This is an excellent musical that is so close to being up there with Singin’ in the Rain, but is held back by the script at times. Nevertheless, it's still a classic worth watching again and again and it achieves what a true MGM Musical is meant to do, which is to provide an escape with catchy songs, excellent choreography, and charming acting, so it does its job and then some.

I saw La La Land recently, and wasn't very impressed by it. Decided to go and revisit one of the classic musicals from Hollywood's Golden Era with two of my favourite stars, Judy Garland and Fred Astaire. Now this kids is how it's done.

Unlike La La Land, I actually can remember the songs from this movie and I know for the next few days I’ll have “Happy Easter”, “Its Only Happens When I Dance with You”, and “A Couple of Swells” in my head. I love how Ann, Fred, and Judy all get their chance to shine in their solo numbers and they absolutely nail it.

Wonderful supporting cast, especially Ann Miller, who delivers a stunning solo performance. I was completely enchanted by her dancing abilities, and was in awe at the end. I know she was kinda meant to be the villain, but she was so charming and fun to watch, I found her very likeable. Peter Lawford does a decent job, but he doesn’t really do much after his number with Judy. He just kind of pops in and out.

I absolutely loved the Judy/Fred collaboration, and felt they had quite the strong chemistry. I found it believable and quite frankly, I really wish Judy was in a better state of mind and in better health to do more films with Fred following this (Royal Wedding and The Barkleys of Broadway were to be Judy/Fred films, but Judy ended up being replaced with Ginger Rogers & Jane Powell). At least we got this one wonderful film.