No one suffered more magnificently in the early-talkie era than the inimitable
Helen Twelvetrees. In
Grand Parade, the actress is cast as Molly, the sweetheart of minstrel-show performer Jack Kelly (
Fred Scott). Rising to the top of his profession, Kelly plummets to the bottom thanks to his fondness for intoxicating beverages. Molly nurses and coddles Kelly back to health, giving nary a thought for her own comfort or happiness. Our hero finally makes a spectacular comeback -- but will he cast off Molly in favor of seductive burlesque queen Polly (Marie Astaire)? In the typical fashion of early talkies, The Grand Parade contains way too many musical numbers, though the title tune is rather pleasant. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide