I'll Reach For A Star (aka The Hit Parade)

Arrogant radio singer Monica Barrett dumps talent agent Pete Garland in favor of conniving society lawyer Teddy Leeds. Pete is determined to win his client back by making a radio star out of singer Ruth Allison, who has spent time behind bars. The scheme works, and the charming newcomer instantly wins over the public. She is courted by a local radio station to replace Monica. But the diva has no intention of giving up her throne without a fight and threatens to expose her rival's prison record to the press.

Popular radio singer Frances Langford's film debut in Every Night at Eight (1935) saw her introduce the song "I'm In the Mood for Love," which became her trademark. Touring with Bob Hope, she entertained our troops during World War II and her success on the radio, in the movies and on TV continued into the mid-1950s. Originally released as The Hit Parade, I'll Reach For A Star was the most expensive Republic Pictures production until that time. The amazing talent roster includes Carl Hoff and the Hit Parade Orchestra, Duke Ellington and his band with vocalist Ivie Anderson, and bandleader Eddy Duchin.