Singin’ in the Rain is a 1952 movie musical comedy that society widely considers to be a classic because of its performances from the lead actors as well as its fun and upbeat soundtrack. The film was also shot in three-strip vibrant Technicolor, setting it apart from other films released during and around the same time period.

Stanley Donen and Gene Kelly, who also starred in the film, both directed Singin’ in the Rain. Aside from Gene Kelly, who played the role of Don Lockwood, the film also stars Debbie Reynolds (Kathy Selden) and Donald O’Connor (Cosmo Brown). Other actors in the film include Jean Hagen (Lina Lamont), Millard Mitchell (R.F. Simpson), Rita Moreno (Zelda Zanders), and Douglas Fowley (Roscoe Dexter).

The movie musical takes place in 1920’s Hollywood and follows the transition from silent films to talkies, or films where you can hear the actors speak. The film follows silent film star Don Lockwood navigating life with his best friend Cosmo Brown as they make their way into talkies. Don stars alongside the self-centered and untalented silent film star Lina Lamont. Don meets stage actress and singer Kathy Selden, and they fall in love with each other, only after she gets over her hatred towards both Don and movie actors in general.

I had been wanting to watch this movie for the longest time, and I finally found time to watch it. Even though this was my first time watching the film, it gave me a strong sense of nostalgia. But that could also be in part to my love of movies in general.

I thought the casting was perfect. The lead actors in particular, Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds, and Donald O’Connor, made a wonderful trio. The actors were able to feed off of the others’ energy and commitment to their characters in a way that elevated each and every scene in the film. I loved all of the characters, but Cosmo was definitely my favorite. O’Connor portrayed the role with a certain level of humor that really brought his character to life and made Cosmo a standout character for both me and others.

Of course, I can’t talk about Singin’ in the Rain without mentioning the wonderful soundtrack and singing abilities of the whole cast. As someone who enjoys musical theatre, including movie musicals, I will be the first to admit that movie musicals can either be hit or miss sometimes. Sometimes, like in the case of Singin’ in the Rain, the movie is vibrant and full of talent, while other times… not so much. 

However, the music in this film elevated the movie as a whole. There were so many fun and upbeat musical numbers throughout the film, paired with stunning choreography and visuals to accompany the song. Popular songs from the film include the opening number “Singin’ in the Rain,” the iconic trio’s “Good Morning,” and Cosmo’s comedic solo “Make ’em Laugh.”

I loved everything about this movie, from the music and the visuals to the acting. I will absolutely be watching this again in the future and will continue to recommend it to friends and family. I am not sure what took me so long to watch this film, but I am so glad that I finally did.