Summer Stock, 1950
Jane (Judy Garland) is struggling to keep her family farm afloat after a few poor seasons. With the farm on the edge of financial ruin, her flighty sister, Abigail (Gloria DeHaven) shows up with an entire theatrical troupe in tow. The actors are also in a precarious financial position, and are counting on a big show to take place in Jane's barn. While Jane initially clashes with the leader of the troupe, Joe (Gene Kelly), they soon develop something of an affinity for each other.
On my little run of Garland films, I've at times complained about movies where there is a distinct split between the song-and-dance stuff and the narrative around those elements. Here there is actually a pretty big distinct split, but it comes in such an abrupt way that it almost feels like two different films. Though this might sound like a critique, I didn't mind it that much.
To sound like a broken record, Garland is really great! I know that this film was made at a time in her life that was really fraught, but it doesn't show in her performance. Kelly is also really good here, and he and Garland have a great chemistry together. There's just that vibe of mutual respect that adds a little jolt to their collaboration.
In terms of the story, I thought that it was really enjoyable. Both lead characters are very sympathetic and I really liked how they mirrored the conflict facing both of them. Each has taken responsibility for something really big, and with no choice but to push forward. I loved that several times through the movie you saw them soften as they realized the weight on the other person. A lot of romantic comedies go to the well of two people who don't like each other slowly coming to crush on each other. But sometimes this leads to too many sequences of them harping on each other or being mean to one another. Instead there is a gentleness here--two nice people finding their way to each other in trying circumstances.
What's weird about the film is the last act. I know that this is partly related to the issues during filming, but the last act gets very choppy. Not bad, just sort of strange in the pacing of it and the proportion of time spent on numbers. The performance itself is really cool (including Garland's famous "Get Happy" number), but there's a distinct feeling of the rest of the film being pushed firmly to the side. Loose ends (like Jane's clingy fiance who doesn't approve of her participation in the show, or Abigail running away with one of the performers) are wrapped up in a really abrupt way.
A charming film, if a bit odd in how it all wraps up.