Rin Tin Tin, ‘Jazz Singer’ at the Stanford Theatre

San Francisco Chronicle ^ | Tuesday, July 25, 2017 | Carlos Valladares

[nickcarraway]

SNIP

The former is a silent action picture starring Rin Tin Tin, the canine sensation of the Coolidge nation. Amazingly, the German shepherd was Warner Bros.’ biggest box office draw. Only seven of Rinty’s 29 films survive; this one will be accompanied by Dennis James at the Mighty Wurlitzer.

The latter, the first film with synchronized talking and singing parts, heralded the end of the silent era. It also has Al Jolson singing “Mammy” in blackface. There’s a whole complex history behind Jolson’s routine, so rather than tsk-tsk “those times,” let’s just say that Jolson’s vaudeville schtick has its freakishly mannerist charms.

SNIP

[tumblindice]

This may be a DOA thread Nick.

[ifinnegan]

I like the post. “Jolson’s vaudeville schtick has its freakishly mannerist charms” is a great description.