In 1941 Carole starred in the wartime musical Cadet Girl. She had the leading role of Gene Baxter, a nightclub singer who falls in love with a West Point cadet. Carole was under contract at 20th Century Fox and this was the first movie in which she received top billing. The cast includes George Montgomery (as Gene's love interest), John Shepperd, Janis Carter (in her film debut), Chick Chandler, and Edna Mae Jones. While making the movie she and George Montgomery enjoyed a brief romance. Filming took place at 20th Century Fox studios in Los Angeles from July 14 until August 7, 1941. Cadet Girl was directed by Ray McCarey. The costumes were designed by Herschel.
Carole and George Montgomery
Carole and John Shepperd
Carole sings several songs including "She's A Good Neighbor" and "I'll Settle For You". The movie was released on November 28, 1941. It got mixed reviews from critics and became a modest hit. One reviewer said it was "pretty good entertainment" but that "Carole seems deserving of better material." Unfortunately Cadet Girl is not available on DVD and it has not been shown on television since the 1970s. There is a print in UCLA's archives but it can only be seen by request. The movie was also screened at Cinecon in 2010. In 2022 several of the songs from the film's soundtrack were released on CD.
Carole wearing dresses designed by Herschel
Carole with Janis Carter and George Montgomery
It Happened, It's Over, Let's Forget It
I'll Settle For You
She's A Good Neighbor
Carole's Cadet Girl song are available on CD
