Siete novias para siete hermanos

If you like musicals don't look beyond this one. MGM goofed when it slashed the movie's budget and gave it away to Brigadoon in 1953 but it doesn't matter for the simply stunning songs and choreography shine through. As good as Brigadoon was, it is outclassed by this, for me, the greatest musical of them all.

Howard Keel stars with Jane Powell but for me I cannot look beyond the awesome dancing talent of Matt Mattox as Caleb. Check out the 'polecat scene' and bookmark it on your DVD. It doesn't get any better than this. Thank you Matt, you were great!

Terry

It could be the word defining many musicals of the same period. but, in this case, it is more than a nice film, good performances, seductive songs. first - it is...America of 1850. out of western recipe. second - it is a charming story about love. not the last - amazing choreography. it is one of films who must see. time by time. for humor, dances, fights and the simple but convincing deffinition of love. so, ...magic.

A permanent place in the history of film musicals is obviously the fate of 'Seven Brides for Seven Brothers' the minute Howard Keel begins to sing 'Bless Your Beautiful Hide'. His robust romantic presence and voice are perfectly suited to blend with Jane Powell's sweet soprano--the Nelson and Jeanette of the '50s era. Jane is as perky as can be as the girl who impulsively marries him only to find that she's expected to keep house for him and his seven handsome brothers. (Echos of 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' here and a touch of political incorrectness). But all that can be forgiven, for what follows is the most outrageously entertaining musical treat from the MGM factory--singin' and dancin' like you've never seen before! The exuberant acrobatic dancing of the brothers is a special highlight--particularly during the barnraising sequence. And their wistful rendering of the carefully staged 'Lonesome Polecat' is another high point. Powell and Keel get to warble some enchanting tunes and both are totally charming and professional in their roles. Keel probably never had a better role--except perhaps 'Showboat' or 'Annie Get Your Gun', handsome, macho and utterly believable. By all means reward yourself with this gem--either in regular format or widescreen, it's certainly one of the greatest MGM musicals of the '50s. Perhaps, as others have noted, the only drawbacks are some of the obviously painted mountain backgrounds--but this never destroys the overall charm of the film. The songs are splendid and the dances are as zestful as any you're ever likely to see.

This is most certainly a candidate for the best movie musical of all time. The story is simple enough to follow, but the musical sequences intertwine between the dramatic scenes with such fluidity that they help to further the story, rather then bog it down. The actors and dancers are all in top form, but special mention should go to Tommy Rall and Russ Tamblyn for their impressive acrobatic stunts which add an extra degree of vibrancy to the whole production. Howard Keel and Jane Powell work well together and make a realistic, and pleasant pair. Among the highlights to be seen are Keel's lively rendition of "Bless Yore Beautiful Hide", Powell's "Goin' Cotin'" sung with the men, and of course the famous barn raising dance sequence, which is truly a sight to behold; a visual feast for the eyes. Also worth noting, and often overlooked, is the "Lament" ("Lonesome Polecat") number which is done entirely in one take. It is charming, graceful, and extremely well executed.

It should also be noted that this silm was shot twice at the same time, once in CinemaScope and once "flat". The scope version is the one generally shown on TV and video. If you see this version, see it "letterboxed". However, the "flat" version is quite unique in its own right, with many of the scenes and dances reframed and in some instances, offering a better, more full view of the proceedings. Definitely a not-to-be-missed film, especially for fans of the musical genre.

After 50 years, this movie musical still warms the heart and the senses.

It has been alluded to, revived somehow, often imitated but never duplicated.

The songs, the scenery, the dances are the frosting on the cake.

Although by today's standards SB4SB is dated, it nevertheless remains an industry and studio standard.

A great way to chart the early appearances of Ruta Lee and Julie Newmar, who at the time were using their original respective surnames of Kilmonis and Newmeyer. Don't blink or you'll miss Sheila James, who later went on to appear in The Trouble With Father and, of course, Dobie Gillis. Last, but not least, there's Amber Tamblyn's father, Russ, in his famous hatchet dance (Don't try this at home).

Again, happy 50th anniversary to a cool classic.