First off, let me say Happy Birthday to my absolute best friend in the entire world (and maid of honor) Emily! It is in her honor that I write about another absolutely incredible classic movie, Singin' in the Rain. I'm not sure why, but back in middle school the two of us watched this for the first time at one of our many sleepovers, and it has since become a staple in our movie repertoire. In fact, in my Casablanca post I mentioned that I would tell you when I wrote about my favorite classic movie of all time, and this is it.
Released in 1952, this film takes place in Hollywood during the transition from silent films to "talkies", following a few performers as they try to navigate this new technology. The film begins in front of the Chinese Theatre, where a new movie, The Royal Rascal is premiering. The stars of The Royal Rascal, Don Lockwood (Gene Kelly) and Lina Lamont (Jean Hagen), arrive, and Don gives a touching speech about how he and his best friend, Cosmo Brown (Donald O'Conner), arrived in Hollywood, and how they eventually met Lina - Don's rumored fiancé - and made it big.
However, behind the scenes we find out that Don is less than fond of Lina, and it is not particularly surprising when he falls for the charming chorus girl who dreams of becoming a famous actress, Kathy Seldon (Debbie Reynolds) at The Royal Rascal's after party. It is at this party that they are introduced to the "talking picture", and realize that to keep their livelihoods, they must start creating their own. However, Lina has a less than desirable voice, so Don, Cosmo, and Kathy must come up with a plan to keep Lina from ruining Don's career.
It's an amazing musical comedy, filled with fantastic songs, like the obvious, Singin' in the Rain, as well as Make 'Em Laugh, and Moses Supposes, with incredible dance numbers to boot. So, if you haven't already seen it, please please please go watch it! And once again, I want to wish Emily a Happy Birthday!
