Review of Singin' in the Rain (1952) by Nathan C — 19 Aug 2011

The greatest musical of all time. And it's nothing short of that title. Nothing else seems to compare.

It's the Golden Age of Hollywood. Two silver screen stars are loved by the audience as they star in silent films. However, the transition to sound forces them apart as one of them has a horrible voice (and a real ego to boot). So the studio devises solutions to make their next movie another smash hit.

Basic plot for a Hollywood flick, but never has this been done so humorously and affectionately that it feels new again. Musical numbers are the reason why the word "showstopping" exists (as well as the first instance of a man ROFL'ing). Great acting, brilliant choreography, and delightful music work together to create a wonderful experience. Harkening back to the Roaring 20's, the movie is without a shred of cynicism. And it actually knows its subject matter dead-on. *cough* unlike High School Musical *cough* *cough* Makes for an enjoyable evening for the whole family, courtesy of Gene Kelly. Movie buffs will truly love this as well.

The "Broadway Melody" sequence feels overwrought, as it takes up a long 10 minutes. What a stretch to do all that dancing for that long amidst different parts. Also, that Lina character was very annoying. Maybe that's how she was supposed to act?

Finally, a musical that doesn't suck! Well, it's an older one, but still... It's hard to resist it because it's so funny, quite warm, very entertaining, and filled to the brim with talent. Yes, talent. The element that seems to be lacking these days. If you're to see only one musical, make it this one.