Calling the Tune
1936, English. Directed by Reginald Denham & Thorold Dickinson.
Calling the Tune offers a fascinating look at the fledgeling gramophone industry as it tries to solve the problems of reliable recording and production methods. 'I predict that the gramophone will be the democratic entertainment of the future' states unscrupulous record label boss Mr Gordon (Sam Livesey), who finally gets his comeuppance after one dirty trick too far against his rivals. If the film's love story is perfunctory, the real interest comes with watching performers of the day, from Henry Wood and his orchestra to George Robey and Charles 'the laughing policeman' Penrose laying down their recordings direct to record. And something very like a prototype laser disc makes a crucial appearance too.
- Runtime
- 1h 20m
- Post-credits
- None listed
- Language
- English
- Rated
- Check local
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Where to watch Calling the Tune
Calling the Tune isn’t streaming on any OTT platform in India yet; it released on 30 June 1936.
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Cast & crew
- Reginald DenhamDirector
- Thorold DickinsonDirector
- Adele DixonJulia Harbord
- Sally GrayMargaret Gordon
- Clifford EvansPeter Mallory
- Sam LiveseyBob Gordon
- Donald WolfitDick Finlay
- Eliot MakehamStephen Harbord
- Lewis CassonJohn Mallory
- Ronald SimpsonBramwell
- H.F. MaltbyStubbins
- Robb WiltonJenkins
- Reginald ForsythCameo appearance
- Charles PenroseCameo appearance
Details
- Released
- 30 June 1936
- Country
- United Kingdom
- Written by
- Basil Mason, Reginald Denham
Check ratings elsewhere
News & fan talk
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Calling the Tune: quick answers
Is Calling the Tune worth watching?
Calling the Tune doesn’t have enough ratings for a verdict yet.
How long is Calling the Tune?
Calling the Tune runs 80 minutes (1h 20m).
Does Calling the Tune have a post-credits scene?
None is listed for Calling the Tune. Viewers tag these on TMDB, so a brand-new film may not be tagged yet.
Calling the Tune parents guide: is it suitable for kids?
No age rating is listed for Calling the Tune yet.
Which OTT platform is Calling the Tune on?
Calling the Tune isn’t streaming on any OTT platform in India yet; it released on 30 June 1936. (Checked 9 November 2026.)
What movies are like Calling the Tune?
If you liked Calling the Tune, try Coda, Clika, Battle of the Year.
Who directed Calling the Tune?
Calling the Tune (1936) was directed by Reginald Denham and Thorold Dickinson and stars Adele Dixon, Sally Gray, Clifford Evans.