Frank Yankovic: America's Polka King

It's a sure bet that your toes will be tapping at some point during this Emmy Award–winning documentary about the bandleader who was awarded the title of Polka King at a competition in Milwaukee in 1948—and happily held it for half a century. Director Rees Candee delivers an affectionate tribute to Frank Yankovic (1915-1998), portrayed here as the figure responsible for bringing the polka into the mainstream of American popular music. Originally released in 1995, the film includes footage from 1993, when Yankovic was still performing (and renewing his relationship with his children, whom he neglected during his years on the road). Overall, it's a thorough biography, integrating narration by former Lawrence Welk player Myron Floren with archival stills, home movies, clips from stage and television appearances, and excerpts from interviews (with Yankovic, former band members, relatives, and fellow musicians) to trace Yankovic's career from the first time he took up the accordion in his family's West Virginia home through his huge success soon after World War II. And for fun, there's also material from his appearance with “Weird Al” Yankovic—no relation—in Hollywood. It's a pity that some of Yankovic's most famous recordings—such as the “Too Fat Polka”—aren't included, nor are any full performances. But even the bits of favorites like the “Beer Barrel Polka,” the “Clarinet Polka,” “The Blue Skirt Waltz,” and his signature tune, “Just Because,” will still delight nostalgic fans. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)