Heart and Soul: The Life and Music of Frank Loesser

Heart and Soul: The Life and Music of Frank Loesser Synopsis

"Heart and Soul: The Life and Music of Frank Loesser" profiles the tough-talking, tempestuous, big-hearted musical genius who made an indelible imprint on American musical theater and popular song. Best known for his Broadway smash hits, "Guys and Dolls," "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying," and "The Most Happy Fella," Loesser wrote songs for over 60 Hollywood film scores, including classics "Baby, It's Cold Outside," "On a Slow Boat to China," and "Heart and Soul." He also wrote the score for the MGM motion picture, "Hans Christian Andersen."

Loesser's success at writing both words and music for Broadway puts him in the elite company of Irving Berlin and Cole Porter. One observer calls Loesser, "Cole Porter, without the martini in his hand," because of his ability to capture the flavor of everyday American life and speech in popular song.

The film features performance clips from the golden age of Broadway and Hollywood musicals, and interviews with Matthew Broderick, Charles Nelson Reilly, Robert Morse, James Burrows, Stephen Schwartz, Jerry Herman, and Maury Yeston, among others. Loesser's widow, Jo Sullivan Loesser, and children Susan, John and Emily share insights and recollections.

"Heart and Soul" has it all: a fascinating subject, entertaining behind the scenes stories, and music that has a special place in Americans' hearts - and souls.