This 1951 classic musical won six Oscars – including Best Picture, features some stunning choreography and beautiful music that means the audience can eagerly anticipate the musical coming over from Broadway to London next year.
First off the music and lyrics by the Gershwins as well as the extraordinary choreography are just two reasons to watch this musical film. These qualities alone add a certain charm to the plot.
The story follows Gene Kelly as an ex-GI who is trying to earn his reputation as painter while falling in love with a perfume shop clerk played by Leslie Caron (who made her film debut in this film). The climax of the film features one of the most famous dance sequences in film history, a 17 minute ballet featuring Kelly and Caron.
While the music and the dancing is exquisite from both of the main characters, I can’t help but feel that the chemistry between Kelly and Caron is perhaps slightly unconvincing. Kelly in particular doesn’t seem as at ease – except when he is dancing. Caron, in the meantime making her film debut has a confidence about her performance that is full of charm and ease, which is lovely to watch as the film goes on.
Goodness me though, the songs are some of the most memorable written in musical history. Listening to ‘I Got Rhythm’ and ‘S Wonderful’ will really endear you to the film like nothing else will.
Watching the film, it is easy to believe just why it will translates well for the stage with plenty to offer audiences in terms of romance, classy music and plenty of style.
While some might not like the fact the plot is so straightforward and simple, that actually works as part of its charm and the relaxed vibe of the musical. It is all about simple entertainment and whisking the audience away on a beautiful romantic journey.
An American in Paris will play at the Dominion Theatre from the 4th March 2017. To book tickets visit: Ticketmaster.co.uk, Discount Theatre.com, Last Minute.com, Theatre Tickets Direct.co.uk, Love Theatre.com, Theatre People.com and UK Tickets.co.uk.