STORYLINE: Jerry Mulligan, a struggling American painter in Paris, is “discovered” by an influential heiress with an interest in more than Jerry’s art. Jerry in turn falls for Lise, a young French girl already engaged to a cabaret singer. Jerry jokes, sings and dances with his best friend, an acerbic would-be concert pianist, while romantic complications abound.  (IMDb)

Singin’ in the Rain (1952)

The King and I (1956)

South Pacific (1958)

My Fair Lady (1964)

The Sound of Music (1966)

   The films that make up that list all are sone of the greatest musicals in the history of film.  They’re part of the golden age of movie musicals, that was kicked off by 1951’s An American in Paris.

    At the heart of the musical, is a celebration of the arts.  The film focuses on a struggling painter, as he show cases his craft.  The film also does the same with, the central character’s best friend, a concert pianist.  Both art forms are portrayed through out the feature film.

    An American in Paris features all the bells and whistles of a classic musical. The songs are catchy, and dance numbers are lavish.  The grand finale is an incredible number to watch, espically in a theatrical setting. This is a film from an era when movies were meant to be viewed in the the theater.  

    Anyone wanting to know one if the reasons why I prefer going to the theater to see movies on the big screen I sight thus dance sequence as an example.  The same with Stormy Weather (1943).  I have other reasons for championing the theatrical experience beyond the movie, but that’s for another time.

    An American in Paris is a classic movie musical, with all the normal song & dance numbers, and an incredible finale. 

    Until next time I will see you at the movies!