The loudly heralded new Warner musical, "Stars Over Broadway" achieves one rather definite end. It introduces to the movie-going public a leading favorite of the air-lines, James Melton whose personality and really fine tenor voice will probably establish him as the next serious contender for the crown now worn by that perennial juvenile. Dick Powell. Melton's face conforms to no known standards for eminence in the screen world but his voice registers superbly, and all in all he is a definite addition to the Warner lot.

"Stars Over Broadway" is the story of a singing porter who rises to the heights of fame on Broadway; slips, thanks to alcohol and the attentions of miscellaneous female admirers, and finally through the grace of God and of the ever faithful manager, well-portrayed by Pat O'Brien, is restored to his place in the sun on the stage of the Metropolitan Opera itself. Unfortunately. Jane Froman, whose part is small and devoid of any outlet for acting ability, photographs poorly and looks rather hard. Her voice registers well but the general effect is not nearly so fortunate as it is in the case of Melton. Pat O'Brien delivers the goods as usual and this reviewer would be glad to see him in a role worthy of his ability. Jean Muir and the ever-popular Frank McHugh round out a talented cast which, despite heroic efforts, fails to score on this department's gridiron.

On the stage, the Elida Ballet hits a new high in clever and well-directed routines. They can be compared, not unfavorably, to the Rockettes of New York and this weeks sets also deserve high praise. A Mexican singer, whose microphone technique reminds one of a jumping bean and a clever pair of eccentric dancers fill out the bill, which, we regret to say, is not up to the Metropolitan standard. B. W. 2d.