The Duke Is Tops (1938)
Member Rating:
Also known as The Duke Is Tops, this is one of the best examples of the many all-black films made in the 1930s for what were then designated as "colored" theatres. Looking about 15 years old, Lena Horne plays the main attraction for the stage shows put on by a fellow named Duke (Ralph Cooper). When she gets a chance at a Broadway show, Lena swiftly severs all ties with Duke. But when Lena's big-time debut threatens to be a disaster, it is Duke who saves the day. The dialogue is for the birds, but The Duke Is Tops is aces when it comes to musical numbers. ~ Hal Erickson, Rovi
- Starring:
- Ralph Cooper, Lena Horne, (more)
- Director(s):
- William L. Nolte
- Format(s):
- DVD
View All Versions to rent and buy
Synopsis of The Duke Is Tops
Also known as The Duke Is Tops, this is one of the best examples of the many all-black films made in the 1930s for what were then designated as "colored" theatres. Looking about 15 years old, Lena Horne plays the main attraction for the stage shows put on by a fellow named Duke (Ralph Cooper). When she gets a chance at a Broadway show, Lena swiftly severs all ties with Duke. But when Lena's big-time debut threatens to be a disaster, it is Duke who saves the day. The dialogue is for the birds, but The Duke Is Tops is aces when it comes to musical numbers. ~ Hal Erickson, Rovi
Complete Cast of The Duke Is Tops
- Ralph Cooper - Duke Davis
- Lawrence Criner - Doc Dorando
- Vernon McCalla - Mason
- Neva Peoples - Ella
- Everett Brown - Sheriff
- Guernsey Morrow - Lake
- Marie Bryant
- Ray Martin - Joe
- Charles Hawkins - Sam
- Lena Horne - Ethel
- Monte Hawley - Marshall
- Edward Thompson - Fenton
- Johnny Taylor - Dippy
- Arthur Ray - Druggist
- The Basin Street Boys - Singing Quartet
- The Cats and the Riddle - Instrumental Trio
- Rubber Neck Boys
- Rubberneck Holmes - Dancer
- Director(s):
- William L. Nolte
- Writer(s):
- Phil Dunham
- Producer(s):
- Harry M. Popkin
- Looking for special editions of The Duke Is Tops?
- See All Versions
- Subtitles:
- Check All Versions
- Closed Captioning:
- Check All Versions
BY MAIL
Monthly Subscription
NEW! 7 - Day Rental
No subscription required. Usually ships in 24 hours.
IN-STORE
What's Your Take?
Member Reviews
