> First Watches 2021

"You can't throw a party in Hollywood without showing a movie. It's the law."

Something I've noticed of the musicals of the pre-90s era really is that dance was just as important, if not as vital, as the music was. Obviously not all the musicals from before then follow that formula, but it was certainly prevalent in the late 40s -60s.

But here, it's every bit as charming and majestic as intended. Gene Kelly is jovial and marvelously capable in this role, while the incomparable Debbie Reynolds steals the show.

While the central conflict takes some time to rear its head, and the ultimate "battle" is over in a matter of minutes, the film uses its runtime to make you effortlessly fall in love with these characters and give you memorable tunes that have stood the test of time.

An enjoyable film worthy of its legacy.