Singin' In The Rain (1952) ****1/2

As singular and wonderful as its reputation, Singin' In The Rain (1952) is undoubtedly one of the most impressive musicals ever made. The trio of stars are all sublime. Gene Kelly deserves massive amounts of credit for starring, co-directing (along with Stanley Donen), and of course for his breathtaking dancing. Debbie Reynolds is a delight with her "golly gee" plus a bit 'o sass performance. But Donald O'Connor has always been the unsung hero of the film for me. More than a mere comic foil, his physicality and line delivery are exceptional. Expansive stages, beautiful choreography, colorful costumes, and of course memorable songs—Singin' In The Rain offers all this plus laughs, joy, and tears.