[caption id="attachment_2166" align="alignright" width="200" caption="Paul Robeson in the film \"Show Boat\""][/caption]
Asch will talk about Hammerstein's script, screenplay and lyrics at the 6:20 PM screening. There are also screenings at 2:35 PM and 10:05 PM.
Directed by James Whale, who is the focus of a retrospective at Film Forum, this "Show Boat" is not yet on DVD. It boasts arresting images ("Ol' Man River" and its African-American stevedores and workers), original 1927 Broadway cast members (Helen Morgan and her piano) and songs written especially for the film ("I Have the Room Above Her," "Ah Still Suits Me" and the blackface number for Magnolia, "Gallivantin' Aroun'").
The movie stars Irene Dunne (Magnolia), who played the part during a national tour; Paul Robeson (Joe), who was not able to appear in original Broadway production, but played the part in London and in the 1932 Broadway revival; Allan Jones (Ravenal) and Hattie McDaniel (Queenie), plus original Broadway cast members Helen Morgan (Julie), Charles Winninger (Cap'n Andy), Sammy White (Frank).
Film Forum is at 209 W. Houston St. For details see www.filmforum.org or call (212) 727-8110.