The Bottom Line
- One of the greatest all-time movies of any kind
- Exuberant musical that brings joy to most viewers
- DVDs are loaded with extras and music CD makes for enjoyable listening
- Not for people who don't like musicals
- Movie doesn't offer much beyond pure entertainmen
- Some object to "Broadway Rhythm Ballet" number because it’s not well-integrated into story
Description
- Classic Collection Box Set (2 DVDs + 1 music CD) containing MGM musical "Singin' in the Rain" (1952)
- Movie ranks #10 in 2002 "Sight and Sound" Critics' Poll
- Movie ranks #10 in American Film Institute’s list of 100 greatest movies
- Film stars Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds, Donald O’Connor, and Jean Hagen
- DVD contains feature-length audio commentary by actors, screenwriters, co-director, and others
- DVDs contain making-of feature (36 min.)
- DVDs contain documentary on legendary musical movie producer Arthur Freed (86 min.)
- DVDs contain 12 excerpts from movies where songs originated plus "You Are My Lucky Star" outtake
- Music CD contains 4 numbers from film
- DVD version of movie has outstanding picture and sound quality
Guide Review - "Singin' in the Rain" DVD Review
I recently acquired the "Singin' in the Rain" Classic Collection Box Set, which contains two DVDs and one music CD. I've never seen this joyous classic movie looking and sounding better, the DVDs are loaded with extras, and it's fun to have the separate music CD just for listening.
I love the musical performances in "Singin' in the Rain," particularly Gene Kelly's of the title song, Donald O'Connor's of "Make 'Em Laugh," and Kelly, O'Connor, and Debbie Reynolds doing "Good Morning." I also like the 13-minute extravagant production number "Broadway Rhythm Ballet," where Kelly dances with guest star Cyd Charisse, who wears a 25-foot veil part of the time. I think the story in "Singin' in the Rain" is fun, too. It's set in 1927-28 Hollywood and is about turning a silent romantic drama titled "The Duelling Cavalier" into a musical called "The Dancing Cavalier." But there's a huge problem: the leading lady (played with comedic flair by Jean Hagen) can't act, can't sing, and can't dance. In fact, her speaking voice is so irritating, she has no chance of making the transition from silents to talkies.
To my mind, few movie musicals can even come close to the feeling of enchantment that "Singin' in the Rain" delivers. Both the sound and picture quality on the DVD are exceptional, adding to the delight of watching this masterpiece. In addition, the bonus materials enormously enhanced my enjoyment of the box set.
