In addition to their musical success, The Comedian Harmonist had great success in films! These films offer a fascinating glimpse into the Comedian Harmonists’ talent, charm, and the turbulent times of pre-war Germany. Here is a list of the films the Comedian Harmonists’ starred in:
Three from the Filling Station (1930)
Their film debut! A musical comedy where the Harmonists play themselves, performing their hit songs and getting entangled in a hilarious mistaken-identity plot.
Bombs Over Monte Carlo (1931)
A lighthearted adventure with the Harmonists as a singing troupe caught up in a jewel heist. Think “Ocean’s Eleven” with close harmony!
The Devil’s General (1931)
A dramatic turn, featuring the Harmonists in a cameo role singing a powerful anti-war song. This film, with its complex portrayal of WWI, later caused trouble for the group under the Nazi regime.
Early to Bed (1933)
Another musical comedy, showcasing the Harmonists’ comedic talents and catchy tunes. This film also features the iconic “Mein kleiner grüner Kaktus” (My Little Green Cactus), a song that became their signature tune.
Catherine the Last (1936)
Their final film, a historical drama where the Harmonists provide the musical backdrop. Sadly, the film’s release coincided with the tightening grip of the Nazi regime, forcing the group to disband due to their Jewish members.
The Musical about The Comedian Harmonists
Harmony, a new musical about The Comedian Harmonists, is now on Broadway.
The complete Broadway cast includes Chip Zien as Rabbi, Sierra Boggess as Mary, Julie Benko as Ruth, Sean Bell, Danny Kornfeld, Zal Owen, Eric Peters, Blake Roman, and Steven Telsey as the Comedian Harmonists, Allison Semmes as Josephine Baker, Andrew O’Shanick as Standartenfϋhrer, Zak Edwards, Dan Hoy, Bruce Landry, Rhonni Rose Mantilla, Daniel Z. Miller, Benjamin H. Moore, Matthew Mucha, Constantine Pappas, Kayleen Seidl, Kyla Stone, Bronwyn Tarboton, Kate Wesler, Stuart Zagnit, and Lee Zarrett.
To learn more about Harmony: A New Musical, click here.
