25 Aug For the Boys
For the Boys, WWII Movie starring Bette Midler and James Caan
(1991) “For the Boys” is the story of Dixie Leonard and Eddie Sparks who teamed up during World War II to entertain the troops. Bette Midler is fabulous and was nominated for an Academy Award. James Caan was fine. He just never came across as being as good as Eddie was supposed to be.
As I watched the movie I kept thinking, “Who are Dixie Leonard and Eddie Sparks?” Well, they’re not real people. However, I read that after this movie was released Martha Raye believed that Bette’s character was based on her life, and she sued Midler and the producers of this movie. Martha had entertained our troops during three wars. Martha lost the suit, but I can see her point.
James Caan character, Eddie Sparks, was said to be based on Bob Hope.
He was no Bob Hope. Now that’s who should have sued.
Bette Midler’s music was great, as usual. It was interesting to watch the contrasts between the USO shows during World War II and the one during Vietnam.
For the Boys on amazon.com
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