Review of An American in Paris (1951) by Chris W — 08 Mar 2012
Using the music of George Gershwin as a foundation, Vincente Minnelli directs this Oscar winner about an American G.I. named Jerry living as an expat in Paris who, while trying to make a living as a painter, not only falls in love with Paris, but also with a young perfume shop clerk named Lise. Unfortunately, Lise is engaged, unbeknownst to Jerry. Not only that, but he's also unaware that a woman who has taken an interest in his work is actually more interested in him than his paintings.
Okay, so the story isn't all that impressive, and neither are the characters, but the film is still a success, if only because of the whole style over substance thing (in one of the cases where this is ultimately good instead of bad). With Gene Kelly in the lead, you know there's gonna be some great song and dance numbers, and this film doesn't disappoint. The crowining achievement here is the 17 minute ballet that makes up the film's climax: a real shostopper of a number set to the Gershwin piece the film is named after. In this one sequence alone, the audience is treated to a excellent narrative told through dance and music (but no words) that features soem excellent Impressionst style costumes and sets. It's a great moment, and the whole film could have been excellent had it all been like this.
It's not though, but I still kinda like it. The characters are likeable, even though not much is done to really develop them substantially or make you care about them immensenly. The perforamnces are at least decent. Kelly is of course terrific, and Leslie Caron does a good job in her film debut as Lise. Nina Foch is also good, but I could have used more of her.
All in all, a decent musical, but nothing tremednously special. It sure could have been, but it's not. I do like it though, and think that if you have an interest in any of the cast, the director, musicals, or Gershwin, then you'd do well to give it a watch...just don't expect it to be the Oscar masteriece it was hailed as being though.
This review of An American in Paris (1951) was written by Chris W on 08 Mar 2012.
An American in Paris has generally received positive reviews.
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