Okay, let me pitch you a movie idea.
It's the Robin Hood story. Only, they're all gangsters in Prohibition-era Chicago. And it's a musical.
Before you say anything, let me tell you about the talent that's lined up. 4 big names to play the Robin role and 3 of the Merry Men roles -- 3 of the 4 could genuinely be described as legends of popular music. For the Gisborne role, we have someone that has already been nominated for 2 Supporting Actor Oscars and 2 Emmys, with one Emmy win. The Sheriff of Nottingham role also involves an up-and-comer, with a Supporting Actor Oscar nomination under his belt. For the Maid Marian role, we have someone with a solid resume, including a Golden Globe. And the movie starts with a cameo from a screen legend. Plus some great tunes, with at least one that should become a standard.
So, yes, Robin and the 7 Hoods has a ridiculous premise. But there's a lot of star power having a great time. Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Bing Crosby sharing screen time -- and they sing together on You've Either Got or You Haven't Got Style. Frank introduces My Kind of Town. There's also Sammy Davis, Jr., who taps up a storm while shooting up a casino in Bang Bang. Peter Falk plays Gisborne, and while he can't really sing, he's only asked to do so once. Victor Buono plays the Sheriff, and Barbara Rush plays a very different kind of Marian. Plus Edward G. Robinson in a cameo.
Not great art, but a lot of fun. Worth spending 2 hours here.