Download The Horn Blows at Midnight (1945) Colorized HD | Jack Benny | Fantasy Comedy Classic

Heavenly Humor: The Horn Blows at Midnight (1945) in Stunning Color

Step into a world where angels and mortals collide in “The Horn Blows at Midnight,” a delightful fantasy comedy from 1945, now beautifully colorized for a modern viewing experience. Directed by Raoul Walsh and starring radio legend Jack Benny, this film blends celestial whimsy with classic Hollywood charm. Perfect for fans of vintage comedy and those seeking a lighthearted escape, this HD download brings a unique gem of cinematic history to your screen.

The Horn Blows at Midnight Storyline: Angels, Dreams, and Misadventures

“The Horn Blows at Midnight” follows the story of Athanael (Jack Benny), a trumpet player in a late-night radio orchestra. During a commercial break for Paradise Coffee, Athanael dozes off and dreams he is a junior-grade angel in Heaven’s orchestra. Tasked with a mission of cosmic proportions, he is sent to Earth to blow the “Last Trumpet” at exactly midnight, signaling the end of the world125.

His adventure begins at the Hotel Universe, where he unwittingly foils a robbery and befriends Elizabeth (Alexis Smith), an angelic assistant who believes in his potential. As complications mount—including encounters with mischievous fallen angels and a series of comic mishaps—Athanael struggles to fulfill his divine assignment. Will he make it to midnight, or will the world get a second chance?

Star-Studded Cast

“The Horn Blows at Midnight” features a stellar ensemble cast:

• Jack Benny as Athanael (the trumpet player/angel)

• Alexis Smith as Elizabeth

• Dolores Moran as Violinist/Fran Blackstone

• Allyn Joslyn as Second Trumpeter/Osidro

• Reginald Gardiner as Composer/Archie Dexter

• Guy Kibbee as Radio Director/The Chief

• John Alexander as First Trumpeter/Doremus

• Franklin Pangborn as Radio Engineer/Sloan

• Margaret Dumont as Mme. Traviata/Miss Rodholder

• Robert Blake as Junior Poplinski (as Bobby Blake)

• Ethel Griffies as Lady Stover

• Paul Harvey as Hotel Manager Thompson

• Mike Mazurki as Bass Player/Humphrey Rafferty461

Movie Genre

“The Horn Blows at Midnight” is a fantasy comedy, blending elements of farce, slapstick, and whimsical satire. Its imaginative premise and playful tone make it a standout in the genre, offering a unique take on both heavenly bureaucracy and earthly mischief.

Historical Context: A Flop That Became a Classic

Released in 1945, “The Horn Blows at Midnight” struggled at the box office, partly due to its unfortunate timing—just days after the death of President Franklin D. Roosevelt and at the tail end of World War II, its farcical take on the end of the world was seen as out of step with the somber national mood81.

Despite its initial failure, Jack Benny’s repeated comedic references to the film on his radio and television shows over the next two decades transformed “The Horn Blows at Midnight” into a cult classic. Today, it is celebrated for its wit, charm, and as a fascinating footnote in the careers of its cast and creators.

Colorization Details

This colorized version of “The Horn Blows at Midnight” has been meticulously restored using advanced digital techniques. The process involved carefully analyzing the original black and white footage and assigning vibrant, period-appropriate colors to each scene. The result is a visually stunning film that brings the whimsy and warmth of its story to life for modern audiences.

The colorization highlights the film’s imaginative sets, playful costumes, and expressive performances, making the comedy even more engaging and accessible.

Technical Details

• Director: Raoul Walsh

• Screenplay: Sam Hellman, James V. Kern

• Story by: Aubrey Wisberg

• Produced by: Mark Hellinger

• Cinematography: Sidney Hickox

• Edited by: Irene Morra

• Music by: Franz Waxman

• Production Company: Warner Bros.

• Distributed by: Warner Bros.

• Runtime: 78 minutes163

Technical Specifications

• Download Format: MP4

• Resolution: HD (1080p)

• Compatibility: Compatible with most devices, including smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs.

Critical Reception and Legacy

Upon its release, “The Horn Blows at Midnight” received mixed reviews, with critics praising its imaginative premise and Jack Benny’s performance but finding the humor uneven18. Over time, however, the film has gained a devoted following, especially among fans of classic Hollywood comedy and Jack Benny’s work.

Its legacy is also tied to Benny’s own career—the film’s box office failure led him to joke about it for years, making it famous among audiences who had never seen it. Today, “The Horn Blows at Midnight” is recognized as a charming and inventive fantasy comedy, worthy of rediscovery by new generations of viewers.

FAQs

• Q: Is “The Horn Blows at Midnight” based on a true story?

  • A: No, the film is a work of fantasy and comedy, inspired by the idea of an angel sent to signal the end of the world.

• Q: Who are the main stars of “The Horn Blows at Midnight”?

  • A: The film stars Jack Benny and Alexis Smith, with notable supporting performances by Dolores Moran, Allyn Joslyn, and Guy Kibbee.

• Q: Is this version of “The Horn Blows at Midnight” colorized?

  • A: Yes, this version has been professionally colorized to enhance the viewing experience.

• Q: What makes “The Horn Blows at Midnight” special for comedy fans?

  • A: The film’s imaginative premise, playful humor, and Jack Benny’s comedic timing make it a unique and memorable entry in classic Hollywood comedy.

• Q: What is the download format?

  • A: The download format is MP4, which is compatible with most devices.

• Q: What resolution is the download?

  • A: The resolution is HD (1080p), providing a high-quality viewing experience.

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Discover the Whimsy of “The Horn Blows at Midnight” Today!