JMKG13

Now this movie is what I label as a classic.. classic example of wasted time. This is one of those films that people like to read way too much into to find a deeper, darker meaning, when it is actually what it is on the surface. Nothing. Well, two things- the same things the movies have been spewing forth since the silents- Hollywood is corrupted and life plays tricks on you. Big deal. I can't blame ABC for not wanting this on their TV line up (it was originally planned as a TV series). In my opinion, David Lynch added some minor porn sequences, which guaranteed it as a hit. The only shining moment in the whole thing was Ann Miller yelling, "If that damn dog c***s in this courtyard one more time..." Sure, this film makes you want to analyze it, but there's nothing more than what I said before. It's perfectly suited for those pseudo-intellectuals who like to think that they can unlock the mysteries of life in a 2 hour long film. My advice- go rent another Ann Miller movie, Kiss Me Kate, and see what real talent, direction, and cinematography is.

Wonderful... that's a one word description, but completely true.

But follow these directions if you tend to be cynical-- Now, when watching, you must first understand that this film was originally shot in 3-D, making an excuse for all those who find Kathryn Grayson and Ann Miller throwing things a bit odd. Secondly, you need good sense. Sure MGM changed lines to censor it, but what other film from 1953 got away with flashing the word "b**tard" quite a few times? Thirdly- In reference to censorship, that's part of what makes classic films so endearing. When you look into Lili's (Kathryn Grayson's) eyes, you know she's still in love with Fred (Howard Keel). She doesn't have to sing a song filled with sexual innuendos for people to understand. Sure, Cole Porter may have written the original lines as slightly suggestive, but don't watch this movie and expect it to magically be time warped to 2002 and have all of those lines restored. Put it in context with the times. This is more of a reactionary statement than a review, but take what you will from it...

Now, you may say to yourself "Greer Garson **gasp** comedy?!" But this is actually a lovely movie about an actress who is attending her daughter's wedding. She hasn't seen her daughter in many years, since her husband, after "one year and two months (of marriage)... said 'Julia, I don't love you anymore. I think it's better if we separate.'" Julia was only invited by "accident", but one certain daughter insists that she stay, contrary to her grandmother's opinion. The film is very fun, if you don't have one of those minds that have type casted Greer Garson, and can't accept that she has a wider range than "Mrs. Miniver" type roles. She proves very adept at comedy, and also look for what seem to be "inside jokes" in some scenes.