I decided it would make more sense to just post one review at a time, even if it’s just a ‘mini review’.
Jan. 6, 2011
6. White Christmas (1954)
Starring Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, Vera-Ellen, Dean Jagger, Mary Wickes
Directed by Michael Curtiz
Written by Norman Krasna, Norman Panama, Melvin Frank
Plot: A pair of song and dance men partner with a performing sister act to help an old Army general rejuvenate his failing inn…just in time for the holidays.
Some may consider January 6 a little late to be viewing a Christmas movie, but I say it’s just in time for Epiphany! Really, this holiday classic makes for fine viewing any time of the year. Crooning Bing Crosby plays wonderfully off wise-cracking Danny Kaye. Vera-Ellen glides through the film demonstrating her accomplished dancing, and Rosemary Clooney has plenty of opportunities to showcase her husky and melodious voice. Filmed in VistaVision and bright, gorgeous color, this film is also a treat for the eyes as show-stopping numbers give way for countless Edith Head creations. The film is light, fun, and fluffy. Everything one would expect from a 1950s musical. Yet a very talented cast and classic Irving Berlin tunes elevate this film to share rank with the best of the genre. There are a few numbers or scenes that may have modern audiences rolling their eyes, but numbers like “The Best Things Happen While You’re Dancing” more than make up for the improbable or overlooked elements of the film. Though I think the best part of White Christmas is the opportunities it creates for quoting dialogue or in-jokes to your family all 365 days a year.
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