Reviews (4)

Delightful ghost story based on a classic tale
Based on a short story by non other than the legendary Oscar Wilde this version of the "The Canterville Ghost" makes really delightful viewing boasting top notch production values, a superb cast in fine form, and a terrific look that gives the film an appealing and enjoyable appearance.

Being in theory a ghost story the story is full of much well seasoned comedy and really is a film suitable for the whole family to enjoy. I tend to watch this film around Christmas each year and never fail to enjoy the high spirited carryings on of Charles Laughton in what I feel is one of his most appealing roles. "The Canterville Ghost", set in one of those far off misty castles that only MGM could cunger up, tells the story of how Sir. Simon de Canterville through an act of cowardice is walled up in a room of the castle and is doomed to walk the face of the earth for all eternity unless a relative can commit an act of bravery to lift the curse from him. The story jumps ahead a few centuries to the present (1944) where the castle is occupied by visiting soldiers involved in the war. Among them is Sir. Simon's distant relative Cuffy Williams (Robert Young at his most endearing) who is the one selected to perform the brave deed to free his ancestor from his ghostly imprisonment. The tale is an amusing one as Laughton's character first tries to scare and then win over his cynical relative to help him. Charles Laughton is wonderful as the cowardly ghost appearing out of nowhere, screaming, rattling chains and showing his own failings only too obviously. He is surrounded by a terrific supporting cast beginning with gifted child actress Margaret O'Brien as Lady Jessica de Canterville the present owner of the castle. O'Brien, at the peak of her career around this time with triumphs in "Journey for Margaret", and "Meet Me in St. Louis", is a cute delight as the spunky little girl who is not afraid of Laughton's over the top bellowing and corny scare tactics. Robert Young in his last MGM film is also in top form as the young soldier who first is in danger of falling into the same habits as Sir. Simon but who in the end comes through to succeed in freeing his ancestor from his ghostly sentence by an unselfish act of bravery.

"The Canterville Ghost" is about as English a tale as you can get and came along during the war years when all things British were revered in Hollywood. Keeping company with such British outings as "Mrs. Miniver", and "The White Cliffs of Dover", "Canterville' also boasts a superb supporting cast of stalwart British performers so popular in Hollywood during these years. Headed by Laughton himself the film contains great work by the likes of Reginald Owen, Una O'Connor and Peter lawford who give just that right British feel to a production which because of the war had to be filmed in the USA. Technically the film is a superb achievement with Laughton's ghostly special effects a remarkable effort. The sight of Laughton disappearing through walls and flying across a room remind one of that great 1930's ghost story "Topper". Being a product of MGM the film boasts top flight production values in every department and has superb settings with the castle interiors appearing wonderfully spooky and beautiful on the eye.

Among the many versions filmed of "The Canterville Ghost", I feel this is by far the best. Centred on Charles Laughton's unforgettable ghost the production is enjoyable and a fun way to spend a couple of hours. Before computers created all the special effects this film proved what the old Hollywood was capable of achieving. A totally delightful film to be enjoyed by the whole family.

A Charming Bit of Hollywood Fluff
Very, very loosely based on a short story by Oscar Wilde--so loosely that he is probably turning in his grave--THE CANTERVILLE GHOST is nonetheless a charming bit of 1940s Hollywood fluff about an English ghost who runs afoul of American pragmatism. In the film version, the Americans arrive in the form of WWII soliders, including Robert Young, who are billeted at a notoriously haunted castle where they encounter a legendary spectre much given to theatrical materializations.

Although the story is very, very slight, the cast makes it enjoyable. Child star Margaret O'Brien gives a typically enjoyable performance as the unwilling heiress to the castle, and Robert Young and his fellow actors mug their way through the script with entertaining aplomb. The greatest pleasure, however, is Charles Laughton as the ghost, which he plays most delightfully. The emphasis is on comedy rather than ghostly thrills, and although the comedy is quite mild it is expertly done. THE CANTERVILLE GHOST will never make any one's short list of "great cinematic art," but both grown-ups and kids alike will have a good time with it; recommended for an old fashioned family night.

How could it miss?
This is a movie that could cure a rainy day. Great story, great cast, fun SFX (even by modern standings). I think this is the kind of movie they're trying to make again, with mixed success. Funny without being coarse, outrageously sentimental without being cloying, and, my goodness--the "chemistry"! Entertainment you don't have to feel guilty about enjoying.

Very Enjoyable!
By far the Best version of the many made of Canterville Ghost! Robert Young plays his part so well! And the little girl is an inspiration! Many laughs! ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Fun musical
Great cast! Red, Lucy, Gene & a young & (relatively) slender & hirsute Zero Mostel! Plus the great inimitable Virginia O'Brien, queen of deadpan plus Tommy Dorsey & his orchestra, Dick Haymes, the Pied Pipers. How could it go wrong? Well, it could have retained more of the original Cole Porter score, bujt that's Hollywood & the plot is standard Hollywood formula as well. You could replay it with Bob Hope or Danny Kaye & it would come out virtually the same. But I'm glad it was Red, because as this movie demonstrates, he was a naturally funny - make that VERY FUNNY - man, possibly the funniest comic of all.

HAVING A BALL WITH LUCY...
Red plays a hat check boy who's nuts over Lucy, a sassy showgirl who pays him no attention whatsoever. All of this changes when Skelton hits a $75,000 jackpot...Lucy agrees to get engaged to Red although she has a crush on Gene Kelly. Red mistakenly drinks a "mickey finn" which was intended for Kelly - in order to prevent him from attending the engagement party - and the rest of the film is a clever dream sequence with Lucy as Mme.DuBarry, Skelton as a King and Kelly the master of derring-do...Zero Mostel is amusing as the comedy psychic and there's a cute cameo by Lana Turner. While this movie version of the famous Broadway show which starred Ethel Merman and Bert Lahr was completely white-washed in order to pacify the blue-nosed Hays office, this film should at least be a fun-fest for those who love Lucy. Critics were especially harsh on this movie when it was released back in 1943 because the original show was bawdy, risque and totally charming: however, Lucy fans will be astonished at how gorgeous she looks here.

A great musical comedy
This movie was funny, fun costumes, great songs. You could tell why Red Skelton wasn't famous for his singing, but he still did a great job. And watching "I Love Lucy" for years, hearing Lucielle Ball sing in this (at the beginning), it's hard for me believe that that's her voice. I'm not sure. I think it is, but like I said, it's hard to believe. At the end, you KNOW it's her. Gene Kelly has a somewhat small role in this movie, but he's still the wonderful song and dance guy we know so well. My favorite songs are Red Skelton's song: "Esquire Girl", and I believe Virginia O'Brien plays Ginny (?) the Cigar and Cigarette Girl's song "Salomi" that's a fun one to listen to too. It's not my favorite movie, but it's a great one.

A Beautiful Movie
Now don't get me wrong, `Dubarry Was A Lady' Is not the best Movie Musical I 've ever seen, but it is one of the prettiest. I can't figure out how they where able to achieve such a creamy coloration in the film but the rich pastels used on the sets and costumes are just stunning.

There are some wonderful big band numbers with Tommy Dorsey and his orchestra, featuring Dick Haymes. And there is a campy `Salmome' number by the wonderful Virginia O'Brien that is worth watching the entire movie for. Red Skelton has a good time with his duel role, and Gene Kelly looks great and does one nice dance routine, but he mostly sits around mooning over Lucille Ball.

Speaking of Lucille Ball, this was her big debut at MGM, and MGM's first full Techincolor musical. The glamour department certainly did it's job on Lucy's tranformation from RKO frump, to MGM siren, she looks incredible! Her firey red hair and trim figure were perfectly set off by the beautiful contemporary costumes, and she looks great in the powdered wigs, and period costumes as well!

Give it a look, you will be entertained!

Worth It For The Music
This movie is very funny in places. I like how Virgina O'Brien is the aggressor and takes on the man's roll in her relationship with Red Skelton. She shines in the musical number (Solome). The Cole Porter music is great. (Friendship) is definatly the highlight of the movie. Virginia's voice Cadences are astounding. Lucille Ball looks fabulous in technicolor(especially her hair). If you love fabulous forty's glamour girls than you will adore the (Lovely Girls) number. I wish they would of resolved the Virgina and Red relationship more, but I guess they only had so much film. I also wish that Gene Kelly had more than one dance number. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The promise of "One Hundred Beautiful Girls on Horseback" and a personalappearance by the Tommy Dorsey orchestra are among the enticements of this 1943MGM musical, a typical installment in the Mickey Rooney/Judy Garland let's-put-on-a-show genre. Not typical is the quality of the songbook, which trots outsome sublime George and Ira Gershwin tunes: "Embraceable You," "FascinatingRhythm," and a meltingly plaintive Garland solo on "But Not for Me." The plothas rich kid Rooney, energized as usual, sent away to a boys' school in the WildWest as a way of containing his mania (see title). The only gal in town isJudy, the granddaughter of the school's dean. The stars are affectionatelymatched, and musical fans will enjoy the young June Allyson belting out a spunky"Treat Me Rough." Rooney's comedy routine, imitating various radio personalities(including boxing champ Joe Louis), is one of those topical bits that willalmost certainly puzzle viewers today. The director is Norman Taurog, an MGMworkhorse who would later helm many of Elvis Presley's desultory vehicles. BusbyBerkeley staged the rave-up finale to "I Got Rhythm," but the most beguilingproduction number is "Bidin' My Time," sung by Garland and some cowpokes--adroll performance with surrealistic flourishes. Girl Crazy seems nobetter or worse than the average musical of the era, but it was a huge hit, andRooney would never reach this pinnacle of box-office success again. --RobertHorton ... Read more

Reviews (10)

FAST AND FUNNY
In GIRL CRAZY, Rooney and Garland finally grow up, despite the best intentions of a formula which saw them as kids on stage in film after film. Judy plays Ginger Gray, the daughter of a college president. The character Garland once described as "Dorothy Adorable", once given free rein in BABES ON BROADWAY (1941), BABES IN ARMS (1939) or the Andy Hardy movies, has, however, grown more complex. Ginger Gray shows the contradictory and ironic charm of the latter Garland characters, both vulnerable and quick to laugh at herself in a way that the roles as "Dorothy Adorable" hardly suggest. Berkeley films such as BABES IN ARMS & BABES ON BROADWAY had used the familiar "let's put a show on" theme as a glorious excuse for Garland, Rooney and dozens of other chorus folk to concoct variety shows. Although Norman Taurog's (he was Jackie Cooper's uncle) direction and staging of the musical numbers reflected the beginnings of a new style in film musicals, the plot of GIRL CRAZY is completely conventional. Not only are Rooney and Garland featured in virtually every scene, but they usually dominate the frame in Taurog's composition. Tommy Dorsey's orchestra provides the swingy ambience and the musical score is outstanding: "But Not for Me", "I Got Rhythm" "Embraceable You" "Fascinating Rhythm" and "Bidin' My Time" along with 7 others!

Isn't this great!!!!
This CD just came in the mail today. Just popped it in the player and I love it already! Judy's major numbers on this disc are featured on several of her Decca studio recordings, which is where I heard them first. But the original soundtrack performances, as heard here, are the best yet! This is, without a doubt, the best recording of the fabulous Gershwin score (although the 1952 Mary Martin cast album, now the only version in print, is good too). Garland and Rooney always worked so well together. The sound on the disc is wonderful - you'd never know it was made in 1943! All selections are in STEREO (except the Main Title, in monaural), thanks to the (as always) wonderful remastering and remixing job by Rhino/Turner. Unfortunately this disc is out of print, and its a shame that it is (I got my copy via Ebay). Keep an eye open for it, though. No faults with this one; it's great! As another reviewer states, these are quite possibly some of the greatest numbers ever put on film and disc!

One song in particular makes this movie special
I'm giving this film 5 stars based on one particular song in the film: "Bidin' my time". This performance by Judy just knocked my socks off when I caught it some time ago on late-night television. The rest of the film is fine too, but I'm a nut about music (all music from classical to rock) and after hearing this particular rendition I just had to own it. There's something different about how she and her group perform this song. I don't quite know how to describe it but it caught my interest immediately. It seems somehow ahead of its time. Anyway, that particular performance is just a joy to watch. I noticed that the commercial review had also picked up on this particular song.

Some of the best musical numbers ever put on film are here
I ignored this movie for years thinking it was just another over-exuberant essay in the over-abundant MGM collection of sappy adolescent musicals. I'm glad that listening to an English revival of the original musical finally motivated me to watch it, because some of the best musical numbers ever put on film are here. Busby Berkeley started as the director but was replaced for supposedly tyrannical behavior. His production numbers appear at the end and are quite amazing, choreographing "I've Got Rhythm" with guns and bullwhips. All the numbers on this movie are quite exceptional, in particular "Biding My Time" one of the Gershwin brothers' finest and most surprising tunes, but also "Treat Me Rough" and "Could You Use Me". And the arrangements are some of the best I've ever heard, anticipating the harmonies of the Hi-Los and the Four Freshmen by a decade and a half. Judy has never looked prettier nor sung as purely and Mickey pulls out all the stops without (well, almost) going over the top. He even plays a terrific piano solo, with Tommy Dorsey! I never get tired of watching this movie. It's an explosion of pure pleasure.

The fun never stops...
This is Mickey and Judy's best film together. They play off each other wonderfully and Judy's laughter is infectious. But it's the GREAT musical score that makes "Girl Crazy" a movie to go crazy about. This was their last starring feature together (she went on to bigger things in the years following) so get it, tuck it away and keep it for a rainy day when you need a reminder of how talented this screen duo was. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

Gene Kelly and Frank Sinatra teamed up for their first of three musical comedies in this frothy confection of sailors on leave in Hollywood, with gawky, shy young Sinatra tagging along with his worldly buddy Kelly, who promises to show him the ropes. Overlong at more than two hours, this meandering production is light on story, and more than a little sentimental, but full of first-rate entertainment. Sinatra croons "I Fall in Love Too Easily" and "What Makes the Sunset," chirpy costar Kathryn Grayson sings "All of a Sudden My Heart Sings," classical pianist José Iturbi provides a little highbrow interlude, and Gene Kelly dances with cartoon mouse Jerry (of Tom and Jerry fame) when not chasing dames. Somewhere in the midst of this, little Dean Stockwell makes his film debut as a runaway orphan who melts the heart of self-centered Kelly. This big-budget Technicolor extravaganza, directed by MGM stalwart and musical specialist George Sidney (Show Boat, Kiss Me Kate), was one of the studio's biggest hits in 1945. --Sean Axmaker ... Read more

Reviews (28)

I fell in love too easily with Anchors Aweigh
Anchors Aweigh is an MGM classic. When you watch it you'll never forget Gene Kelly's dance with the animated mouse, Jerry, Frank Sinatra's crooning of "I Fall in Love too Easily", Jose Itrubi's brillinat playing of the piano, and Kathryn Grayson's operatic "Jealousy". I don't think this is Kathryn Grayson's best role, but she sure does a good job. Some other songs that I haven't mentioned are "If You Knew Susie", "Waltz Serenade", "All of a Sudden My Heart Sings", and "We Hate to Leave". I thoroughly enjoyed this movie, and if you're a fan of Frank, Gene, or Kathryn, you'll love it too.

Heartwarming, Corny, but Great Musical Fun
When I took the time to actually think about the plot of Anchors Aweigh, I wondered how anyone ever took the movie seriously. Two sailors on leave hope to find love, or at least a girl, accidentally meet a small orphan being raised by his aunt, both sailors fall in love with the aunt and also act as surrogate fathers for the boy, but never fight over the aunt, and promise to arrange an audition for the aunt with Jose Iturbi, the great Hollywood conductor and arranger. One sailor finds the girl of his dreams, another falls in love with the aunt, and everyone is happy, and of course the very talented aunt is on her way to stardom. This movie should not work, but somehow it does work and works well. Why? Because the two sailors are Frank Sinatra as Clarence Doolittle and Gene Kelley as Joseph Brady and Kathryn Grayson plays the aunt. This very talented trio created magic in the musical numbers, and since Gene Kelley is involved, the dance numbers are naturally amazing.

Though the most famous highlight of the film is Gene Kelley dancing with Jerry of Tom and Jerry fame (mixing animation and live action, quite a fete in 1945), perhaps the best dance scene is when Kelley dances with a small Mexican immigrant girl. As in so many Kelley dance sequences, Kelley compliments those who dance with him and seems to never let his ego get in the way.

This movie is more than a far fetched story with great musical and dance numbers. It also says a great deal about America at the end of World War II. Victory was imminent, but the country was tired and needed hope. Movies such as Anchors Aweigh provided such hope, and for this reason alone it deserves praise. And let's face it, who can resist a corny musical with an implausible story that can capture our hearts and imaginations?

P.S. If you don't want to spend more money, avoid the bonus tracks advertising other great MGM musicals, but if you can't resist, don't say I did not warn you!

Anchors A Snore
We bought this movie because we liked Gene Kelly in "Singing in the Rain" so much. While not expecting something quite as wonderful we were indeed surprised at how truly awful it was. The characters annoyed us and the plot was not believable. For a long, long time, we kept hoping for more dancing... or singing... or something... but eventually we went to bed and haven't even finished this movie. The kid was cute, though.

One of my absolute favorite films
Just sheer joy. Gene looking very, very, VERY good, and dancing very, very, VERY well! They didn't come much better looking or more talented than Gene Kelly, especially in this film. Frank (that voice...ah, that VOICE!) skinny and sincere, playing a shy sailor without any experience with women...who said this boy wasn't an actor?!. In other words, Frank and Gene doing what they do best in brilliant Technicolor. Great music, wonderful sets, terrific comedy, and a groundbreaking dance (the first on film, I believe) between a live action and animated character (Gene and Jerry Mouse in the delightful "Worry Song"). Kathryn Grayson, a great beauty with a stunning operatic voice, perfectly complements the nautical duo. I've heard the criticism that the film runs too long...personally, I wish it had been a little longer! A great movie and a lot of fun.

THE CHARM OF THIS MUSICAL NEVER ENDS
"Anchors Aweigh" is bar none the best of the 'sailors on shore leave' musicals that seemed to flood the film market during the 1940's and early 50's. The story is pretty contrite, two sailors fall for the same girl and lie to gain her affections. That's it, that's all. But history has taught us that most musical film fare needs nothing more that this by way of plot in order to captivate its audience.
Gene Kelly and Frank Sinatra are the front liners here. This was Sinatra's first MGM film and he and Kelly are a remarkable team to behold on the screen. Sinatra's scrawniness and Kelly's male bravado bow well with one another. Add to the mix one of MGM's greatest singers, Kathryn Grayson and how could anything go wrong. It doesn't and the resulting film not only won Kelly his first Oscar nomination as best actor but took a Best Picture nomination as well.
Warner Home Video has done a pretty spiffy job on this transfer. Colors, though dated, are bold, saturated and well balanced. During the animated segments there are some instances where color balancing is inconsistent, but nothing that will terribly distract. Also, a few instances of edge enhancement crop up, but again, nothing that will ruin your enjoyment of this great musical classic. The sound, unfortunately, is a big, lousy mono but carried off with such clarity and remarkable spread that one can forgive Warner for not doing a 5.1 remix. The disc also includes a snippet from MGM: When The Lion Roars that explains how Kelly and Jerry (the mouse from Tom and Jerry fame) were able to be seen dancing together. Is it just me or is Jerry awfully big for a mouse?!?
Get the film and find out. This one's a keeper!!! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

It Has Its Moments . . . And Its Flaws
The Story: Two brothers (Clark Gable and Robert Sterling) are reporters who come back from Europe just before World War II and cannot convince their editor that war is imminent in Europe. Robert Sterling is in love with a young reporter at the paper, Lana Turner, but the sparks fly when Turner meets Gable, who's the worldly, playboy-type brother. Gable knows Turner would be good for his brother and that he himself wouldn't be good for Turner's character, but also can't keep his eyes off her. Turner gets sent to Asia to see what's happening there. She disappears, and the newspaper sends Gable and Sterling to find her. Then, Japan bombs Pearl Harbor and all three reporters are stuck on the wrong side of the Pacific, safety-wise, but the right side, story-wise.

Commentary: The movie does some things very well, like portraying the chemistry between Gable and Turner, depicting the ugliness of war realistically, and creating the nationalistic atmosphere that existed early in the War (my father backs that view up, and he volunteered in 1942). However, the characters, especially Gable and Sterling, seem caricaturish: Gable is the playboy who's unsettled and dangerous, Sterling is the good boy who's stable but might be boring in the long run. They each show flashes of depth, but not enough. Turner gives a more three-dimensional portrayal of a woman torn between two extremes: the exciting man who won't be good for her and the boring man who will give her a future and fidelity. Some of the dialogue in the film comes off like it was a propaganda film, but many filmmakers at the time saw it as their patriotic duty to support the war effort.

Overall, it is interesting and has episodes of realism that let us peer into that time, but the acting and dialogue are uneven.

The Girl Really IS Hot....
I'd be lying if I said I bought this movie just because I'm a big Clark Gable fan as Lana Turner really is as fantastic as any actress Gable had worked with. The story is compelling and at times feels forced, but Gable carries himself perfectly as an at times despicable character, but as always the heart of gold shines through. Powerful speech to end the movie tells me all I need to know about how Americans in the 40's felt about the war. Something someone my age couldn't ever really know. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

EXCELLENT MGM OUTING
ABBOTT AND COSTELLO, GOOD FLICK, MGM. NEED SAY MORE

ONE OF ABBOTT & COSTELLO'S BEST FILMS
S. Sylvan Simon directs this HILARIOUS A & C feature. Bud and Lou play a barber and porter in Hollywood. Lucille Ball, Rags Ragland, and director Robert Z. Leonard appear as themselves. The film was originally titled "BUD ABBOTT & LOU COSTELLO IN HOLLYWOOD". This is a FUN film for the WHOLE FAMILY to watch and enjoy.

A&C are in top form in this hilarious MGM outing.
Although, not usually mentioned as one of their funniest, this picture cracks me up every time. The routine where Lou is trying to get to sleep is priceless. As in most of their early films, the boy/girl subplot is a bore, and there are a couple of sappy songs, but the laughs are generous. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Depart In Radiant Contentment!
Whistling In the Dark (1941) is one of my favorite films. Red Skelton is excellent in his first leading role as is the entire cast. Red plays Wally Benton, a radio detective named the Fox who writes his own crime stories. The extremely beautiful and foxy Ann Rutherford is his girlfriend Carol Lambert who appears on the radio shows with him. Eve Arden plays Wally's agent and Conrad Veidt is the leader of a cult that is in dire need of a perfect murder plot. The light-hearted thrills, laughs and fun start from there and never let you down.
Be forewarned, this film is in black and white but don't let that stop you. Two sequels followed, Whistling In Dixie (1942) and Whistling In Brooklyn(1943), to complete the "Fox Trilogy." If you view all three in order notice the interesting development of the Rags Ragland character. Even my children and grandkids love this one.
The cult leader's favorite saying is "Depart In Radiant Contentment" and after viewing this film you definitely will.

Excellent Movie!
If you're looking for a light-hearted thriller (not, that is not an oxymoron in this case), this movie is for you! Red Skelton delivers a sublime performance as "The Fox", and will leave you gasping for breath because of all the laughter the movie will bring you! A must-see for all comedy lovers and afficionados... ... Read more

Reviews (10)

FAST AND FUNNY
In GIRL CRAZY, Rooney and Garland finally grow up, despite the best intentions of a formula which saw them as kids on stage in film after film. Judy plays Ginger Gray, the daughter of a college president. The character Garland once described as "Dorothy Adorable", once given free rein in BABES ON BROADWAY (1941), BABES IN ARMS (1939) or the Andy Hardy movies, has, however, grown more complex. Ginger Gray shows the contradictory and ironic charm of the latter Garland characters, both vulnerable and quick to laugh at herself in a way that the roles as "Dorothy Adorable" hardly suggest. Berkeley films such as BABES IN ARMS & BABES ON BROADWAY had used the familiar "let's put a show on" theme as a glorious excuse for Garland, Rooney and dozens of other chorus folk to concoct variety shows. Although Norman Taurog's (he was Jackie Cooper's uncle) direction and staging of the musical numbers reflected the beginnings of a new style in film musicals, the plot of GIRL CRAZY is completely conventional. Not only are Rooney and Garland featured in virtually every scene, but they usually dominate the frame in Taurog's composition. Tommy Dorsey's orchestra provides the swingy ambience and the musical score is outstanding: "But Not for Me", "I Got Rhythm" "Embraceable You" "Fascinating Rhythm" and "Bidin' My Time" along with 7 others!

Isn't this great!!!!
This CD just came in the mail today. Just popped it in the player and I love it already! Judy's major numbers on this disc are featured on several of her Decca studio recordings, which is where I heard them first. But the original soundtrack performances, as heard here, are the best yet! This is, without a doubt, the best recording of the fabulous Gershwin score (although the 1952 Mary Martin cast album, now the only version in print, is good too). Garland and Rooney always worked so well together. The sound on the disc is wonderful - you'd never know it was made in 1943! All selections are in STEREO (except the Main Title, in monaural), thanks to the (as always) wonderful remastering and remixing job by Rhino/Turner. Unfortunately this disc is out of print, and its a shame that it is (I got my copy via Ebay). Keep an eye open for it, though. No faults with this one; it's great! As another reviewer states, these are quite possibly some of the greatest numbers ever put on film and disc!

One song in particular makes this movie special
I'm giving this film 5 stars based on one particular song in the film: "Bidin' my time". This performance by Judy just knocked my socks off when I caught it some time ago on late-night television. The rest of the film is fine too, but I'm a nut about music (all music from classical to rock) and after hearing this particular rendition I just had to own it. There's something different about how she and her group perform this song. I don't quite know how to describe it but it caught my interest immediately. It seems somehow ahead of its time. Anyway, that particular performance is just a joy to watch. I noticed that the commercial review had also picked up on this particular song.

Some of the best musical numbers ever put on film are here
I ignored this movie for years thinking it was just another over-exuberant essay in the over-abundant MGM collection of sappy adolescent musicals. I'm glad that listening to an English revival of the original musical finally motivated me to watch it, because some of the best musical numbers ever put on film are here. Busby Berkeley started as the director but was replaced for supposedly tyrannical behavior. His production numbers appear at the end and are quite amazing, choreographing "I've Got Rhythm" with guns and bullwhips. All the numbers on this movie are quite exceptional, in particular "Biding My Time" one of the Gershwin brothers' finest and most surprising tunes, but also "Treat Me Rough" and "Could You Use Me". And the arrangements are some of the best I've ever heard, anticipating the harmonies of the Hi-Los and the Four Freshmen by a decade and a half. Judy has never looked prettier nor sung as purely and Mickey pulls out all the stops without (well, almost) going over the top. He even plays a terrific piano solo, with Tommy Dorsey! I never get tired of watching this movie. It's an explosion of pure pleasure.

The fun never stops...
This is Mickey and Judy's best film together. They play off each other wonderfully and Judy's laughter is infectious. But it's the GREAT musical score that makes "Girl Crazy" a movie to go crazy about. This was their last starring feature together (she went on to bigger things in the years following) so get it, tuck it away and keep it for a rainy day when you need a reminder of how talented this screen duo was. ... Read more

Reviews (28)

I fell in love too easily with Anchors Aweigh
Anchors Aweigh is an MGM classic. When you watch it you'll never forget Gene Kelly's dance with the animated mouse, Jerry, Frank Sinatra's crooning of "I Fall in Love too Easily", Jose Itrubi's brillinat playing of the piano, and Kathryn Grayson's operatic "Jealousy". I don't think this is Kathryn Grayson's best role, but she sure does a good job. Some other songs that I haven't mentioned are "If You Knew Susie", "Waltz Serenade", "All of a Sudden My Heart Sings", and "We Hate to Leave". I thoroughly enjoyed this movie, and if you're a fan of Frank, Gene, or Kathryn, you'll love it too.

Heartwarming, Corny, but Great Musical Fun
When I took the time to actually think about the plot of Anchors Aweigh, I wondered how anyone ever took the movie seriously. Two sailors on leave hope to find love, or at least a girl, accidentally meet a small orphan being raised by his aunt, both sailors fall in love with the aunt and also act as surrogate fathers for the boy, but never fight over the aunt, and promise to arrange an audition for the aunt with Jose Iturbi, the great Hollywood conductor and arranger. One sailor finds the girl of his dreams, another falls in love with the aunt, and everyone is happy, and of course the very talented aunt is on her way to stardom. This movie should not work, but somehow it does work and works well. Why? Because the two sailors are Frank Sinatra as Clarence Doolittle and Gene Kelley as Joseph Brady and Kathryn Grayson plays the aunt. This very talented trio created magic in the musical numbers, and since Gene Kelley is involved, the dance numbers are naturally amazing.

Though the most famous highlight of the film is Gene Kelley dancing with Jerry of Tom and Jerry fame (mixing animation and live action, quite a fete in 1945), perhaps the best dance scene is when Kelley dances with a small Mexican immigrant girl. As in so many Kelley dance sequences, Kelley compliments those who dance with him and seems to never let his ego get in the way.

This movie is more than a far fetched story with great musical and dance numbers. It also says a great deal about America at the end of World War II. Victory was imminent, but the country was tired and needed hope. Movies such as Anchors Aweigh provided such hope, and for this reason alone it deserves praise. And let's face it, who can resist a corny musical with an implausible story that can capture our hearts and imaginations?

P.S. If you don't want to spend more money, avoid the bonus tracks advertising other great MGM musicals, but if you can't resist, don't say I did not warn you!

Anchors A Snore
We bought this movie because we liked Gene Kelly in "Singing in the Rain" so much. While not expecting something quite as wonderful we were indeed surprised at how truly awful it was. The characters annoyed us and the plot was not believable. For a long, long time, we kept hoping for more dancing... or singing... or something... but eventually we went to bed and haven't even finished this movie. The kid was cute, though.

One of my absolute favorite films
Just sheer joy. Gene looking very, very, VERY good, and dancing very, very, VERY well! They didn't come much better looking or more talented than Gene Kelly, especially in this film. Frank (that voice...ah, that VOICE!) skinny and sincere, playing a shy sailor without any experience with women...who said this boy wasn't an actor?!. In other words, Frank and Gene doing what they do best in brilliant Technicolor. Great music, wonderful sets, terrific comedy, and a groundbreaking dance (the first on film, I believe) between a live action and animated character (Gene and Jerry Mouse in the delightful "Worry Song"). Kathryn Grayson, a great beauty with a stunning operatic voice, perfectly complements the nautical duo. I've heard the criticism that the film runs too long...personally, I wish it had been a little longer! A great movie and a lot of fun.

THE CHARM OF THIS MUSICAL NEVER ENDS
"Anchors Aweigh" is bar none the best of the 'sailors on shore leave' musicals that seemed to flood the film market during the 1940's and early 50's. The story is pretty contrite, two sailors fall for the same girl and lie to gain her affections. That's it, that's all. But history has taught us that most musical film fare needs nothing more that this by way of plot in order to captivate its audience.
Gene Kelly and Frank Sinatra are the front liners here. This was Sinatra's first MGM film and he and Kelly are a remarkable team to behold on the screen. Sinatra's scrawniness and Kelly's male bravado bow well with one another. Add to the mix one of MGM's greatest singers, Kathryn Grayson and how could anything go wrong. It doesn't and the resulting film not only won Kelly his first Oscar nomination as best actor but took a Best Picture nomination as well.
Warner Home Video has done a pretty spiffy job on this transfer. Colors, though dated, are bold, saturated and well balanced. During the animated segments there are some instances where color balancing is inconsistent, but nothing that will terribly distract. Also, a few instances of edge enhancement crop up, but again, nothing that will ruin your enjoyment of this great musical classic. The sound, unfortunately, is a big, lousy mono but carried off with such clarity and remarkable spread that one can forgive Warner for not doing a 5.1 remix. The disc also includes a snippet from MGM: When The Lion Roars that explains how Kelly and Jerry (the mouse from Tom and Jerry fame) were able to be seen dancing together. Is it just me or is Jerry awfully big for a mouse?!?
Get the film and find out. This one's a keeper!!! ... Read more

Reviews (4)

SKELTON AND RUTHERFORD FOREVER!!!
this is one of my favorite Red Skelton movies. I've always thought that he and Ann Rutherford were such a great couple! For a while now, I've thought that "Whistling in Brooklyn" is one of their best movies together!

Rags Ragland and Jean Rogers are also hilarious. At times, I even find Ragland funnier than Skelton. But my favorite is still Ann Rutherford--I've never seen her in such a role!

This movie is funny, cute, and you're sure to have a good time!

great comedy
Can't wait for the DVD version..This is a very funny movie by a comedian that perfected comedy on the screen...If you Love "RED" or if you've never seen one of his movie you will laugh out loud while watching.....Get the whole series...BARB

This paper never had a constant reader.
Whistling In Brooklyn (1943) is Red's third outing as radio detective the Fox. This time he's mixed up with a villian named Constant Reader but still finds time to clown around with the Brooklyn Dodgers. You'll want to pay close attention to the umpire's calls when Red is at bat, especially ball 3.
Also involved is a lady reporter whose editor orders her to tag along on the honeymoon - the third attempt of Wally (Red) and Carol (Ann Rutherford) to marry in this series.
Another outstanding cast and good pacing. While the films in this series may not become some of your favorites as they have for me, I think you'll find them very entertaining. This movie shows that even hanging around an elevator shaft can be fun.

A Fun Little Movie
I caught this on the late show when I was 13 and, while not the greatest movie in the world, it has always stayed with me. The comedy works, it has a few humorous Hitchcockian moments (particulary the scene with four characters hanging over an elevator shaft), and the climax is very reminescent of "The Naked Gun" (with Leslie Neilson). In fact, it could best be described as a poor man's "North by Northwest"...and I mean that as a compliment. And I'll dig any movie that has a villain calling himself "Constant Reader". ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Poor Plot Great Music
MGM had some of the most talanted musical stars of all time. This musical proves that with out a doubt. Unfortunately is loses a lot in the plot. It is hard to tell what is going on in this movie. I don't know if it is because it is confusing or boring. The music is great and Ann Sothern's voice is beautiful as always. Lena Horne also adds much to any movie. I love Virginia O'Brien's musical numbers, particularly (Did I Get Stinking At The Club Savoy). It is also humorous the way she chases Alan Mobrey around during (Let's Be Buddies). ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Red Skelton Whistles With Hilarity!
Red Skelton and Ann Rutherford star in the second of the three "Whistling" movies. In this film Red stars once again as Wally "The Fox" Benton who is still trying to marry the love of his life, Carol Lambert, played by Ann Rutherford. When Ann receives their sorority distress call pin from a sorority sister summoning her and her fiance to help in solving a murder, wedding bells are once again put off in exchange for whistling around with another murder.

When they arrive in Georgia, they are greeted by Carol's friend's family and are shocked to see that the villain from the first film is the family cheuffer! A hilarious car ride reveals that they are twins, and he in fact is Chester and the villain is his brother Sylvester. These "twin" roles are played by Rags Ragland who teams well with Red, and almost stole the show at times, being just as hilarious as his firy co-star!

Wally is quickly involved and with hilarious results. When they find out that buried treasure may also be a part of this murder, they are determined to solve the mystery. Do they solve the murder and find buried treasure? Settle down one evening with this film with the lights turned off and armed with popcorn, and you will surely be entertained to tears of laughter! Be sure and watch the other to films in this trilogy, the first being "Whistling in the Dark" and the conclusion, "Whistling in Brooklyn". ... Read more

Reviews (1)

One of the best videos I've watched.
I believe that this video is one the tells the real story about the United States Navy in World War II. It not only tells the story but it makes you feel like you are there right next to the brave men and women of the United States Navy. It puts you in there place and it gives you the real sense of being on a naval ship during the 1940's. ... Read more