It's rare to see an actor shift from playing a tough criminal to a cheerful singer, yet James Cagney manages it effortlessly in this film. Playing the character of “Thaddeus McGillicuddy,” he’s a bandleader in New York who receives a Hollywood contract. Following a disastrous fight scene, he abandons his plans and takes a trip with his fiancée “Rita” (Evelyn Daw). However, cameras captured his chaotic studio rampage, which was then released as a film, unexpectedly launching him to stardom. Brought back together with the studio executives, he’s given a generous offer under the name "Terry Rooney," but only if he remains unmarried. He's happily married, though, and enjoys it – so the studio must devise clever ways to circumvent this issue for everyone's benefit. Things become complicated by his new co-star “Steffie” (Mona Barrie), who believes he has enough popularity for her to exploit, and when "Rita" grows weary of the situation, she returns to the band. The question is whether he’ll choose love or fame, and if it's possible to have both. Cagney truly shines in his role, supported by enjoyable performances from Daw, Barrie, and studio boss “Regan” (Gene Lockhart). This allows for some humor directed at the controlling nature of Hollywood studios, which dictated everything from clothing colors to marital status. A gossip columnist is consistently present, pleased to uphold the idea that negative stories are entertaining while positive ones aren't news. Philip Ahn also provides amusement with his exaggerated English accent intended for the audience, despite speaking perfectly well. The film runs a bit long, but it demonstrates Cagney’s versatility—he dances, delivers comedic timing, and maintains a captivating charm throughout.

Source on TMDB