Music,Romance,Drama
United States of America
Pennies from Heaven is a 1981 musical comedy-drama directed by Herbert Ross. It is based on a BBC television drama, which aired in 1978. The film stars Steve Martin as Arthur Parker, Bernadette Peters as Eileen, and Jessica Harper as Joan.
The film takes place in Chicago during the Great Depression, where Arthur is a sheet music salesman who dreams of becoming a successful songwriter. He meets Eileen, a schoolteacher, in a music store and falls in love with her. However, he is already married to Joan, who works as a teacher and is unhappy with their marriage.
Arthur's attempts to sell his songs are unsuccessful, and he begins to resort to illegal activities to make money. Eileen discovers his deceit and leaves him, causing Arthur to spiral into a depression.
Throughout the film, the characters sing and dance to popular songs from the thirties, including "Let's Misbehave" and "Life is Just a Bowl of Cherries." The musical numbers are choreographed in the glittering, extravagant style of Busby Berkeley.
Pennies from Heaven received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising the film's visuals and musical numbers, while others criticized its dark, depressing themes. However, the film has since gained a cult following and is considered a classic of the musical genre.
