Seven Brides for Seven Brothers is possibly my most watched film of all-time. Donen's best known film, Singin' In the Rain, is regarded in most circles as the greatest musical of all-time, and I wouldn't concur, but it is this Donen musical that I enjoy most. Featuring my favourite musical score of all-time, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers is one of the most rewatchable and entertaining films I have ever seen.
Adam Pontipee (Howard Keel), a backwoodsman living with his 6 other brothers, comes into town one day to look for a wife. A short while later, he finds the perfect woman, Milly (Jane Powell), chopping wood outside the restaurant where she worked. A short while after that, they were married. After he takes her back to his place, she is shocked to find out that they have to share their space with 6 other dirty, ill-mannered men.
At first, life is a challenge, but Milly quickly establishes a system in the house and forces the men to adapt. As the uncouth brothers become civilised and respectful, they too begin to feel the yearning for a life partner. Under the influence of eldest brother Adam, they come up with a plan to kidnap the women they want - Sabine style!
Donen's superb direction is obvious here. Arguably the greatest movie musical director of all-time, he is at the top of his game here. The magic that is established from early on, is not let up until the final credits roll.
I literally love all of the songs in this movie. It's hard to pick a favourite with a score this wonderful. If I were to pick a few favourites, I'd have to say "Sobbin' Women", "When You're in Love", "June Bride" & "Spring, Spring, Spring" are definitely up there. The "Lonesome Polecat" sequence is also a scene that showcases Donen's trademark choreography.
The acting here is impressive all around, but the film belongs to Keel. He gives, arguably, the greatest performance in a musical ever. He is a delight to watch, and his screen presence can not be denied. Jane Powell and Russ Tamblyn also provide memorable characters.
Seven Brides for Seven Brothers combines a fantastic story with my favourite musical score of all time, to give a musical that's fun and engaging. Lovely direction, credible performances and some interesting choreography, complement this score and makes this a joy to watch. This underrated masterpiece has stood the test of time and remains as enjoyable today as I imagine it was over 50 years ago.
© 2007 Kim Bartlett
Adam Pontipee (Howard Keel), a backwoodsman living with his 6 other brothers, comes into town one day to look for a wife. A short while later, he finds the perfect woman, Milly (Jane Powell), chopping wood outside the restaurant where she worked. A short while after that, they were married. After he takes her back to his place, she is shocked to find out that they have to share their space with 6 other dirty, ill-mannered men.
At first, life is a challenge, but Milly quickly establishes a system in the house and forces the men to adapt. As the uncouth brothers become civilised and respectful, they too begin to feel the yearning for a life partner. Under the influence of eldest brother Adam, they come up with a plan to kidnap the women they want - Sabine style!
Donen's superb direction is obvious here. Arguably the greatest movie musical director of all-time, he is at the top of his game here. The magic that is established from early on, is not let up until the final credits roll.
I literally love all of the songs in this movie. It's hard to pick a favourite with a score this wonderful. If I were to pick a few favourites, I'd have to say "Sobbin' Women", "When You're in Love", "June Bride" & "Spring, Spring, Spring" are definitely up there. The "Lonesome Polecat" sequence is also a scene that showcases Donen's trademark choreography.
The acting here is impressive all around, but the film belongs to Keel. He gives, arguably, the greatest performance in a musical ever. He is a delight to watch, and his screen presence can not be denied. Jane Powell and Russ Tamblyn also provide memorable characters.
Seven Brides for Seven Brothers combines a fantastic story with my favourite musical score of all time, to give a musical that's fun and engaging. Lovely direction, credible performances and some interesting choreography, complement this score and makes this a joy to watch. This underrated masterpiece has stood the test of time and remains as enjoyable today as I imagine it was over 50 years ago.
© 2007 Kim Bartlett
Best. Fake backgrounds. Ever.
ReplyDeleteA great page you & nicley designed,i like howard keel,my favourite film with him in it has got to be calamity jane with the great icon Doris day,great work your doing keep it up.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the compliments, I really appreciate it!
ReplyDelete