Directed by Alfred E. Green, The Fabulous Dorseys is a semi-fictionalized musical biopic that traces the rise, fall, and reunion of legendary jazz bandleaders Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey. What makes this film especially unique is that the Dorsey brothers play themselves, bringing authenticity to the music—even if not always to the acting.
Plot Summary
The film follows the Dorsey brothers from their humble beginnings in Pennsylvania coal country, where their father insisted they learn music to escape a life in the mines. As they rise through the ranks of the big band world—first with Paul Whiteman, then with their own joint orchestra—their competitive nature and clashing personalities lead to a dramatic split.
While the narrative is loosely structured, the film is packed with live performances, jam sessions, and musical cameos, culminating in a reconciliation that mirrors their real-life reunion. The romantic subplot involving singer Jane Howard (Janet Blair) and pianist Bob Burton (William Lundigan) adds a layer of Hollywood gloss.
Cast Highlights
- Tommy Dorsey as Himself
- Jimmy Dorsey as Himself
- Janet Blair as Jane Howard
- William Lundigan as Bob Burton
- Sara Allgood and Arthur Shields as the Dorsey parents
- Cameos by Art Tatum, Charlie Barnet, Helen O’Connell, Bob Eberly, and more
Behind-the-Scenes Trivia
- The film features a jam session with Art Tatum around the 54-minute mark—a rare treat for jazz fans
- The “Dorsey Concerto” featured in the film was composed by Leo Shuken specifically for the brothers
- The Dorseys’ real-life feud was well known, and the film’s depiction of their breakup is remarkably accurate, down to the moment of their split
- It was one of 30 films whose financial failure led to their ownership being transferred to Bank of America, then sold to Mundus Television for syndication
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