Great Early Jazz!
I recently caught the end of this on TCM and wanted to see the complete movie. I love Louis Armstrong, Lena Horn and any of the great early jazz artists. Lots of these "race" movies have not been shown because of the fear of offending someone. We lose many great performances because of this.
This is a tribute to all the actors in it and I wish there were more.

Cabin In The Sky
This is a great classic. I remember watching this movie with my mother and father when I was a child. Ethel Waters - singing "Little Joe", Rochester dancing - my father use to dance the same way - it really brings back memories. Every black family should have this in their collection. Thank you Amazon for stocking this and other great classics!

Cabin in the Sky
Although racial sterotypes are apparent, the pure entertainment vqlue and talent overcomes this negative aspect. Good music and the look into the preconceived concepts of Negro life is an eye awakening that has important social value and education

look closer.
Why does Petunia talk in AAVE but sing like Judy Garland in perfectly articulated SAE? Why is Petunia scolded when she temporarily breaks from this ridiculous singing to let her voice go into a yell? What does that say about the raw passion of the African American woman's voice? Why does Little Joe have to "whitewash" his soul? What's with the caricature-like ridiculous smile during the tap-dancing scene? I was too stunned by the blatantly racist and stereotypical script of this film to enjoy it. This is not entertainment--this is a sorry piece of American history.

Little Joe !!!!!
A classic one of a kind glimpse into an era that is no more. The actors are fabulous and naturals. Saw this once on TV late at night and had no idea. I was at first searching for Green Pastures which is also highly recommended and found Cabin. Both are masterpieces. All black cast reflecting Christian teachings in a different light. Call it the social gospel. A film teaching moral lessons in the context of the old black south with much comedy. The writing, acting and subject is priceless and reflect a time long since past. A must buy for any collection.