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Singin' in the Rain
Stanley Donen and Gene Kelly's 1952 musical extravaganza returns to selected cinemas around the UK to coincide with a season of musicals at BFI Southbank in London. The setting is 1927 Hollywood: the era of the silent movie. Don Lockwood (Kelly) and Lina Lamont (Jean Hagen) are the most famous on-screen couple of the day whose cinematic swoonings capture the hearts and the imaginations of the world. Don has worked hard to establish his position in the industry, aided and abetted by his friend and pianist Cosmo Brown (Donald O'Connor). In fact, he is so convincing in front of the camera that Lina mistakenly believes he hides a secret passion for her, and she is constantly making romantic overtures towards him. When their latest film is selected for a remake, this time as a musical talkie, everyone is excited by the new possibilities that sound will bring to the movie-making business. Unfortunately, Lina's voice and singing just aren't up to scratch so the producers bring in another actress, aspiring starlet Kathy Selden (Debbie Reynolds), to dub her. Don is instantly smitten with the new girl, and is understandably pleased that she will be singing with him (even if it is in secret). Of course, sooner or later Lina must find out about the little deception, and that could signal the end of his thus-far glittering career. Renowned for Kelly's water-logged dance to the title tune, Singin' In The Rain features myriad toe-tapping tunes from the golden age of Hollywood musicals, including Good Morning, You Were Meant For Me, Make 'em Laugh, You Are My Lucky Star and Moses Supposes. Wellington boots and umbrellas recommended.
