Commentary
The month of July’s only national holiday is American Independence Day. This should be one of the most important celebrations in our country, but many people are more interested in the chance to party than understanding why we celebrate this day. Even consistently calling it the Fourth of July instead of Independence Day lessens the holiday’s true significance. It’s a beautiful reminder of what Independence Day really means to see classic films which depict its celebration, not just on the fourth but throughout the month of July.
Today’s moment of movie wisdom is from “Babes on Broadway” from 1941. It takes place 57 minutes into the 118-minute film. In this scene, the main characters, ambitious would-be Broadway performers, pair a musical block party with an Independence Day celebration, since it’s on the Fourth of July. The guests of honor are British children seeking refuge from World War II. As Judy Garland sings “Chin Up! Cheerio! Carry On!” the faces of the teary-eyed children are overshadowed with images of London, in its pre-war beauty. This is a very touching scene, which shows the tragic impact the war was having on England before Pearl Harbor….