I'm not a fan of musicals in general, but I like this one. The visuals, though clearly 1948, and very vivid and pleasing to the eye. The story also manages to be cute and silly without degenerating into complete nonsense. Gene Kelly does a pretty impressive job during to musical numbers; at times he seems to defy gravity effortlessly. One can't help but be impressed. The real jewel of this film, though, is Judy Garland. I couldn't tell you exactly what it is about her, but she is absolutely fantastic in this film. Her facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice (especially when her character is irritated) and absolutely irresistable. Even if this movie was terrible, it would be worth watching just for her performance.
On the downside, the musical numbers do get a little exhausting and seem just too long for their own good. Yes, Gene Kelly can sing and dance, but somewhere around the tenth minute of "Be a Clown" I felt like driving a dull steak knife through my skull.
On the downside, the musical numbers do get a little exhausting and seem just too long for their own good. Yes, Gene Kelly can sing and dance, but somewhere around the tenth minute of "Be a Clown" I felt like driving a dull steak knife through my skull.