Siiinnngggiinnn' in the Raaaiiiinnnnn!

Another movie week, another Hollywood masterpiece! Singin’ in the Rain was released in 1952 and is described by its tagline as a “Singin’ Swingin’ Glorious Feelin’ Technicolor Musical”… and they weren’t kidding. For such an upbeat and cheery musical, there are a lot of serious issues and manipulation in the plot of this movie—from the transition of silent to talking motion pictures to the cut-throat politics of movie production.

The revealing of the first “talkie” motion picture was interesting. When it was first introduced to the various movie stars and other high society film makers they all blew it off as a hoax. I know that innovation is often ignored or simply cast aside as a waste of time and energy, but I don’t understand how they didn’t see the appeal! I know it’s because silent films were all they had known, but it was probably their own fears of the future and having to adjust to this new revolution—people don’t like change! (Especially when the past has made you rich and famous)

When I hear the phrase “they don’t make ‘em like they used to,” I generally roll my eyes. But in the case of Singin’ in the Rain it is entirely true. What I loved so much about it was its musical interludes and upbeat tone even through adversity. This movie had a truly magical feel about it. What impressed me most was the amazing talent of the actors. They all possessed what is known as the “triple threat” in the entertainment business, or the ability to sing, dance, and act. Gene Kelley was badass. Not only was he ridiculously attractive, he could tap dance, sing and act brilliantly, and he was the co-director! I think that when the main star of a movie is also the director he is able to convey his vision much more effectively; however, I think sometimes it would be difficult to step back and observe flaws that could be seen from different perspectives.

I loved the fact that the movie was in Technicolor. Everything was so vivid and dreamlike. The entire movie felt like a fantasy. Even in a downpour of rain the audience is taken on a fanciful journey of song and dance! One of my favorite memories as a kid was going to MGM Studios in Walt Disney World and standing underneath an umbrella that was attached to a light pole with gallons of water pouring over the top—my mom still has the picture. I’m very glad we watched this movie.