Other than maybe the "Simpsons Movie," I have never seen brighter colors on film than I did in "The Band Wagon." And there's probably a darn good reason for it. The director was Vincente Minnelli, who once was the stage designer for Radio City Music Hall. Every shot in "The Band Wagon" offers you Godiva-like eye candy. There is not one wasted inch of the screen in any one moment.
Early on in the film, there is a scene set on 42nd Street of New York, circa 1953. It reminds me of what an entertainment hub New York City used to be. If you walk down into Times Square, you get the same bright colors assailing your vision. In "The Band Wagon," it involves you. Times Square today repels you.
The plot of "The Band Wagon" is probably no different than other MGM musicals. A bunch of people get together to put on a show. But, instead of the barn behind Mickey and Judy's house, these folks are actual professionals that show you the inner workings of a Broadway musical. You have Oscar Levant and Nanette Fabray (why did she not work more in film musicals?) parody the songwriting team of Betty Comden and Adolph Green (the actual writers of the movie), while Fred Astaire and Cyd Charisse are the epitome of class as the two stars of the musical, both on stage and on the screen. Don't look too closely at the seams of the plot, as they were probably put together by a bunch of Filipino kids who used to make sweaters for Kathie Lee Gifford. Just sit back and enjoy the story. And, more importantly, the musical numbers that connect the oddball points of the plot.
And these are musical moments that are legendary in film history. Of course, "The Band Wagon" features the often-seen "That's Entertainment" number that probably showed up in every single film clip show ever made. But, when you actually see it in the true context of this story, you understand the irony and subtext that was originally built into the song. Also, revel in the "Triplets" number, which is as snarky as it is melodious.
Then, watch Fred and Cyd in the "Dancing in the Dark" rendition set in a backlot mock-up of Central Park. Their feet almost never touch the ground. While the music is magnificent, watch it below with the sound turned off. It is almost as magical in sheer silence.
"The Band Wagon" is one of those movies you absolutely have to see on a big screen. The largest canvas you can find. You might even have to put on your sunglasses.
1 comment:
The Band Wagon may be MGM's most underrated musical. It's always eclipsed by Singin' In The Rain, yet it's just as brilliant and probably more innovative.
The shoeshine number is one of the best in Fred's distinguished repertoire. He's so breezy yet the dancing could only be the work of an endlessly rehearsed perfectionist.
See this movie if you have the slightest interest in Hollywood's best work.
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