In 1927 Hollywood, Don Lockwood and Lina Lamont are a famous on-screen romantic pair in silent movies, but Lina mistakes the on-screen romance for real love. When their latest film is transformed i...
Singin' In The Rain is pouring with whimsical musicality and soaking in silver screen magic. The musical genre is not my favourite. Not in the slightest. Taking a drama and having characters randomly burst into a musical number never really appealed to me. But here I am reviewing what is quite possibly the most famous 50s musicals to ever come out of Hollywood. And I'm going to start this review with a bold statement. I've had some time to contemplate and arrange my thoughts before confirming my opinion. Not only is this the best musical I have ever seen, but actually one of the best films these eyes have watched. Period. A stuntman turned actor finds love with a stage actress and must quickly adapt to the era of "Talkies", where dancing, singing and acting are consistently scrutinised.
During the 40s and 50s, actors didn't have to just act. They had to perform energetic choreographed dance sequences whilst singing in tune. Multi-talented stars that put actors working today to shame. This musical takes the evolution of early cinema and uses it to depict a blossoming romance. From lessons in diction to gain the proper pronunciation for the sensitive microphones at the time, to the technical synchronisation of sound and picture. The film doesn't need to convey heavy themes or a tell a melodramatic story. The reason why it has become a timeless classic is because of its light-hearted wholesome magic that is purely made for cinema. The characters, including the bitter Lina, had infectious personalities that made them likeable. Kelly's Lockwood is as charming as ever and Reynolds' Selden (who was an absolute diamond) is magnificently developed. Every character was engaging, and that is primarily thanks to a well-rounded script that was surprisingly comedic. Several laughs came from visual humour, like being unable to capture an actor's voice as they talk away from a concealed microphone, however a large portion of smiles came from silly jokes (particularly from O'Connor's Cosmo). "Remind me to give you a raise"..."Can I have a raise?". Simplistic lines of dialogue like that really do age well.
With a musical, it is imperative that the original songs that are performed are memorable. Well, Singin' In the Rain has some of the best. From the eponymous tune that sees Kelly joyfully dance through a rainy street, to songs like "Good Morning" and "Broadway Melody" that are still referenced today. Whilst the lyrics are catchy and easy to remember even after one watch, it's the choreographed dance sequences accompanying these that provide the core energy for this musical. Absolutely sensational. Kelly and O'Connor were spellbinding as they tap their way through various numbers and dance the Charleston til the sun comes out. Consistently inventive with each sequence being varyingly different. The dazzling frocks and stylish haircuts emulate the era it is portraying with accuracy, making every scene pleasant to watch. Donen and Kelly's directing techniques ensure that minimal cuts were injected within the musical numbers, resulting in several long takes that really draw you in.
To be quite honest with you, I'm lost for words. Unlikely as that is, I am. Timeless classics like this is the reason why I love film. No matter the age and technological limitations, masterpieces can still be conceived. I truly believe Singin' In The Rain is just that, which is why it is getting the perfect rating. I didn't want it to end!
