The Toast of New Orleans (1950)

by Tristi Pinkston | More from this Blogger

19 Jun 2008 02:00 PM

Kathryn Grayson and Mario Lanza made such a smash together in Lanza's first film "That Midnight Kiss," Hollywood decided to pair them up again for "The Toast of New Orleans." This time, Grayson plays Suzette Michelene, an opera diva who thinks a great deal of herself. While out touring the bayou areas of Louisiana with the owner of her opera company, Jacques (David Niven) they happen upon a charming festival, where the fishing boats receive a blessing from the local priest, who sprinkles the decks with holy water. One of the fisherman spots Suzette and is immediately taken with her. His name is Pepe Duvall (Mario Lanza) and he's used to getting any girl he wants. But he's never met a girl like Suzette, who shuts him down at every opportunity.

Looking for a way to get her attention, he finds one when she's asked to sing at that evening's festivities. He hops up on stage and starts singing with her. Unsure what to do, she finishes the song, and the audience is charmed-they think it's been a lovely duet. Suzette is not so charmed, and Jacques sees an opportunity to make some money. He invites Pepe to come to New Orleans to try out for the opera. Pepe is happy with his fishing career, but when a storm comes up and the boat sinks, he changes his mind.

Suzette has a hard time singing with Pepe-he has a natural charisma and people are drawn to him, and she's had to work to build up the fan base she has. However, she can see the benefit to her if he stays with the opera-Jacques has arranged a European tour, and they need the money Pepe will bring in to make the tour happen.

This romantic movie is filled with beautiful singing from both Grayson and Lanza, who are very well matched, vocally. This film is not rated.

Related Blogs:

Kiss Me Kate

That Midnight Kiss

It Happened in Brooklyn

Learn more about Tristi Pinkston

I've been a blogger for Families.com since August of 2006.

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Dale Harcombe (10327) 19 Jun 2008 03:00 PM

another charming movie and oh, two wonderful voices!

Tristi Pinkston (10839) 19 Jun 2008 03:06 PM

I did enjoy "That Midnight Kiss" a smidge more, but this one was a keeper for sure!

C.L. Beck (215) 20 Jun 2008 07:30 AM

Sounds good. I'll have to look for it. Mario Lanza had quite the voice. Myth says he started out as a truck driver. I wonder if it's true?

Thanks for the review.

Tristi Pinkston (10839) 20 Jun 2008 10:28 AM

You've piqued my curiosity -- now I'll have to investigate!!