A film blog for students of my classes at Santa Clara University. Use this blog to discuss the films we are studying, classic films, current releases or production issues you encounter while making your own films.
Tuesday, May 06, 2014
Singin' in the Rain
Most experts consider Singin' in the Rain to be the best American musical of all time. Why do you think this is so widely accepted? Do you agree?
I believe a reason Singin’ in the Rain is so well-known and liked by audiences is because it intelligently incorporates music into a narrative storyline that relates to American history. The film depicts Hollywood in the 1920s and the transition from silent films to talkies. This plotline takes the film beyond mere escapism for audiences by making a comment on society through a sophisticated plot. The storyline mirrors real events and the difficult transition many actors had to face during this time, which makes the film grounded in reality instead of a simple, escapist romance story. Though the film was lighthearted, it still critically reflected on Hollywood and the star system in a way audiences could understand and enjoy. It also acknowledged the evolving tastes of audiences and the tension between theatre and film actors in a very reflexive way. Singin’ in the Rain truly is a staple of the 1950s musical genre that set a high standard for other films of this style. The musical numbers within the film incorporated songs that audiences knew from past films but that were rearranged in a contemporary style, therefore expanding on familiarity to make something new. I especially liked how the songs were integrated and made sense in the storyline. The technicality of the dancing was impressive to watch as Gene Kelley and Donald O’Connor effortlessly glided around the scenes in elaborate tap numbers, which I’m sure dazzled audiences of both the past and the present. The stunt work and physical comedy was also innovative, especially in the hilarious number, “Make Em Laugh.” I especially enjoyed the long takes utilized within these dance numbers, showing the skill of all of the dancers and the precision of the choreography for both the actors and the cameras. Not only was the dancing well choreographed but also the blocking of the actors in the dialogue scenes was perfectly timed so that the camera could move around the scene in a seamless and flowing way. I agree that this film is one of the best American musicals because it took the genre beyond a form of mere escapism by incorporating quality storytelling and technical filmmaking. The subject matter and songs within the film are also purely American, making it more relatable to many audience members.
I agree with those who consider Singin' in the Rain to be the best American musical of all time. I think the reason why it is so widely accepted is because it captures American film history but in a very comical way and through a very developed but lighthearted plot. It's interesting because I think this film presents a different kind of escapism in the sense that because the movie was about a movie, I was very aware the whole time that I was watching a film. Further, with scenes like the one in which Gene Kelley is serenading Debbie Reynolds on a set with the backdrop as a beautiful sky, he manipulates the set (turning on a fan, standing on a random ladder, etc.) to create a beautiful scene. But both the audience AND the two actors within the movie are very aware that it's not reality. Also, in the very last scene where the two are standing in front of a billboard with their new movie "Singin in the Rain", it creates this clever mix between reality and the movie world. I believe this blend of reality and fiction and the film's awareness that it is a movie, added to its charm. Then of course, there is the obvious reason this musical was a hit-- the music and performances. Each musical number was strategically placed, it seemed, in such a way that it did not hinder the narrative, but actually made it flow better. For example, in the scene where Cosmo, Kathy, and Don are singing "Good Morning", it progresses the story because that is how the three figure out they are going to make Don's movie into a musical. The placement of the numbers was just really well thought out. Overall, this was a fantastic movie and is definitely one of the best American musicals of all time. Great sets, great musical numbers... just a really fun film to watch!
“Singin’ in the Rain” was more inventive of a plot than the majority of genre films of its era. It explored the film industry itself in a time of turmoil and actually examined the process and reaction of the film world to the re-invention of cinema by way of “talkies”. I remember first watching “Singin in the Rain” when I was little and being enamored by the novelty of it all. You are allowed to see (in bits and pieces), how film is made, and the culture surrounding it: the backstage process of it all—of course in classic Hollywood over-amped dramatization. You see the dichotomy between real life relationships and studio created ones of the typical studio star. The film provides a little commentary and actually bases some of its content off of real life. Given the ability to see the mechanisms of anything is always appealing to an audience—and Singin in the Rain gives just the right amount. I think that the combination of its content, its ability to play off of a real-life event that occurred in film, changing it forever, with the inclusion of an imaginative storyline that revealed enough about the film industry in such a way that it made Hollywood desirable.
I agree that Singin' in the Rain should be considered one of the best American musicals of all time due to its plot and representation of the 1920s film industry. It shows the transition of silent films into what is considered "talkies" through the performances of the actors and narrative. Its ability to incorporate musical aspects that are relevant to the Hollywood industry make it especially groundbreaking in a humorous as well as colorful way. Singin' in the Rain also portrays an uplifting love story in which the audience can relate to while also showing technological developments having to do with sound that are still used in the film industry today.
What I think made Singin' in the Rain such a phenomenon was the colorful way it satirized the troubling period in Hollywood where silent films were becoming talkies. It did this by incorporating humor and entertaining song and dance. Audiences love to see anything related to 'behind the scenes' subject manor, and Singin' in the Rain takes us on a journey through the eyes of the filmmakers. It allowed audiences to see the struggles as well as the success of making a film, and I think that is what captured so many people. The plot line was very forward thinking, even though it was reflecting on something that had happened in the past, it was still moving forward. It is also an exciting film filled with dance numbers that thrilled audiences alike. All of these reasons are why I believe that Singin' in the Rain is widely accepted as one of the best musicals ever made.
Singin’ in the Rain is the best American musical ever made for a variety of reasons, and unfortunately I don’t think Hollywood has ever been able to recreate the magic that is Singin’ in the Rain again. The film integrated the song-and-dance numbers plausibly into the story, the story itself is multi-dimensional, discussing an interesting transitional time in the movie industry, the characters are dynamic, talented and entertaining, and the songs and dances by themselves are phenomenal. Personally I’ve never been a fan of any other musical besides Singin’ in the Rain, and I think a lot of it has to do with the beautiful integration of story and music.
I can agree with those that have said that Singin' in the Rain is the best musical of all time. Throughout the years it has stood the test of time, despite the technological breakthroughs and the various fads, people still watch and enjoy this film. This plot is quite different from other films, it took a piece of American history, the transition from silent to sound, and allowed for some creative inclusion of the roles of the camera and microphone as well as the producer and director in the making of the film. It was as though the audience was able to see backstage in the making of a film. The film also appeals to an array of audiences. It has the romance as well as the great comic relief so that the audience enjoys the plot as well as the musical numbers. The musical numbers in the film are also showcased fantastically. The long and wide shots of the numbers allow for the actors and choreographers to have these really complex and entertaining dances. The musical numbers also did not take away from the narrative. The songs fit well into the plot and did not seem awkward or misplaced. Since Singin’ in the Rain, there has not been a great musical that was able to appeal to a wide audience, create a unique plot, as well as have smooth transitions from dialogue to musical numbers.
I think Singin in the Rain was so successful because it combined just the right amount of all the right things. And, it came out at the right time. Singing in the Rain is fun, entertaining, and hilarious, with a great dialogue and of course, awesome choreography. It’s romantic and sweet, while also being hysterically funny. And for a musical movie, the songs and dialogue transition very well. Unlike, (for lack of a better example) High School Musical, the musical numbers never seemed forced, and neither do the dialogue scenes. I also think that fact that the film plot centered on actors and Hollywood was instrumental in the films success. I think that by the time Singin in the Rain was released, film was so omnipresent and integrated into everyday life that people wanted to understand what is was like to be an actor. And people who feel in love with movie stars could connect with Don falling in love with the aspiring actress Kathy. Viewers could see what it was like for the industry to transition from silent films to “talkies.”
I think Singin’ in the Rain is considered one of the best movie musicals for a variety of reasons. First of all, the plot is interesting. While it fits the category of “boy meets girl” storylines that a lot of musicals (both on stage and screen) followed at the time, but the plot was more complex and original. I also think that the fact that it was set in a time period that a good number of audience members had lived through made it nostalgic for them, and it must have been exciting for them to see a movie being made in the transition from the silent to sound era. Additionally, the use of color really elevated the quality of the film, and the vibrancy really fits with the excitement of a musical. The actors were also perfect for the roles. Gene Kelly, as a dancer, actor, and singer, was the ideal fit for the role, Debbie Reynolds was perfect as Kathy, and Donald O’Connor was hilarious, especially in “Make ‘Em Laugh”.
I think the main reason Singing’ in the Rain was such a success was because of its incorporation of the songs and dances into the story line. In comparison to watching musicals today, I think that Singin’ in the Rain included the numbers more successfully. Where today audiences are often lead into the song by a corny line, it seemed that each musical number in this musical really had a purpose. It was a part of the plot rather than just being inserted in the story randomly to make the film into a musical. Because the numbers actually added to the story rather than just being uncomfortable and misplaced, I feel that the audience was more drawn to the film. I also think that this film was successful because of the quality of the musical numbers; the dances were complex and well choreographed. They weren’t overworked or cheesy like we see so often today. Overall the film had a great plot, intricate dancing and interesting characters, and displayed them to us in a way that the audience was not used to, by allowing for them to have a glance at how a movie is made which creates even more interest. I think that all of these aspects combined is what makes Singin’ in the Rain one of the best musicals of all time.
Typically I am not a fan of musicals, but that wasn't the case with Singin' in the Rain. Like my classmates have said, I believe Singin’ in the Rain is the best American musical of all time, and it’s one of the only ones I have been able to tolerate watching. This is largely because of the fact that the musical numbers are not just randomly dispersed throughout the story, but they are integrated into the story. These numbers move the narrative along, instead of going on tangent like is the case with so many musicals. I also enjoyed the dancing in the film. The long takes showed how elaborate and rehearsed the numbers had to be. I particularly enjoyed the tap dancing. The story itself is also a large reason why I believe the film is so widely accepted. The satirical story uses humor to describe a serious and troubling time in film history. For the first time, we get to go behind the scenes and experience what is going on in the filmmaking world as Hollywood transitions out of the silent film bubble. Because of this, audiences are able to feel like they can relate to not only the film but the film industry as a whole. In my opinion, Singin’ in the Rain is the best American musical of all time because the musical numbers push along the narrative and the story allows the audience to relate to the film, history, and the industry itself.
I agree with all the previous blog posts that "Singin’ in the Rain" is in fact the best American musical every made. There are countless reasons for the movies lasting appreciation and success, but the most noteworthy being is flawless combination of song-and-dance numbers accompanied by a dynamic and intriguing storyline/narrative. The song-and-dance numbers are impeccable; Gene Kelly’s “Singin’ in the Rain” number, dancing socking wet is still today the most memorable song and dance number every performed, and Donald O’Connor’s acrobatic and lively “Make em’ Laugh” will never be topped or recreated by anyone. Each of the song-and-dance numbers stand alone as some of the best examples of performance quality every seen in all of film, theater and dance history. In addition, the historically relevant narrative dealt with Hollywood’s transition from silent to sound films, thus stressing the importance of sound and color to an extreme. “Singin’ in the Rain” uses a phenomenal display of new technology with vivid colors and cinemascope, showing audiences the endless possibilities of film especially when combined with musical theater. The movie has a “backstage” quality that also gave the audience an inside look at the workings of the film industry in a entertaining and multi-dimensional manner. Above all, it is without a doubt one of the best and most entertaining “feel good” films of all time. The combination of song-and-dance, narrative and cinematography are untouchable by any other film in American cinema.
Singin in the Rain is a classic and widely received as the best musical Hollywood has ever seen. It truly captivated the nature of what a musical should be. It was whimsical and had a joyful nature. The dance and musical numbers were so perfectly in sync and extremely catchy, yet simple songs of happiness and aspects of life. For example, Not only did Singin' in the Rain have a lighthearted nature and a strong comedic and satiric tone, the film cleverly because of the connection and incorporation of the early (1920s-30s), at the introduction of talking picture; essentially intro of sound, which is crucial for a musical. The studio system and Hollywood movie industry was depicted at its height of early stardom and popularity, and of course the power of the studio heads. I enjoyed the plot, which was easy to follow, the characters, and the numbers and dancing, the choreography is great as it still holds up today. I think it holds as one of Hollywood's best musicals, due to it being one of the first and one of the best, is something that musicals today are inspired today, the characters, dialogue, sets, choreography and songs all blended perfectly.
Singin' in the Rain goes above and beyond other genre films of that era in terms of inventiveness. This film happened during turmoil where it was able to take a look at its reaction. I watched this movie for the first time when I was in the 4th grade at my grandma's house. It's my grandma's favorite movie so I automatically loved it. I really enjoyed the fact that I was able to see certain aspects of film. For instance, I was able to see specific relationships that ranged from real ones to relationships based off of studio. The movie was such a hit because there were parts of the film that gave hints at real life. Singin' in the Rain is one of the greatest American musicals of all time because audiences enjoy the fact that you can see part of the film being developed in real life. Not only that but the content of the movie is very strong. Due tot his, film changed immensely combining the elements of real life and film industry in which Hollywood highlighted it and dramatized it.
Singin' in the Rain is considered to be one of the best American musical films of all time. The film depicts the Hollywood film industry in the 1920's in a comical, light hearted, and entertaining way. The story focuses on three characters that are going through the difficulties and triumphs of transitioning from silent films to talkies. The film includes incredible choreography and musical numbers that are funny, but also accurately represent Hollywood at the time. Many aspects of the film have been reused in other films or television shows, such as the plot or the "Singin' in the Rain" dance routine. Audiences found the film to be relatable, entertaining, and funny. The combination of singing, dancing, a relatable story line, romance, comedy and cinematography make Singin' in the Rain one of the best American musicals of all time.
"Singin' in the Rain" was probably one of my favorite films we have watched so far. Mainly because of its ability to brilliantly combine a well-written narrative, outstanding casting and engaging cinematography. The movie itself did a good job depicting the struggles of American film industry with the introduction of sound. Having studied this era in class, I was able to closely relate to the topic as could (I would imagine) many Americans back in the day. Another aspect of the narrative that I found the most unique was the character development and dialogues. I find it remarkable how dialogues written half a century ago was still able to get quite a few laughs and giggles of me. I can only imagine what it did to the audience back in the day when it could relate to the jokes much better. When talking about "Singin' in the Rain" it is impossible not to mention acting. I can say without the slightest doubt that Donald O'Connor absolutely charmed his way into my heart from the first second I saw him on the screen. He, as well as the other actors in the film, was everything a good musical needs: fun, energetic, handsome, and remarkably charismatic. It was also a great step up in cinematography. Kelly was able to take advantage of the technologies presented at the time and tell the story in a very natural, flowing way. We used a lot of long shots for dancing and singing scenes, however, the played with close-ups and interesting angles during dialogues. This made the film look very dimensional and live and I am sure won "my favorite film" title in the hearts of many Americans.
Signing in the rain is one of my favorite movies to begin with so when I realized we were going to be watching it for class I was excited to see it once again. Experts and critics believe that this film is one of the best musicals ever made. The reasoning for this is due to the fact that this film has everything to make a musical master piece brought into one. For instance this film includes a wonderful cast, witty dialogue, playful store, great cinematography, excellent choreography, and integrated musical numbers. The integrated musical numbers allowed the characters to show their emotions through song throughout the film. True, this film has everything and can be considered one of the best of all time, yet I think it is important to also consider The Sound of Music even more so than Singing in the Rain. The reason I say this is because although Grace Kelly is a wonderful fit for this part Julie Andrews steals the hearts of millions with her singing still to this day even more so than Kelly. Casting does make a difference and I have to say that Andrews takes that to the next step and really explores the musical films further in this world.
I think Singin in the Rain was such an influential masterpiece because of how iconic the combination of song and dance was. It was truly a film that, much like Citizen Kane, broke barriers and blew other musicals out of the water. The main song "Singin in the Rain", is one of those tunes that will be around forever. Everyone has heard this song, and when I was watching this I immediately recognized what I was hearing. There was an excellent use of props as well. Dancing with an umbrella became something that everyone recognized from the film. I think another reason why this film was so influential is because it actually had a story. Many musicals were just song and dance and lacked a good story, but Singin in the Rain had the whole package.
20 comments:
I believe a reason Singin’ in the Rain is so well-known and liked by audiences is because it intelligently incorporates music into a narrative storyline that relates to American history. The film depicts Hollywood in the 1920s and the transition from silent films to talkies. This plotline takes the film beyond mere escapism for audiences by making a comment on society through a sophisticated plot. The storyline mirrors real events and the difficult transition many actors had to face during this time, which makes the film grounded in reality instead of a simple, escapist romance story. Though the film was lighthearted, it still critically reflected on Hollywood and the star system in a way audiences could understand and enjoy. It also acknowledged the evolving tastes of audiences and the tension between theatre and film actors in a very reflexive way.
Singin’ in the Rain truly is a staple of the 1950s musical genre that set a high standard for other films of this style. The musical numbers within the film incorporated songs that audiences knew from past films but that were rearranged in a contemporary style, therefore expanding on familiarity to make something new. I especially liked how the songs were integrated and made sense in the storyline. The technicality of the dancing was impressive to watch as Gene Kelley and Donald O’Connor effortlessly glided around the scenes in elaborate tap numbers, which I’m sure dazzled audiences of both the past and the present. The stunt work and physical comedy was also innovative, especially in the hilarious number, “Make Em Laugh.” I especially enjoyed the long takes utilized within these dance numbers, showing the skill of all of the dancers and the precision of the choreography for both the actors and the cameras. Not only was the dancing well choreographed but also the blocking of the actors in the dialogue scenes was perfectly timed so that the camera could move around the scene in a seamless and flowing way. I agree that this film is one of the best American musicals because it took the genre beyond a form of mere escapism by incorporating quality storytelling and technical filmmaking. The subject matter and songs within the film are also purely American, making it more relatable to many audience members.
I agree with those who consider Singin' in the Rain to be the best American musical of all time. I think the reason why it is so widely accepted is because it captures American film history but in a very comical way and through a very developed but lighthearted plot. It's interesting because I think this film presents a different kind of escapism in the sense that because the movie was about a movie, I was very aware the whole time that I was watching a film. Further, with scenes like the one in which Gene Kelley is serenading Debbie Reynolds on a set with the backdrop as a beautiful sky, he manipulates the set (turning on a fan, standing on a random ladder, etc.) to create a beautiful scene. But both the audience AND the two actors within the movie are very aware that it's not reality. Also, in the very last scene where the two are standing in front of a billboard with their new movie "Singin in the Rain", it creates this clever mix between reality and the movie world. I believe this blend of reality and fiction and the film's awareness that it is a movie, added to its charm.
Then of course, there is the obvious reason this musical was a hit-- the music and performances. Each musical number was strategically placed, it seemed, in such a way that it did not hinder the narrative, but actually made it flow better. For example, in the scene where Cosmo, Kathy, and Don are singing "Good Morning", it progresses the story because that is how the three figure out they are going to make Don's movie into a musical. The placement of the numbers was just really well thought out.
Overall, this was a fantastic movie and is definitely one of the best American musicals of all time. Great sets, great musical numbers... just a really fun film to watch!
“Singin’ in the Rain” was more inventive of a plot than the majority of genre films of its era. It explored the film industry itself in a time of turmoil and actually examined the process and reaction of the film world to the re-invention of cinema by way of “talkies”. I remember first watching “Singin in the Rain” when I was little and being enamored by the novelty of it all. You are allowed to see (in bits and pieces), how film is made, and the culture surrounding it: the backstage process of it all—of course in classic Hollywood over-amped dramatization. You see the dichotomy between real life relationships and studio created ones of the typical studio star. The film provides a little commentary and actually bases some of its content off of real life.
Given the ability to see the mechanisms of anything is always appealing to an audience—and Singin in the Rain gives just the right amount.
I think that the combination of its content, its ability to play off of a real-life event that occurred in film, changing it forever, with the inclusion of an imaginative storyline that revealed enough about the film industry in such a way that it made Hollywood desirable.
I agree that Singin' in the Rain should be considered one of the best American musicals of all time due to its plot and representation of the 1920s film industry. It shows the transition of silent films into what is considered "talkies" through the performances of the actors and narrative. Its ability to incorporate musical aspects that are relevant to the Hollywood industry make it especially groundbreaking in a humorous as well as colorful way. Singin' in the Rain also portrays an uplifting love story in which the audience can relate to while also showing technological developments having to do with sound that are still used in the film industry today.
What I think made Singin' in the Rain such a phenomenon was the colorful way it satirized the troubling period in Hollywood where silent films were becoming talkies. It did this by incorporating humor and entertaining song and dance. Audiences love to see anything related to 'behind the scenes' subject manor, and Singin' in the Rain takes us on a journey through the eyes of the filmmakers. It allowed audiences to see the struggles as well as the success of making a film, and I think that is what captured so many people. The plot line was very forward thinking, even though it was reflecting on something that had happened in the past, it was still moving forward. It is also an exciting film filled with dance numbers that thrilled audiences alike. All of these reasons are why I believe that Singin' in the Rain is widely accepted as one of the best musicals ever made.
Singin’ in the Rain is the best American musical ever made for a variety of reasons, and unfortunately I don’t think Hollywood has ever been able to recreate the magic that is Singin’ in the Rain again. The film integrated the song-and-dance numbers plausibly into the story, the story itself is multi-dimensional, discussing an interesting transitional time in the movie industry, the characters are dynamic, talented and entertaining, and the songs and dances by themselves are phenomenal. Personally I’ve never been a fan of any other musical besides Singin’ in the Rain, and I think a lot of it has to do with the beautiful integration of story and music.
I can agree with those that have said that Singin' in the Rain is the best musical of all time. Throughout the years it has stood the test of time, despite the technological breakthroughs and the various fads, people still watch and enjoy this film.
This plot is quite different from other films, it took a piece of American history, the transition from silent to sound, and allowed for some creative inclusion of the roles of the camera and microphone as well as the producer and director in the making of the film. It was as though the audience was able to see backstage in the making of a film.
The film also appeals to an array of audiences. It has the romance as well as the great comic relief so that the audience enjoys the plot as well as the musical numbers. The musical numbers in the film are also showcased fantastically. The long and wide shots of the numbers allow for the actors and choreographers to have these really complex and entertaining dances. The musical numbers also did not take away from the narrative. The songs fit well into the plot and did not seem awkward or misplaced.
Since Singin’ in the Rain, there has not been a great musical that was able to appeal to a wide audience, create a unique plot, as well as have smooth transitions from dialogue to musical numbers.
I think Singin in the Rain was so successful because it combined just the right amount of all the right things. And, it came out at the right time. Singing in the Rain is fun, entertaining, and hilarious, with a great dialogue and of course, awesome choreography. It’s romantic and sweet, while also being hysterically funny. And for a musical movie, the songs and dialogue transition very well. Unlike, (for lack of a better example) High School Musical, the musical numbers never seemed forced, and neither do the dialogue scenes. I also think that fact that the film plot centered on actors and Hollywood was instrumental in the films success. I think that by the time Singin in the Rain was released, film was so omnipresent and integrated into everyday life that people wanted to understand what is was like to be an actor. And people who feel in love with movie stars could connect with Don falling in love with the aspiring actress Kathy. Viewers could see what it was like for the industry to transition from silent films to “talkies.”
I think Singin’ in the Rain is considered one of the best movie musicals for a variety of reasons. First of all, the plot is interesting. While it fits the category of “boy meets girl” storylines that a lot of musicals (both on stage and screen) followed at the time, but the plot was more complex and original. I also think that the fact that it was set in a time period that a good number of audience members had lived through made it nostalgic for them, and it must have been exciting for them to see a movie being made in the transition from the silent to sound era. Additionally, the use of color really elevated the quality of the film, and the vibrancy really fits with the excitement of a musical. The actors were also perfect for the roles. Gene Kelly, as a dancer, actor, and singer, was the ideal fit for the role, Debbie Reynolds was perfect as Kathy, and Donald O’Connor was hilarious, especially in “Make ‘Em Laugh”.
I think the main reason Singing’ in the Rain was such a success was because of its incorporation of the songs and dances into the story line. In comparison to watching musicals today, I think that Singin’ in the Rain included the numbers more successfully. Where today audiences are often lead into the song by a corny line, it seemed that each musical number in this musical really had a purpose. It was a part of the plot rather than just being inserted in the story randomly to make the film into a musical. Because the numbers actually added to the story rather than just being uncomfortable and misplaced, I feel that the audience was more drawn to the film. I also think that this film was successful because of the quality of the musical numbers; the dances were complex and well choreographed. They weren’t overworked or cheesy like we see so often today. Overall the film had a great plot, intricate dancing and interesting characters, and displayed them to us in a way that the audience was not used to, by allowing for them to have a glance at how a movie is made which creates even more interest. I think that all of these aspects combined is what makes Singin’ in the Rain one of the best musicals of all time.
Typically I am not a fan of musicals, but that wasn't the case with Singin' in the Rain. Like my classmates have said, I believe Singin’ in the Rain is the best American musical of all time, and it’s one of the only ones I have been able to tolerate watching. This is largely because of the fact that the musical numbers are not just randomly dispersed throughout the story, but they are integrated into the story. These numbers move the narrative along, instead of going on tangent like is the case with so many musicals. I also enjoyed the dancing in the film. The long takes showed how elaborate and rehearsed the numbers had to be. I particularly enjoyed the tap dancing. The story itself is also a large reason why I believe the film is so widely accepted. The satirical story uses humor to describe a serious and troubling time in film history. For the first time, we get to go behind the scenes and experience what is going on in the filmmaking world as Hollywood transitions out of the silent film bubble. Because of this, audiences are able to feel like they can relate to not only the film but the film industry as a whole. In my opinion, Singin’ in the Rain is the best American musical of all time because the musical numbers push along the narrative and the story allows the audience to relate to the film, history, and the industry itself.
I agree with all the previous blog posts that "Singin’ in the Rain" is in fact the best American musical every made. There are countless reasons for the movies lasting appreciation and success, but the most noteworthy being is flawless combination of song-and-dance numbers accompanied by a dynamic and intriguing storyline/narrative. The song-and-dance numbers are impeccable; Gene Kelly’s “Singin’ in the Rain” number, dancing socking wet is still today the most memorable song and dance number every performed, and Donald O’Connor’s acrobatic and lively “Make em’ Laugh” will never be topped or recreated by anyone. Each of the song-and-dance numbers stand alone as some of the best examples of performance quality every seen in all of film, theater and dance history.
In addition, the historically relevant narrative dealt with Hollywood’s transition from silent to sound films, thus stressing the importance of sound and color to an extreme. “Singin’ in the Rain” uses a phenomenal display of new technology with vivid colors and cinemascope, showing audiences the endless possibilities of film especially when combined with musical theater.
The movie has a “backstage” quality that also gave the audience an inside look at the workings of the film industry in a entertaining and multi-dimensional manner. Above all, it is without a doubt one of the best and most entertaining “feel good” films of all time. The combination of song-and-dance, narrative and cinematography are untouchable by any other film in American cinema.
Singin in the Rain is a classic and widely received as the best musical Hollywood has ever seen. It truly captivated the nature of what a musical should be. It was whimsical and had a joyful nature. The dance and musical numbers were so perfectly in sync and extremely catchy, yet simple songs of happiness and aspects of life. For example, Not only did Singin' in the Rain have a lighthearted nature and a strong comedic and satiric tone, the film cleverly because of the connection and incorporation of the early (1920s-30s), at the introduction of talking picture; essentially intro of sound, which is crucial for a musical. The studio system and Hollywood movie industry was depicted at its height of early stardom and popularity, and of course the power of the studio heads. I enjoyed the plot, which was easy to follow, the characters, and the numbers and dancing, the choreography is great as it still holds up today. I think it holds as one of Hollywood's best musicals, due to it being one of the first and one of the best, is something that musicals today are inspired today, the characters, dialogue, sets, choreography and songs all blended perfectly.
Singin' in the Rain goes above and beyond other genre films of that era in terms of inventiveness. This film happened during turmoil where it was able to take a look at its reaction. I watched this movie for the first time when I was in the 4th grade at my grandma's house. It's my grandma's favorite movie so I automatically loved it. I really enjoyed the fact that I was able to see certain aspects of film. For instance, I was able to see specific relationships that ranged from real ones to relationships based off of studio. The movie was such a hit because there were parts of the film that gave hints at real life. Singin' in the Rain is one of the greatest American musicals of all time because audiences enjoy the fact that you can see part of the film being developed in real life. Not only that but the content of the movie is very strong. Due tot his, film changed immensely combining the elements of real life and film industry in which Hollywood highlighted it and dramatized it.
Singin' in the Rain is considered to be one of the best American musical films of all time. The film depicts the Hollywood film industry in the 1920's in a comical, light hearted, and entertaining way. The story focuses on three characters that are going through the difficulties and triumphs of transitioning from silent films to talkies. The film includes incredible choreography and musical numbers that are funny, but also accurately represent Hollywood at the time. Many aspects of the film have been reused in other films or television shows, such as the plot or the "Singin' in the Rain" dance routine. Audiences found the film to be relatable, entertaining, and funny. The combination of singing, dancing, a relatable story line, romance, comedy and cinematography make Singin' in the Rain one of the best American musicals of all time.
"Singin' in the Rain" was probably one of my favorite films we have watched so far. Mainly because of its ability to brilliantly combine a well-written narrative, outstanding casting and engaging cinematography.
The movie itself did a good job depicting the struggles of American film industry with the introduction of sound. Having studied this era in class, I was able to closely relate to the topic as could (I would imagine) many Americans back in the day. Another aspect of the narrative that I found the most unique was the character development and dialogues. I find it remarkable how dialogues written half a century ago was still able to get quite a few laughs and giggles of me. I can only imagine what it did to the audience back in the day when it could relate to the jokes much better.
When talking about "Singin' in the Rain" it is impossible not to mention acting. I can say without the slightest doubt that Donald O'Connor absolutely charmed his way into my heart from the first second I saw him on the screen. He, as well as the other actors in the film, was everything a good musical needs: fun, energetic, handsome, and remarkably charismatic.
It was also a great step up in cinematography. Kelly was able to take advantage of the technologies presented at the time and tell the story in a very natural, flowing way. We used a lot of long shots for dancing and singing scenes, however, the played with close-ups and interesting angles during dialogues. This made the film look very dimensional and live and I am sure won "my favorite film" title in the hearts of many Americans.
Signing in the rain is one of my favorite movies to begin with so when I realized we were going to be watching it for class I was excited to see it once again. Experts and critics believe that this film is one of the best musicals ever made. The reasoning for this is due to the fact that this film has everything to make a musical master piece brought into one. For instance this film includes a wonderful cast, witty dialogue, playful store, great cinematography, excellent choreography, and integrated musical numbers. The integrated musical numbers allowed the characters to show their emotions through song throughout the film. True, this film has everything and can be considered one of the best of all time, yet I think it is important to also consider The Sound of Music even more so than Singing in the Rain. The reason I say this is because although Grace Kelly is a wonderful fit for this part Julie Andrews steals the hearts of millions with her singing still to this day even more so than Kelly. Casting does make a difference and I have to say that Andrews takes that to the next step and really explores the musical films further in this world.
I think Singin in the Rain was such an influential masterpiece because of how iconic the combination of song and dance was. It was truly a film that, much like Citizen Kane, broke barriers and blew other musicals out of the water. The main song "Singin in the Rain", is one of those tunes that will be around forever. Everyone has heard this song, and when I was watching this I immediately recognized what I was hearing. There was an excellent use of props as well. Dancing with an umbrella became something that everyone recognized from the film. I think another reason why this film was so influential is because it actually had a story. Many musicals were just song and dance and lacked a good story, but Singin in the Rain had the whole package.
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