The Peak of MGM-ness

Rating: 10/10 (20 August 2002)

Together with An American in Paris, this film represents the pinnacle of the great MGM musicals. And there's nothing new in stating that, or how wonderful Gene Kelly is, or Donald O'Connor is or the screenplay or the music etc etc.
But what about Jean Hagen? What a supreme comedy performance. And where did it lead her? To years and years of sitcom wife-ness with Danny Thomas. Why didn't MGM build her up as the rival to Judy Holliday?

One of the many great things about this film is that it is a musical- COMEDY, and the comedy part is largely due to her fabulous performance, PUT TOGETHER.