In 1942 Carole had a supporting role in the big band musical Orchestra Wives. She played the role of Natalie Mercer, a the catty wife of a big band musician. At the time she was under contract at 20th Century Fox. Carole recieved fifth billing and was unhappy with her small role. The ensemble cast includes Lynn Bari, Ann Rutherford, Mary Beth Hughes, Virginia Gilmore, Cesar Romero, George Montgomery, and band leader Glenn Miller. Carole has previously worked with Cesar Romero and George Montgomery who was also her ex-boyfriend. Unfortunately she and Lynn Bari did not get along with each other. The movie was directed by Archie Mayo.
Carole and Ann Rutherford
It was filmed at Fox Studios in Los Angeles from April 6 until early June of 1942. Earl Luick designed the costumes. Orchestra Wives was released on September 4, 1942. It got mixed reviews but became a big hit earning more than one million dollars. The New York Times said "The situation is routine; the writing of it is even more so. And the performances of Ann Rutherford as the new wife and Carole Landis. Virginia Gilmore and Mary Beth Hughes as the veteran females behind the orchestra are practically barren of note." The Girl From Kalamazoo was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Orignal song.
Carole with Lynn Bari Carole with Cesar Romero
Carole with George Montgomery, Glenn Miller, and Ann Rutherford
Orchestra Wives is available on DVD
