Max Décharné

Did George Formby and Gracie Fields really help Britain out of the Depression?

The cheerful musical films produced in the 1930s may have little intrinsic merit, but they provide a fascinating glimpse of the times

George Formby in the 1939 film Come on George! Credit: Getty Images

Already a subscriber? Log in

This article is for subscribers only

Subscribe today to get 3 months' delivery of the magazine, as well as online and app access, for only £3.

  • Weekly delivery of the magazine
  • Unlimited access to our website and app
  • Enjoy Spectator newsletters and podcasts
  • Explore our online archive, going back to 1828

Comments

Join the debate for just $5 for 3 months

Be part of the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting your first three months for $5.

Already a subscriber? Log in