Close Harmony (1929): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 1929, Close Harmony is a romance and music film directed by A. Edward Sutherland, running about 70 minutes. “YOU WILL ADORE THE FLAMING CARROLL GIRL AND HER JAZZ-MAD HERO "BUDDY"” — that tagline sets the tone.

What it’s about. Marjorie, a song-and-dance girl in the stage show of a palatial movie theater, becomes interested in Al West, a warehouse clerk who has put together an unusual jazz band, and uses her influence to get him a place on one of the programs. Max Mindel, the house manager, has a yen for Marjorie and, discovering that she is in love with Al, gives the band notice and hires harmony singers Barney & Bey as a replacement. Marjorie makes up to both men and soon breaks up the team. Al learns of her scheme, however, and makes her confess to the singers. Barney and Bey make up, and Max gives Al and his band one more chance. Al is a sensation, and Max offers him a contract for $1,000 a week.

Who’s in it. Close Harmony stars Charles Rogers as Al West, Nancy Carroll as Marjorie Merwin, Harry Green as Max Mindel and Jack Oakie as Ben Barney, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 6.5/10, Close Harmony has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Close Harmony page.

If you liked it. Fans of Close Harmony tend to enjoy Forrest Gump, Your Name., Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and Cinema Paradiso.