The Unknown Jimmy Durante: The Great Schnozzola

Jimmy Durante was an unlikely star, "blessed" with an enormous nose and a raspy voice, he scored repeated hits on recordings, in vaudeville, nightclubs, radio, films, and most memorably, television during the '50s. Durante's act consisted of his singing bits of sentimental or whimsical songs, pratfalls, comic double-takes, signature lines such as "I got a million of 'em!" and "Everybody wants to get into da act!", plus lots of clowning with celebrity guests, chorus girls, and audience members. While modern audiences might consider Durante's shtick corny, it ably sustained the beloved performer throughout a lengthy career that ended only when a stroke sidelined him in the last decade of his life. Resurrecting numerous choice bits from his nearly forgotten television show, combined with commentary from busy critic Leonard Maltin, as well as Durante's wife and daughter, The Unknown Jimmy Durante encourages a renewed appreciation of Durante's comic energy and timing. The "Schnozz" had the rare gift of putting his guests at ease, resulting in some inspired moments with the likes of Frank Sinatra and John Wayne, and he knew the comic value of making himself the target of most jokes. Title notwithstanding, there are no dark secrets uncovered or serious dirt dished here. The clips are the main attraction, and Durante fans will love them. Recommended. [Note: the DVD edition includes 20 minutes of additional footage.] Aud: P. (S. Rees)