Review of The Band Wagon (1953) by David B — 15 Mar 2010

Here is a rare example of a film that entertains. The director Vincente Minelli has compiled a great cast with Fred Astaire and Cyd Charisse showing considerable chemistry in their dancing. This is sophisticated entertainment of a type which has alas passed away with a few exceptions (Cabaret and Chicago). I saw this in the remastered version with very good sound and vivid colour. The Art Direction is monumental and this is a must if you wonder what the reputation of Hollywood was built on. This is truly a masterpiece and has pushed out Singin in the Rain in my mind as the best MGM musical of the 1950s. The energy and flow of this film is amazing and might lift your spirits as it did mine.

Totally recommended,.