Musicals: They Don’t Make ‘Em Like They Used To

Once in a while I get in a serious mood to watch my favorite musicals. There’s something about that jolly, technicolor era that you don’t find anymore. Some may find them old fashioned but they are actually great fun for any age.

My #1 top favorite has always been “Singin’ in the Rain“! You just can’t top the music, dancing, and sequences. I think this is the best movie Gene Kelly did, although Summer Stock with him and Judy Garland was a surprisingly good one as well. Debbie Reynolds was so cute when she was younger and “Make ’em Laugh” just cracks me up every time. My daughter wakes up with a smile if we sing, “Good Mornin”.

One of the most famous musicals is “Sound of Music” and for good reason. With a strong storyline and fantastic singing, it’s an all-in-one favorite. I love how culture and history are weaved into a colorful and enjoyable film. The other day, I was showing some pictures to my family and put some music to the slideshow for fun. The rest of the night, they were all singing “Lay ee odl lay ee odl lay hee hoo” under their breath.

Just recently I discovered another two. I was a bit put off by the title of “Annie Get Your Gun” but I’m glad I got past that. This movie is just hilarious and I had no idea so many famous songs came from this! Betty Hutton is the worst actress and singer ever but she makes the move what it is. I watched this with my mom, one of my sisters, and my daughter – we were all crying from laughing so hard.

I just watched “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers” for the second time yesterday and found out how much I really enjoyed it. The songs are so memorable and just plain “happy”. My daughter’s favorite scene is with the brothers showing off their dancing skills. She tried to convince her friends that they should sit and watch with me instead of playing in the tent in the yard…that didn’t work, as you might have guessed.

So next time you are tired of all the drama of current films or just can’t stand any more talking animals, pick up an old musical to put a  spring in your step and to leave you with a fun tune to hum. You can grab any of these at the library if you want to try them out.