Singin' in the Rain (1952)

"How does everyone know the words already?!?" My sister would shout as my brothers and I would sit in our blanket fort and watch "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang." Being a snot nosed 20 year old I didn't have an answer for her. Now that I'm in college I have learned many useless facts:
1) The square-root of 4
2) Why salt melts ice
3) Why characters in musicals suddenly break out in song

You want to know why don't you? Well 9 times out of 10 characters break into song to tell us what they are thinking. That is why everyone knows all the words. They aren't really singing...or are they? Great now I've confused myself. All of this is just a lead in to the next movie on the list: Singin' in the Rain.

The plot summary, according to Netflix.com, is as follows, "When Hollywood attempts the transition from silent films to talkies, a matinee idol (Kelly) hopes to make the cut. But he's hampered by a silent-movie queen (Jean Hagen) with a voice like fingernails on a blackboard." Sounds fun doesn't it? Believe me it is. Gene Kelly astounds the audience with his fancy footwork and a voice as smooth as Strawberry Nestle Quick. Debbie Reynolds, Kelly's leading lady, is quite a looker herself. This movie combines humor, singing, dancing, and the occasional tongue twister to thrill viewers of all ages. Interesting tidbit: Gene Kelly performed the title scene of the movie in one take, with a 103 degree fever. Now that's talent baby.

I don't particularly care for musicals myself, but as far as musicals go this one is pretty good. If you haven't seen it yet then what are you waiting for?

The bottom line:
Rating: 4.4 (If you like musicals then 4.7)
Would I own it? This film is on my list to own...not for me, for my kids...I told you I don't like musicals...ok I like musicals a little...don't judge me.
Would I recommend it? Of course.