This is a fun musical from MGM, based on a Broadway hit that was directed by George Abbott and choreographed by Gene Kelly (Eddie Buzzell and Charles Walters have these jobs for the movie). Several kids from the New York cast were brought out to Hollywood for the film. Harry James and his Music Makers are in it, as well. The band has several great numbers, including Two O'Clock Jump, and Flight Of The Bumblebee. The film contains one of the great numbers in an MGM musical, The Three B's, with Nancy Walker, June Allyson (both from the Broadway show), and Gloria De Haven. It's possibly the musical highlight of the movie. Other high spots include the opening song (Wish I May) and of course the rousing "Buckle Down Winsocki."
It's about what happens when a Hollywood movie star/sex symbol (MGM newcomer Lucille Ball, in a role originally intended for Lana Turner) becomes the date of a military school cadet for a big school dance. But what about his girlfriend (Virginia Weidler), who has come to the school for the dance?
If you know what director Stanley Donen looks like, you can immediately spot him as one of the cadets in the chorus. You can also briefly spot Harry James' vocalist Helen Forrest on the bandstand, though her number was cut from the film.
This movie is also a rare chance to see Broadway star William Gaxton ("Of Thee I Sing") in a movie lead (though he has no songs).
The movie is funny and entertaining.
It's about what happens when a Hollywood movie star/sex symbol (MGM newcomer Lucille Ball, in a role originally intended for Lana Turner) becomes the date of a military school cadet for a big school dance. But what about his girlfriend (Virginia Weidler), who has come to the school for the dance?
If you know what director Stanley Donen looks like, you can immediately spot him as one of the cadets in the chorus. You can also briefly spot Harry James' vocalist Helen Forrest on the bandstand, though her number was cut from the film.
This movie is also a rare chance to see Broadway star William Gaxton ("Of Thee I Sing") in a movie lead (though he has no songs).
The movie is funny and entertaining.