's bigtime vaudeville!
00:18:22 He didn't send for us.
00:18:24 It may be better
00:18:27 I thought you said
00:18:29 I'm sorry.
00:18:30 When he comes in,
00:18:33 - Look at the condition of this dressing room.
00:18:37 Hurry up!
00:18:38 Quick, Georgie!
00:18:40 Get the stuff off that shelf.
00:18:43 Albee will be right in.
00:18:47 If he offers you a cigar,
00:18:49 I'll take it. It'll impress him
00:18:51 - Get behind that curtain.
00:18:53 Hurry up! I don't wanna hear a word.
00:18:57 Josie, fix the chairs.
00:19:00 Here, take this.
00:19:01 Oh, Jerry.
00:19:04 - Sit down, Nellie. Sit down.
00:19:13 Come in.
00:19:15 Mr. E.F. Albee.
00:19:17 - Hello, Cohan.
00:19:20 How do you do?
00:19:21 - Sit down, Mr. Albee.
00:19:23 I saw your show tonight. Not bad.
00:19:27 Have a cigar?
00:19:28 No, thanks.
00:19:30 Your show's no good for vaudeville, but
00:19:34 We're opening a new theater in Philadelphia
00:19:38 If you fix up a good vaudeville act...
00:19:40 ...we'll double your salary, give ten weeks'
00:19:44 - Double our salary?
00:19:47 Vesta victoria, Eddie Foy, Ward & vokes,
00:19:51 Just a second.
00:19:53 I'm George M. Cohan. You're opening
00:19:57 - Yes, that's right.
00:20:01 That isn't why we're opening the theater.
00:20:03 The salary's all right,
00:20:05 ...to offer us third or fourth billing
00:20:09 Is this kid in your show?
00:20:11 Am I in the show! Who do you think
00:20:15 I beg your pardon.
00:20:18 You didn't? Then maybe you're not
00:20:21 - George!
00:20:22 Well, now, maybe I'm not.
00:20:24 Maybe you're not quite ready
00:20:29 Mrs. Cohan. Mr. Cohan.
00:20:32 Mr. Albee!
00:20:36 - How do you do, Mr. Albee?
00:20:38 - Can I call you a carriage?
00:20:40 Carriage for Mr. Albee!
00:20:43 You see what happens
00:20:46 A mother doesn't do any punishing.
00:20:49 Have I your permission?
00:20:51 You certainly have.
00:20:53 Shouldn't you get my permission too?
00:20:56 - Not on the hand, he has to play the violin!
00:20:59 Not on the mouth, he has to sing!
00:21:01 All right, not on the mouth.
00:21:06 Here's one place without any talent!
00:21:15 - Who were Lewis and Clark, George?
00:21:18 - Look at this swell write-up we got.
00:21:20 You found us whenever new states
00:21:23 We played every town in America
00:21:25 - Any mail for Mr. Cohan?
00:21:28 I mean for Mr. George M. Cohan.
00:21:32 The next 10 years rushed by
00:21:34 Dad seemed content with the sticks,
00:21:37 - Here's your mail, Mr. Cohan.
00:21:39 Couple of tickets for the show.
00:21:41 We were playing stock in Buffalo.
00:21:42 And being versatile,
00:21:46 - Oh, Daddy, he's left me.
00:21:50 In life we trip, but right ourselves.
00:21:54 I was correct about man's love.
00:21:56 First, he considers his pleasure
00:22:00 Only secondly does he think
00:22:04 Now I must go life's journey alone and
00:22:11 Courage, Emily, courage.
00:22:14 Living has taught your father
00:22:17 Among them,
00:22:21 The road to happiness is paved
00:22:52 They're all yours, sweetheart.
00:22:54 Good luck, honey.
00:23:26 There's a young lady. One of those
00:23:30 Show her in.
00:23:32 All right, miss.
00:23:34 - Mr. Cohan will see you.
00:23:37 He's all yours.
00:23:45 I'm 18. I sing and I dance,
00:23:48 Should I?
00:23:50 Oh, Mr. Cohan. You're so old,
00:23:54 ...so fatherly.
00:24:01 Do you think it's wise?
00:24:03 I mean, my being 18, singing
00:24:07 Well, that's very wise.
00:24:12 As for New York, The Four Cohans
00:24:17 ...with a new cyclorama
00:24:20 - Really? When are you leaving here?
00:24:24 Oh, I can't leave till Wednesday.
00:24:28 That's too bad.
00:24:30 Georgie... Excuse me. You haven't forgotten
00:24:34 Oh, no, no. Of course not.
00:24:38 Roller-skating on a night like this?
00:24:40 Why, there's a moon out.
00:24:42 I'll be ready in five minutes.
00:24:47 - Pipperino, isn't she?
00:24:50 - I'm not married.
00:24:53 She's just a kid with the show.
00:24:57 Isn't she a little too young for you?
00:25:00 No. She's getting along in years.
00:25:05 Well, shall I sing for you?
00:25:07 I know I have talent,
00:25:10 We haven't got any piano handy.
00:25:12 Then I'll dance.
00:25:21 That's rather old, isn't it?
00:25:24 You don't want to be just an imitator.
00:25:26 Oh, no.
00:25:32 But on the other hand, you don't want
00:25:36 - No.
00:25:38 You sit right here,
00:25:41 It may not be much. I'm not the dancer
00:25:45 Now watch carefully, now.
00:25:49 Oh, no, no!
00:25:51 - Don't you like it?
00:25:56 My heart is every bit as good
00:26:00 Oh, so fast!
00:26:06 - Sit down and rest.
00:26:07 Maybe I have overdone it a little.
00:26:09 Look at the perspiration on your brow.
00:26:13 Your wrinkles!
00:26:15 I do have to make up older
00:26:19 How old are you?
00:26:21 Not yet 70.
00:26:23 You seem different from when I first came in.
00:26:27 It's a gift I have.
00:26:31 And you've made me feel very young.
00:26:34 - Very young.
00:26:37 Now, let's make plans.
00:26:42 Erlanger? Good old Abe's a very nice fellow,
00:26:48 Tony Pastor?
00:26:50 Albee, Coster, Beall and Proctor...
00:26:56 Wait a minute, little girl. Don't let an old
00:27:00 In show business,
00:27:03 I'm not sure I wanna go
00:27:05 A girl with your talent and ability? There
00:27:09 How do you know I can do those?
00:27:12 I don't have to see you.
00:27:15 I feel as though I've known you
00:27:18 - Mary.
00:27:20 Now, Mary, you calm down.
00:27:23 I always eat after the last show.
00:27:26 I've been sitting in the theater since 2:00
00:27:30 You must be hungry after seven shows.
00:27:33 We'll have a nice cold bottle and a bird.
00:27:35 What's a cold bottle?
00:27:37 That's what we in show business
00:27:41 Aren't you going roller-skating
00:27:45 I'm tired of picking her up.
00:27:48 What's the matter, darling?
00:27:51 Got it.
00:28:48 Pretty good.
00:28:49 There's a contract on my desk already
00:28:52 Hey!
00:28:53 If any of The Four Cohans ask how
00:29:53 Ladies and gentlemen,
00:29:57 My father thanks you.
00:30:00 My sister thanks you.
00:30:02 And I thank you.
00:30:10 - Nice going.
00:30:13 All set up for you. Go get them.
00:30:15 After the way we went tonight
00:30:18 If we're a hit here,
00:30:21 - Nice going, kid.
00:30:22 Oh, Mr. Cohan, just a minute.
00:30:27 - They seemed to like it.
00:30:29 - Got any open time?
00:30:31 - I'll make an offer.
00:30:33 Fine. Fine. You know, they're always a
00:30:43 - Did you catch it?
00:30:45 - But I don't know, I miss that beard.
00:30:49 It's a lovely song, George.
00:30:51 Good. I rehearsed it with the orchestra.
00:30:55 He knows your key.
00:30:57 But there's a notice. You can't
00:31:00 The manager expects me to sing
00:31:04 Who were they applauding,
00:31:06 - Now go on out there and do it.
00:31:10 I can't go out there,
00:31:12 What are you worried about?
00:31:14 You're doing a George M. Cohan lyric
00:31:17 - Yes, but it's my voice.
00:31:20 Nobody ever had a better start.
00:31:30 Good luck, kid.
00:32:12 Ten consecutive weeks in New York.
00:32:15 When you leave New York,
00:32:18 - Just look at her.
00:32:22 What's going on here? Take your
00:32:32 Bill, what is this? What's she singing?
00:32:37 She's supposed to sing
00:32:40 - Who told her to switch that number?
00:32:42 You don't know!
00:32:44 Bring down that curtain! When she finishes
00:32:50 Wait a second. See how that song goes.
00:32:52 - The song is gone. Pull out the lights.
00:32:55 Say, who does she think she is? Who
00:32:59 The only reason I put her on was
00:33:02 - It'll be all right in the morning.
00:33:05 - And a very good idea too.
00:33:08 Who, me? Why I've never been
00:33:18 Now look at that. Could you ask
00:33:22 Mr. Dietz, she's wonderful.
00:33:24 Don't do that! Don't do that!
00:33:28 Pull out the lights.
00:33:31 Get your props together, you're on next.
00:33:36 You get that curtain up. You can't ring
00:33:40 A George... oh, I see!
00:33:44 You can tell that by the applause.
00:33:46 Now, Mary, I want you to do an encore.
00:33:49 Oh, no, you don't.
00:33:51 If you're gonna try junk like that,
00:33:55 But you'll not be singing
00:33:57 You take a little tip from me.
00:33:59 If you've got any squawks, unload
00:34:03 Listen, squirt. Any more interference and
00:34:07 You won't be able to get
00:34:10 What's more, as for those songs of yours...
00:34:12 ...they won't be played on a hurdy-gurdy.
00:34:16 - Mary, don't pay any attention to him.
00:34:21 Drunk or sober, the dog act goes on
00:34:29 Bring down the curtain!
00:34:34 Cohan, you're fired! You're canceled.
00:34:38 You and your whole family!
00:34:43 Oh, things were tough.
00:34:47 I had a trunk full of songs and play
00:34:51 I'm glad I had it.
00:34:54 I'm sorry, I can't use this, Cohan.
00:34:57 Youth needs confidence. I'd learned my job
00:35:02 Guys who'd never been past the corner
00:35:07 A kid had to believe
00:36:46 - What do you think?
00:36:49 What do you mean it didn't appeal
00:36:52 - I make the decisions.
00:36:55 - It didn't appeal to me either.
00:36:59 He's got no ear for music. I'm the senior
00:37:04 - The libretto is a grand story, isn't it?
00:37:08 That's my cue. If Harold laughs
00:37:12 Why don't you have Mr. Cohan sing?
00:37:15 ...because I haven't got much of a voice.
00:37:19 - Don't you think so, Mr. Dietz?
00:37:24 Are you or are you not going
00:37:26 If you think I'd put my wife's money
00:37:30 That's it, Mary. That's enough.
00:37:34 - Have you an appointment?
00:37:37 I want to see them
00:37:39 - We don't teach them their business.
00:37:42 You don't know it,
00:37:44 You're making room for the likes of me.
00:37:47 ...you're gonna come to me and
00:37:50 In 20 years of show business, I never
00:37:53 - That's his department.
00:37:55 - Excuse me. I have an appointment.
00:37:58 My name's Sam Harris. I have a
00:38:01 Wildflower.
00:38:04 One, two, three, four, five, six,
00:38:07 Oh, and Indians.
00:38:09 Come on. Don't let a couple like that
00:38:14 - Buffalo is such a beautiful city.
00:38:17 It's a beautiful city,
00:38:19 Don't worry, you won't have to.
00:38:22 I'm gonna have my name posted and
00:38:26 Now, you stick along,
00:38:29 - I never really thought of leaving.
00:38:32 That's what we'll do. They'll all hear
00:38:36 I'm the senior partner.
00:38:38 You don't have to throw me out.
00:38:41 That's the last time I'll
00:38:44 That's my department.
00:38:46 I will take it to Clower and Erlanger.
00:38:50 - Thanks.
00:38:53 Didn't even read the second act. Probably
00:38:58 I think he's a little upset.
00:39:01 5:30. We'd have done eight shows
00:39:11 The juggler just paid
00:39:13 Put him at the head of the
00:39:16 Where shall I put the magician?
00:39:18 Until he's paid he sits at the foot
00:39:21 - Starvation corner.
00:39:24 Keep everything but the noodles and
00:39:28 Noodles and syrup are just
00:39:31 Anybody who owes me two month's
00:39:35 I don't have to wait on them.
00:39:41 - Good evening.
00:39:43 Oh, no, no, no.
00:39:48 - Oh, thank you.
00:39:51 ...you sit over there with the Cohans.
00:39:53 Madame, some day I hope you will give
00:39:58 I just heard today that Hammerstein
00:40:02 Harry Lauder at 2500 bucks a week.
00:40:04 Hammerstein's a great showman. A lot
00:40:09 Take some goulash, Mrs. Cohan.
00:40:11 Did you have that appointment
00:40:14 Oh, yes. He's gonna give work
00:40:17 What happened to that Boston offer?
00:40:21 Four weeks' guarantee, $300 a week,
00:40:24 Well, we didn't take it.
00:40:27 Any act that lays off as long as
00:40:30 - Butter?
00:40:32 We just thought we'd rest
00:40:34 Yes, my brother's writing some new
00:40:41 You're not fooling anybody.
00:40:42 Everybody knows that you, Nellie and
00:40:46 But nobody wants Georgie.
00:40:48 He's made trouble in every theater
00:40:51 You can't lay off just because every
00:40:55 His family hasn't blackballed him.
00:40:57 We may take a lot of hard knocks and
00:41:00 ...but if they want our act, they'll take him
00:41:05 All right, all right. Let the blackballs
00:41:08 Madame Bartholdi,
00:41:12 - Swell.
00:41:14 Dietz & Goff. They're producing
00:41:17 - George, really?
00:41:19 Dietz said to heck with his wife's
00:41:22 Second round of champagne on me, if
00:41:27 Oh, George. Think of those billboards.
00:41:32 Book, music and lyrics all by
00:41:36 - Oh, Georgie, l...
00:41:39 There's enough water on the goulash now.
00:41:42 Dad, I'm gonna be tied in rehearsal
00:41:45 Why don't you and Mom and Josie
00:41:48 Well, I hate to see the act split up,
00:41:51 Oh, sure. Play all that stuff
00:41:54 - The money's good. The jumps are short.
00:41:59 But it won't be the same going back
00:42:03 We'll be like a carriage
00:42:06 But you will admit I was a bumpy wheel.
00:42:10 - No, Georgie, no.
00:42:11 If there's a part for a bicycle rider, I
00:42:16 I always knew you weren't a cook.
00:42:27 - How's everything going, George?
00:42:30 I've been pounding the pavement
00:42:33 - Mac, would you put a head on that?
00:42:35 The villain turns and says:
00:42:37 "I'll tell who you are unless
00:42:40 Think fast. It's due in 10 minutes.
00:42:44 I know, I know. The hero helps him.
00:42:47 - And the girl nurses him back to health.
00:42:53 - Do you know what happens?
00:42:56 I will be on the street watching
00:42:59 Before I put $ 10,000 into a show...
00:43:01 ...it must have songs, dances,
00:43:06 Women, women. Little rose petals.
00:43:10 The big scene is where the hero saves
00:43:13 It won't be terribly expensive.
00:43:16 You don't need much of a fire.
00:43:20 - I've been looking all over town for you.
00:43:23 We gotta go to Dietz & Goff
00:43:25 - Papers?
00:43:26 - What papers?
00:43:29 - You haven't discussed our musical?
00:43:32 - Remember what we promised.
00:43:35 Good. Dietz said it was the best musical
00:43:39 When I told him about those 20 ponies
00:43:42 - Ponies and showgirls?
00:43:44 ...would you tell me what
00:43:46 - You got the check?
00:43:48 - That's mine.
00:43:51 - Glad to have met you.
00:43:54 - Come on. We can't keep Dietz waiting.
00:43:56 You have girls up your sleeve, you have
00:44:01 - What's it about?
00:44:04 We haven't got time.
00:44:06 - The famous jockey.
00:44:08 Jockey sounds swell.
00:44:14 Well, good luck, boys.
00:44:19 You forgot your manuscript. Say, before
00:44:23 ...I made some change in
00:44:26 - "Yankee Doodle"?
00:44:28 You'll like this.
00:44:31 - May I listen a little?
00:44:33 - Well, I don't know.
00:44:36 - I promise.
00:44:38 - There's a piano in the private room.
00:44:44 - Yankee Doodle Candy.
00:44:47 Yankee Doodle Candy.
00:45:21 I have heard enough.
00:45:23 I will never forgive you for trying
00:45:26 ...when you had that musical.
00:45:29 I can't understand it. Why is Dietz's wife's
00:45:35 Why?
00:45:37 Must you give it to Dietz & Goff?
00:45:41 Well, I don't know. I like Dietz,
00:45:44 I'm crazy about Goff but
00:45:46 Gentlemen, you are in perfect agreement.
00:45:50 - I will give you a check to bind the deal.
00:45:54 - Thank you. What's your partner's name?
00:46:01 What's my partner's name?
00:46:04 Well, don't toy with the kid at a time
00:46:09 George M. Cohan. C-o-H-A-N.
00:46:12 - And what is my junior partner's name?
00:46:17 - Hello. What should I write?
00:46:20 Cohan and Harris.
00:51:12 That's it, ladies and gentlemen,
00:51:15 Yankee Doodle let them down.
00:51:17 So they'll either pasture him in clover or
00:52:15 Women, women. Little rose petals.
00:52:17 It's wonderful. You got them
00:52:19 - My congratulations.
00:52:21 - As long as those critics don't eat my leg.
00:52:24 You have a smash hit. It's in the air.
00:53:26 All right. On the boat.
00:53:28 Remember, Jones, watch for the
00:53:32 ...that I've obtained papers that'll prove
00:53:37 It'll mean complete vindication. So stick
00:53:42 Thanks, pal. I'll be watching.
00:53:54 Goodbye, Johnny. And don't worry,
00:53:57 - Thanks, kid. That'll help a lot. Bye-bye.
00:57:05 That was your department!
00:57:09 Is it the robin that heralds the first
00:57:12 How can you think of robins in the
00:57:16 Hey, Jerry. Did you see the way
00:57:19 - Come here. Look at that. Funny, isn't it?
00:57:24 ...family of George M. Cohan,
00:57:27 - Hey, the kid's doing all right.
00:57:32 Well, that's true. He is
00:57:36 I know, but it ain't right.
00:57:39 - We'll be billed as The Three Cohans.
00:57:43 Don't think I'm jealous of Georgie's
00:57:47 Of course you're not jealous.
00:57:50 There'll be no stopping George. All he
00:57:55 He mustn't know I'm a better actor.
00:57:58 Still, it does look a little funny,
00:58:01 ...and you folks gathering crumbs
00:58:04 - Is either of you fellows Jerry Cohan?
00:58:17 It's from George.
00:58:19 "Lmpossible to find three clever actors
00:58:23 ...anywhere in New York.
00:58:25 - Return immediately for rehearsals."
00:58:29 The four of us back together
00:59:16 Even in the kitchen
00:59:19 In Buffalo they say I have a nice little voice.
00:59:22 A lot they know in Buffalo.
00:59:27 - Well, how do you like your part so far?
00:59:30 It's small.
00:59:33 You got something on the leading lady,
00:59:36 Here it is. It's finished.
00:59:37 - Come on.
00:59:39 I'm gonna give it to you now.
00:01:16 Gee, I never cared much
00:01:18 It's kind of common.
00:01:22 I didn't write it for the millions of Marys.
00:01:24 I wrote it for one particular,
00:01:27 It's a wonderful feeling
00:01:30 - Not bad music either, huh?
00:01:33 How will everybody know I'm the Mary?
00:01:35 I want to make sure that everybody
00:01:39 They'll know, all right.
00:01:40 When they look at you singing that song
00:01:44 ...they'll know.
00:01:45 - Oh, George.
00:01:48 - George.
00:01:51 Excuse me for butting in,
00:01:54 Strange that I should find you here.
00:01:56 George has just written me a new song
00:02:00 Of course.
00:02:02 That is not a little voice.
00:02:05 We've got to go. We've got to see
00:02:08 - What does she want to see us about?
00:02:11 You need a leading lady,
00:02:13 - George!
00:02:16 If she can do two years in the turkey
00:02:19 - Will she take it?
00:02:20 - At least you can get her autograph.
00:02:23 - Bring her back to supper after the show.
00:02:38 A flower, mister?
00:02:40 - Here you are.
00:02:42 Thank you.
00:02:44 One thing in our favor
00:02:46 - He's got influence with Miss Templeton.
00:02:50 You don't tackle a star like Miss Templeton,
00:02:53 Well, if it's tact that does it, it's done.
00:02:58 If you get me in to see Miss Templeton
00:03:01 Look, Dietz.
00:03:04 - Where's Miss Templeton's dressing room?
00:03:07 Tell you what I'm gonna do, I'm gonna see
00:03:11 My respects to Mrs. Dietz.
00:03:13 Now that was a very sweet gesture.
00:03:16 You've got to remember,
00:03:19 ...lining up a vehicle for you.
00:03:23 - He's just written a big hit.
00:03:25 He may be a flash in the pan,
00:03:27 And I heard about Little Johnny Jones.
00:03:29 And I read the critics.
00:03:34 Well, it was a wow.
00:03:35 I haven't laughed so much in years.
00:03:39 Maybe so, but not for me, Mr. Erlanger.
00:03:42 What I want is a quiet,
00:03:44 I want to perform in a theater,
00:03:47 Come in.
00:03:49 - Hello, Harris. How are you, Cohan?
00:03:52 - Everything's all right. She'll see you.
00:03:55 - Fay, may I present Mr. Harris?
00:03:59 And Fay, this is Mr. Cohan.
00:04:02 How do you do?
00:04:04 We were just talking about you.
00:04:07 Been sick or in Europe?
00:04:12 No. I've been right here
00:04:16 Oh, buried.
00:04:18 Don't misunderstand me,
00:04:20 Well, I've never been
00:04:23 ...but right now, standing
00:04:26 Well, I'd prefer to have
00:04:29 - Why, Mr. Cohan, how sweet of you.
00:04:33 Excuse me for breaking in on you,
00:04:36 ...but I would like to present
00:04:38 Mr. Cohan, I thought...
00:04:40 - Drunk.
00:04:42 May I have the honor of supping with you
00:04:46 ...and drinking champagne out of your...
00:04:49 Mr. Dietz, haven't you forgotten that
00:04:53 Yes, but on special occasions I take over.
00:04:56 - May I put these in water for you?
00:04:59 I never saw Dietz drunk before.
00:05:02 - Well, shall we get down to business?
00:05:05 George, how would you like to do a play
00:05:09 What do you think I've been doing?
00:05:11 You see what I mean, Fay?
00:05:14 Positively a riot.
00:05:16 Yes, well.
00:05:19 That is, I mean, can you write
00:05:22 Miss Templeton, I can write a play
00:05:25 - Laugh. Well, look...
00:05:29 I'm afraid I would never please the people
00:05:33 You're being modest, Miss Templeton.
00:05:35 If you'd let yourself go, you'd be
00:05:38 You might even have fun yourself.
00:05:40 Abe, isn't it about time
00:05:42 If you haven't time now,
00:05:46 I'm sorry, after the show
00:05:48 It's only 45 minutes from here.
00:05:52 ...from all the noisy,
00:05:55 - Now, Miss Templeton, you can't...
00:05:58 That tact of yours, that wonderful tact.
00:06:05 What are you thinking about?
00:06:20 - Well, have you thought it over, Fay?
00:06:24 Now, you're making a great mistake.
00:06:27 You know why? Because he's the whole
00:06:32 His writing, his songs,
00:06:35 They all touch something
00:06:38 Don't ask me why it is, but it happens
00:06:41 - It's pure magic.
00:06:44 I know his formula. A fresh young sprout
00:06:48 Yes, that's just it, Fay.
00:06:50 George M. Cohan has
00:06:52 ...and every American loves it because
00:06:57 He's found the mainspring
00:06:59 Ambition, pride, patriotism.
00:07:01 That's why they call him
00:07:04 Now, if you'll take a tip from me
00:07:07 You'll hitch your wagon
00:07:10 Abe, I've got to change for the second act.
00:07:14 Fay, don't make up your mind too quickly.
00:07:17 Who's locked my door?
00:07:20 - Who is it?
00:07:23 He'll be through in a minute.
00:07:25 Excuse me, Miss Templeton,
00:07:28 - May I?
00:07:30 What does this mean?
00:07:33 - It's ready and waiting and dedicated to you.
00:07:36 When you made that speech you said
00:07:39 That struck me as a perfect title
00:07:43 During the first act
00:07:45 - Strange surroundings, so it took longer.
00:07:49 - It'll only take a minute, won't it?
00:07:53 Well, you certainly are persistent.
00:07:57 - Mind if I change?
00:07:59 Thank you very, very much.
00:08:35 That's good. It's rather different.
00:08:38 You like it, Miss Templeton, do you?
00:08:41 That's only a chorus number.
00:08:43 He's got one number called "Mary"
00:08:46 - She doesn't sing that.
00:08:48 Shut up. Wait till you hear this,
00:08:51 "Mary"?
00:08:54 This looks very interesting.
00:08:56 - You wouldn't like it.
00:08:59 - Well, it isn't, and besides...
00:09:01 - Don't spoil everything.
00:09:04 - You gotta let her have it.
00:09:07 - She can't sing it!
00:09:08 With Abe's money and your brains
00:10:03 Come in.
00:10:06 A little early for Christmas, isn't it?
00:10:08 Well, I was just passing the flowers
00:10:12 George, I'm sure our song will live forever.
00:10:14 I've been playing it since you left
00:10:18 What happened with Fay Templeton?
00:10:20 Oh, she's dying to play the part,
00:10:23 - Ham or bacon?
00:10:25 Good, ham makes me self-conscious.
00:10:26 You're hesitating about having
00:10:29 Big stars are always temperamental
00:10:32 Asking impossible terms and conditions.
00:10:35 - I think you ought to give in to her.
00:10:38 - No matter what she asks?
00:10:42 Why are you so concerned
00:10:44 I don't care for her,
00:10:46 Think what it means for you
00:10:51 Always worried about me, aren't you?
00:10:55 Not much lately. Haven't had time.
00:10:59 ...I knew here was a little boy
00:11:02 So I gave myself the job.
00:11:05 There are a lot of singers, you know,
00:11:10 Darling, how would you like
00:11:15 Leading lady, run of the play. Maybe a few
00:11:19 ...but I can guarantee you some laughs.
00:11:21 - How does it sound?
00:11:26 Could I see some of the script?
00:11:35 Not bad for a first reading.
00:11:40 The coffee's boiling over.
00:11:42 - Darling, something I forgot to tell you.
00:11:46 I gave your song to Fay Templeton tonight.
00:11:50 Darling, did you hear me?
00:11:53 - I gave your song to Fay Templeton tonight.
00:11:58 I knew you did, dear, when you
00:13:40 It's a wonderful song, George.
00:13:44 Thanks, Sam, but I still think
00:13:48 Oh, that's all right.
00:17:09 Look at Cohan.
00:17:12 I've never seen the guy and his name
00:17:15 "Cohan and Harris present
00:17:18 Starring the author and composer
00:17:22 I wonder what the M is for?
00:17:24 - Hello, Mr. Foy.
00:17:26 - Enjoyed your show last night.
00:17:28 - You always appear in the kind of stuff I like.
00:17:32 "George M. Cohan and his royal family.
00:17:34 Books and lyrics, music and directed by
00:17:40 That must be Cohan's alias.
00:17:42 Certainly gave himself good billing,
00:17:44 You don't have to memorize it,
00:17:47 I'd like to forget it. Hey, fella,
00:17:51 - You think it's a turkey? I hear it's good.
00:17:56 Who is this Cohan? Where is he from?
00:17:57 - Is he an upstart?
00:18:00 Played everything: Bigtime vaudeville,
00:18:03 Must have looked like an encore.
00:18:07 - Who?
00:18:11 - Oh, pardon me.
00:18:14 - Would you mind spraying it again?
00:18:17 The star with the big show down the street
00:18:20 Why, I thought they looked
00:18:23 I hear now that Cohan's in town,
00:18:26 Foy won't retire till he's 90.
00:18:27 Will it take him that long
00:18:30 I hear when he tries to sing
00:18:33 Tries to sing? Why, he's a genius.
00:18:37 That's one way to keep them in the theater.
00:18:40 He produces his own plays,
00:18:43 ...plays the leads, and is a great dancer.
00:18:48 When you write your own plays you don't
00:18:52 He's given the world Yankee Doodle Dandy.
00:18:56 He gave them seven kids.
00:18:58 - Does he dance?
00:18:59 When does he get time to practice?
00:19:02 Say, listen, young fella,
00:19:05 I know it. I'm George M. Cohan.
00:19:08 Oh, so you're Cohan?
00:19:10 Well, if I said anything accidental
00:19:14 I don't blame you. I'd feel the same way
00:19:18 - What do you like to drink?
00:19:20 I can supply it.
00:19:21 The attraction inside is bigger than I am.
00:21:14 We took the red from the flame of dawn.
00:21:18 The dawn of a new nation.
00:21:19 And the white was the white
00:21:24 The blue was the blue of the free, open sky.
00:21:28 And the stars were
00:21:32 ...who built their home
00:21:37 Right!
00:21:40 Right again!
00:21:46 That's the spirit!
00:22:28 And that government of the people...
00:22:33 ... by the people,
00:22:40 ... from the earth.
00:25:38 May I have your autograph, Mr. Cohan?
00:25:40 To what do you attribute
00:25:44 Oh, I'm an ordinary guy who knows
00:25:53 Front row center, the greatest
00:25:56 To the people. God bless them.
00:26:04 Here, chick, chick, chick, chick!
00:26:08 Oh, it's such fun, Mother,
00:26:11 Everything's running so smoothly.
00:26:13 It's always been a dream of ours, Mary.
00:26:15 We kept hoping for 20 years
00:26:19 Imagine knowing how to feed chickens,
00:26:22 And you're a farmer only three weeks.
00:26:24 Jerry and I've seen
00:26:27 ...and we always wanted some of our own.
00:26:29 You know, watch them hatch
00:26:32 If we only could. They're so pretty.
00:26:37 - Georgie?
00:26:39 - What'd you get Dad for his birthday?
00:26:42 - Is it bright? Will he like it?
00:26:47 - That'll do it. Look what I got him, Georgie.
00:26:52 - That must have set you back.
00:26:55 His old one's so loud,
00:27:00 My future husband helped me pick it out.
00:27:06 Your future what?
00:27:08 Husband. We're getting married
00:27:30 So Little Josie's gonna get married, huh?
00:27:33 It doesn't seem that long ago...
00:27:37 - What happens to The Four Cohans?
00:27:43 You know, one from four leaves three.
00:27:46 Three Cohans.
00:27:48 That's only arithmetic.
00:27:50 One Cohan from Four Cohans
00:27:54 Mom and Pop know?
00:27:58 Mom's been working on
00:28:08 What are you thinking about, Georgie?
00:28:16 I'm going to write you the most
00:28:19 It'll pack the pews.
00:28:24 Dad, tell Josie just because she's getting
00:28:29 We're just as much an institution
00:28:32 No one knows that any better than I do...
00:28:34 ...but we want to settle down
00:28:37 What's the matter, can't he raise a family
00:28:40 Oh, George.
00:28:41 George, I'm afraid your mother and I are
00:28:51 You hear that?
00:28:54 - Well, it's been a 40-year run, remember.
00:28:58 All we'd like to do now is spend
00:29:01 You can't do that. You can't put an actor
00:29:05 We've gained nearly 10 pounds apiece.
00:29:07 You can work it off,
00:29:10 - They're grand parts in it for both of you.
00:29:14 We've had good times together.
00:29:16 Well, new shows need new faces
00:29:20 From now on, it's just you alone, son.
00:29:26 - Well, what's this?
00:29:28 - Happy birthday!
00:29:32 - Here we are.
00:29:35 - Make your wish.
00:29:36 Good one, Dad.
00:29:39 - Which should I open first?
00:29:42 I'll open this one, you open that one.
00:29:44 - This will match your new suit.
00:29:48 - It looks fine.
00:29:49 It's made from that old backdrop you
00:29:53 - Oh, darling, that's a lovely watch.
00:29:57 - This is better than being on next to closing.
00:30:02 Dad, press the little button on the side
00:30:08 It plays "one on one"
00:30:11 - Here's more ties that you won't like, Jerry.
00:30:17 - Here's a letter from George.
00:30:20 You haven't written me in 20 years.
00:30:23 George, this isn't your party.
00:30:27 - Sit down.
00:30:29 Probably only a bill for his jacket anyway.
00:30:35 "Dear Dad, this is your 62nd birthday,
00:30:39 Maybe I've never told you before,
00:30:43 ...or one to be prouder of.
00:30:45 You and Mother have always given me
00:30:50 ...than I ever deserved.
00:30:52 And all the luck I've had is due
00:30:57 Nothing I can do could
00:31:03 ...but here's a little present
00:31:07 From this day on,
00:31:11 ...in every theater and
00:31:16 Half and equal.
00:31:19 The Cohan Theater,
00:31:23 ...and the Grand opera House in Chicago.
00:31:27 And all my plays and songs,
00:31:31 ...or you and I, live."
00:31:37 These are not my reading glasses.
00:31:40 Why didn't somebody give me
00:31:44 "Wish you all my love.
00:31:47 Your son and partner,
00:31:53 Well, George, on behalf
00:31:59 There she goes, stealing the scene again.
00:32:07 One success followed another.
00:32:10 Critics said musicals and cheap
00:32:13 I'd wave a flag, they said.
00:32:16 So I wrote a legitimate drama.
00:32:20 No music, no gags, no flag-waving.
00:32:23 I called it Popularity.
00:32:28 I couldn't attend the opening because I was
00:32:36 - Open it up.
00:32:38 Cohan, you're surely not going
00:32:41 - You're good for another five curtain calls.
00:32:44 - Mr. Cohan, are you sure you're feeling well?
00:32:47 - Any news on Popularity?
00:32:51 You'd think Sam would let me know.
00:32:53 Well, it's a good sign. They probably
00:32:57 - What time is it?
00:32:59 - That clock right?
00:33:01 Wonder what's keeping them.
00:33:03 Maybe something's wrong.
00:33:05 Got the reports on the minstrel show.
00:33:07 - What'd we lose this week?
00:33:10 - What's the total loss so far?
00:33:13 That include the cost of the red ink?
00:33:16 A lot of dough sunk into that too.
00:33:20 - What did the papers say about the show?
00:33:25 Rave notices. That's bad.
00:33:27 The better notices you get,
00:33:29 All except the last act.
00:33:31 - Alexson suggests a new finish.
00:33:35 How about Saturday night?
00:33:37 - Close it?
00:33:39 Saturday night.
00:33:41 - Give the company two weeks' salary.
00:33:43 - Well, good evening.
00:33:46 - Hello, dear.
00:33:49 Well, Dad, I was worried about you.
00:33:51 Sit down, sweets, right there.
00:33:54 That theater's awfully cold, George.
00:33:56 - Better have more heat put in.
00:33:58 Remember that skating act from Camden?
00:34:00 They were there.
00:34:02 Fagan, Feeny and Riley.
00:34:04 Well, come on. Tell me.
00:34:06 The audience loved it.
00:34:09 The sets were beautiful, George.
00:34:17 - Why so quiet, Sam?
00:34:20 The critics walked out
00:34:28 Come on, Dad. Come on.
00:34:31 Well, there's no use
00:34:34 Pretty bad, George.
00:34:36 Could've been a lot better.
00:34:38 All right, you write a bad play.
00:34:42 Everybody's entitled to one failure.
00:34:44 Let's go to Delmonico's, have the party.
00:34:47 You take the girls on over there,
00:34:51 I got some things
00:35:00 Those critics have been after me for years.
00:35:04 But I'll beat them to it. I'll take an ad
00:35:08 ...telling the public we got the greatest show
00:35:13 It'll be my word against theirs.
00:35:15 - Georgie, you can't do that.
00:35:17 You got too big a reputation.
00:35:21 We stuck our necks out,
00:35:25 Georgie.
00:35:27 You can't do this.
00:35:29 - Sit down and take this.
00:35:32 - To the theatergoing public.
00:35:34 To the theatergoing public.
00:35:36 I wrote a play called Popularity.
00:35:39 Mr. Harris and I produced that play.
00:35:42 In the opinion of people we respect,
00:35:46 In this, we heartily concur.
00:35:51 I do humbly apologize and ask forgiveness...
00:35:53 ...for having presented anything
00:35:56 There will be five more performances.
00:35:58 Please miss them.
00:36:00 Signed...
00:36:03 Happy?
00:36:06 It's a wonderful second-act curtain.
00:36:08 Send copies of this
00:36:10 Extra! Lusitania torpedoed
00:36:32 This is it, George.
00:36:34 And we were worried about
00:36:36 Now we've really got
00:36:49 Seems it always happens.
00:36:51 Whenever we get too high-hat,
00:36:54 ... some thug nation decides we're
00:36:58 And before long we're looking up anxiously
00:37:13 Left foot.
00:37:15 Right foot.
00:37:17 On your toes.
00:37:19 I used to be a model.
00:37:21 You'll look awful pretty peeling potatoes.
00:37:23 - On your way, wise guy.
00:37:26 Left foot.
00:37:28 Take this paper and report
00:37:32 Next. Name, please.
00:37:34 Oh. George M. Cohan.
00:37:37 Occupation:
00:37:41 Address:
00:37:43 - How do you know so much about me?
00:37:47 I was a clerk at the Friars Club.
00:37:50 - Age: 39.
00:37:54 Thirty-nine? I'm sorry, Mr. Cohan.
00:37:58 What's 8 or 9 years? The Germans
00:38:01 Oh, I know how you feel, Mr. Cohan.
00:38:05 It's no picnic. All those hardships,
00:38:08 ...trenches,
00:38:10 - The ma'am-selles.
00:38:12 No, you'll never be able to stand it.
00:38:15 Hardships and physical strain?
00:38:18 This war's a coffee klatch compared
00:38:21 I'd like to see one of you do what I do in a
00:38:25 I'll give you an idea of what I mean.
00:38:42 Thank you very much
00:38:45 But I'm afraid we have more need
00:38:47 But that'll make the war last a year longer.
00:38:51 - Goodbye, Mr. Cohan.
00:41:04 Pick it up, soldier.
00:41:07 - Where are the lights?
00:41:10 Hit your lights and play them on the stage
00:41:14 Boys, hit your lights and keep them on
00:41:41 Everybody sing!
00:42:50 We'd won the world war.
00:42:54 But I spiked my shows with prewar stuff.
00:42:56 The sentiment and humor an older
00:44:18 Still, it was lonely on the main stem.
00:44:21 Mother and Josie were gone.
00:44:23 Dad was by himself on the farm
00:44:26 Every night I went to the theater,
00:44:29 Well, finally, it came.
00:44:40 You'd better give him two more cc's.
00:44:43 May as well try to make him
00:44:45 Yes, doctor.
00:44:48 If you have to get
00:44:51 ...l'll be here all night.
00:44:56 - Cigarette, doctor?
00:45:01 I remember I was a kid in medical college in
00:45:06 They were a great act.
00:45:08 Yes, they were.
00:45:13 I always thought George M.'s sister
00:45:17 I can't help thinking
00:45:22 His sister and his mother gone
00:45:25 In some ways, I think he was
00:45:28 Well, I'd settle for his age.
00:45:31 There never was anything dull
00:45:34 And he's lived to see his son
00:45:39 I'd settle for that too.
00:45:46 - Hello, doc.
00:45:48 - How is he?
00:45:54 I think you'd better go in alone.
00:46:01 We can't... We can't do that.
00:46:05 - Where's George?
00:46:08 Oh, that's good.
00:46:12 The booking office has
00:46:15 ...and they want us to play Des Moines...
00:46:18 No, don't worry about that.
00:46:21 We're gonna pick it up on the way back.
00:46:25 - How'd it go tonight?
00:46:29 It's not every kid that gets
00:46:33 That's right.
00:46:34 Were you...? Were you nervous?
00:46:39 Oh, sure. Every one.
00:46:45 Don't you upstage your mother,
00:46:49 Oh, don't worry, Dad.
00:46:51 I'll play the show
00:46:54 No, no. We'll be billed as The Four Cohans.
00:46:59 Don't worry, Dad. They never will.
00:47:04 - How many curtain calls did you take?
00:47:08 - That's pretty good for a drama.
00:47:13 - Did you make a speech?
00:47:18 I said, "My mother thanks you.
00:47:20 My father thanks you.
00:47:23 My sister thanks you.
00:47:26 And I thank you."
00:48:34 Well...
00:48:38 ...it was a good combination, Sam.
00:48:40 Worked well for a long time.
00:48:42 Now that it's all over, who was the senior
00:48:46 You mean who was Dietz
00:48:48 I'll bet it was the first firm in the history of
00:48:52 - You know how I feel, don't you, Sam?
00:48:57 When Dad died, with him went
00:49:00 All the backslapping and the applause,
00:49:06 Didn't mean anything anymore
00:49:10 So Mary and I are going away
00:49:12 ...visit all those places
00:49:15 Old theaters where nobody
00:49:18 You'll have to go to Timbuktu.
00:49:20 Got it booked.
00:49:22 George, you've always been
00:49:25 I never was much of a hand at saying things.
00:49:29 But we've done more than
00:49:32 And lose a little.
00:49:35 Sometimes friends drift apart.
00:49:39 No matter how legal dissolution
00:49:42 ...50°% of me will
00:49:44 I'll remember that when the rent is due.
00:49:46 You'll be more successful than ever.
00:49:48 But if ever the rent does come due,
00:49:52 And, by the same token, if I get stuck
00:49:58 You'd better get out of here.
00:50:02 That ship will sail without you.
00:50:11 Seasick pills.
00:50:13 I won't go to the boat with you.
00:50:20 We thought you guys weren't
00:50:23 Can we have a picture of you
00:50:25 Well, that's impossible.
00:50:29 The only contract we've ever had:
00:50:31 Hold that pose, will you?
00:50:40 Life was less full, but it was
00:50:43 I still had Mary.
00:50:47 We set out to rubberneck at the world.
00:50:55 Nelson Monument. It's a good thing
00:50:58 With the history their flag has,
00:51:04 Oh, George.
00:51:06 Learned it on the farm.
00:51:19 It takes two men to impersonate
00:51:21 And you always have trouble
00:51:31 Folks always come back to where their
00:51:34 The farm we Cohans had dreamed of
00:51:50 Hey, mister. Our radiator needs some H2o.
00:51:54 Sure, go ahead.
00:51:56 Come on, Jack.
00:51:58 - Let's make this hop-up solid.
00:52:03 - Radiator busted?
00:52:07 What are you gonna do
00:52:09 Oh, it'll run a lot smoother on the rims.
00:52:11 "Stix nix hix pix."
00:52:14 - Greek. I'll bet that's Greek talk.
00:52:18 - "Stix nix hix pix."
00:52:20 Here, I'll translate it for you.
00:52:21 Stix: Small towns. Nix: Refuse.
00:52:26 Small towns refuse rube pictures.
00:52:29 Stix nix hix pix.
00:52:35 - I thought that was new jive talk.
00:52:37 - Jive talk.
00:52:39 - Are you an actor, sir?
00:52:41 - What were your pictures?
00:52:43 I was on Broadway,
00:52:45 - Oh. What's your name, sir?
00:52:48 - Coen?
00:52:51 - I guess you must've been before our time.
00:52:54 - Were you ever in some big shows?
00:52:56 - Like what?
00:53:00 ... The Tavern, Ah, Wilderness!
00:53:03 Raised in a vacuum bottle.
00:53:04 I guess your parents must have seen me.
00:53:07 Maybe they have.
00:53:10 Ever hear of a song called
00:53:13 - I don't think so.
00:53:16 - Who sang it?
00:53:19 A follow-up to
00:53:21 Or "Jeepers Creepers."
00:53:31 Come on, kids. Time's a-wasting.
00:53:33 We gotta scram now.
00:53:35 Thank you very much, Mr...
00:53:36 - What was your name again, sir?
00:53:40 Goodbye, Georgie.
00:53:44 - Nice old guy. Let's go!
00:53:51 Bye!
00:53:57 They did that.
00:54:00 I'm not angry,
00:54:02 Kid asked me my name, I said, "Cohan."
00:54:05 Never even heard of me.
00:54:08 But you've been away from
00:54:11 Nine or ten generations
00:54:14 Naturally they don't remember you.
00:54:17 Why not? Many generations remembered my
00:54:20 That's because they were real troupers.
00:54:24 Your father could do a good buck
00:54:26 - What makes you think I can't?
00:54:29 Your father never sat around an orchard,
00:54:33 Nothing wrong with my arteries.
00:54:34 No, not right now because
00:54:38 You're picking on me for a reason, Mary.
00:54:40 You're trying to get a rise out of me.
00:54:44 All right. Here it is.
00:54:47 I got a long-distance call
00:54:49 What about?
00:54:51 He's producing a new show
00:54:54 They're good writers.
00:54:57 Sam thinks you could,
00:55:00 Play the lead?
00:55:01 What is the matter with that man?
00:55:05 - What's he trying to do? Spoil all our fun?
00:55:09 When we were in Europe,
00:55:11 ...not knowing a word
00:55:14 Going back, congratulating the actors.
00:55:18 Just to smell the greasepaint again.
00:55:20 You think I'm stage-struck. I only go
00:55:24 Fun? I'm having a wonderful time.
00:55:29 Sam says it's a great part. No other actor
00:55:33 That's just more of that Harris con.
00:55:35 He needs me as much as
00:55:38 He really does need you, George.
00:55:40 If positions were reversed,
00:55:45 Besides, he never said so,
00:55:49 - Can you think of any more reasons?
00:55:56 Well, that settled it.
00:55:58 I've never refused you anything, have I?
00:56:01 - Come on. Let's get packing.
00:56:06 - What?
00:56:10 Now you can start getting mad all over again
00:56:20 What are you laughing about?
00:56:23 Just full of news, aren't you?
00:56:26 I want you to know
00:56:28 I was listening in on the phone downstairs
00:56:32 Why, you devil!
00:56:35 And what's more, I phoned Sam
00:56:38 Oh, I ought to pop you.
01:00:06 Good work, kids.
01:00:12 And then came your wire.
01:00:16 Here I am going on like Tennyson's Brook,
01:00:19 I'm sorry.
01:00:21 Why, I wanted to hear
01:00:24 It has a direct bearing
01:00:27 Do you know what this is?
01:00:31 Congressional Medal of Honor.
01:00:32 Let's see what the inscription says.
01:00:35 "To George M. Cohan.
01:00:37 For his contribution to the American spirit.
01:00:41 'Over There' and 'Grand old Flag.'
01:00:44 Presented by act of Congress."
01:00:48 I congratulate you, Mr. Cohan.
01:00:50 I understand you're the first person
01:00:55 You should be very proud.
01:00:57 I am proud.
01:00:59 In fact, I'm flabbergasted.
01:01:04 - You're sure there isn't some mistake?
01:01:08 But this medal is for people who've given
01:01:12 I'm just a song-and-dance man.
01:01:15 A man may give his life to his country
01:01:20 And quite often, he isn't the best judge
01:01:24 Your songs were a symbol
01:01:28 "Over There" was just as powerful
01:01:32 ...as any battleship we had
01:01:35 Today we're all soldiers.
01:01:39 We need more songs to express America.
01:01:42 I know you and your comrades
01:01:46 Mr. President,
01:01:50 It's quite a thing.
01:01:52 Well, it's the best material we could find,
01:01:58 Goodbye, sir.
01:02:01 And I want you to know that
01:02:04 My mother thanks you. My father
01:02:08 And I assure you, I thank you.
01:02:10 And I wouldn't worry about this country
01:02:15 Where else in the world could a plain guy
01:02:19 Well, that's about as good a definition
01:02:24 - Goodbye, Mr. Cohan, and good luck.
01:03:58 What's the matter, old timer,
01:04:02 Seems to me I do.
01:04:04 Well, I don't hear anything.