Out of the Blue

1944. The El Maraca set in the film, “Manhattan Escapade” practically filled an entire studio. It was one of the most extensive sets ever constructed at Monolithic Studios, authentic right down to the running water in the faucets behind the bar. There was such attention to detail, in fact, that Monolithic building crews joked that if the picture tanked, they could just throw open the doors and go into the nightclub business without a pause and recoup the loss.

Monolithic Studios had been at somewhat of a loss as to how to present their “discovery,” Miss Violet Waters, into their mainstream films—and the nightclub setting of “Manhattan Escapade” provided the perfect vehicle for Violet’s debut.

As the white dinner jacketed emcee took the staff, a hush fell over the El Maraca revelers. “...and now, for your sheer enjoyment, Violet Waters and her rendition of “Out of the Blue (And Into Your Arms)’!”

And as the curtains parted, Violet sang her heart out—and into the hearts of audiences lucky enough to see the full version of “Manhattan Escapade.” Starting with only a pinspot on her face and the tremolo of a clarinet, Violet proceeded to convey emotions through simple gestures and the subtle bending of a note—and film historians to this day use this scene as an example of the perfect blend of color, lighting, camera movement and talent to create an indelible, incredible mood.

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