Benny Carter, born in New York City in 1907, transitioned from a celebrated jazz musician to an actor, leaving his mark on cult cinema. He appears in Stormy Weather (1943), where his musical background enriches the film's vibrant atmosphere, and The Snows of Kilimanjaro (1952), showcasing his versatility beyond music. Carter's long career in the entertainment industry, spanning several decades, reflects the dynamic interplay between music and film, making his contributions significant in the realm of cult and exploitation cinema.
Stormy Weather
Dancing great Bill Williamson sees his face on the cover of Theatre World magazine and reminisces: Just back from World War I, he meets lovely singer Selina Rogers at a soldiers' ball and promises to come back to her when he "gets to be somebody." Years go by, and Bill and Selina's rising careers intersect only briefly, since Selina is unwilling to settle down. Will she ever change her mind? Concludes with a big all-star show hosted by Cab Calloway.
