Is What's Cookin'? Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1942)

📖 The Core Premise

What's Cookin'? returns to the screen in 1942, bringing a fresh narrative to the Comedy, Music genre. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "J. P. Courtney wants to update the music on the radio program he sponsors, but his wife, Agatha Courtney, is the final authority and addicted to the classics and won't allow him to replace Professor Bistell and his symphonic orchestra. Conspiring with his daughter Sue and her friends, Marvo the Great, the Andrews Sisters, Anne Payne and bandleader Woody Herman, they devise a sabotage plot that gets rid of Professor Bistell, and a new sound is soon heard on the program."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. Patty Andrews does well with the material given, though the script occasionally limits their range. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good Comedy. While there are moments of brilliance, the pacing occasionally dips.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is What's Cookin'? worth your time? If you appreciate Comedy, Music films that take risks, this is likely a decent one-time watch. However, if you are looking for a flawless masterpiece, you might find some plot points predictable.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, What's Cookin'? is a mixed bag with some redeeming qualities. With a runtime of 69 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Watch on OTT.