Anything Goes

Anything Goes is a delightful American musical-comedy film released in 1936, marked by its enchanting tunes, laughter, romance, and the performance by its renowned cast. It stars Bing Crosby, Ethel Merman, Charles Ruggles, and Ida Lupino in a setting that twinkles with Broadway razzmatazz and Hollywood glamour.

Brought to life under the masterful direction of Lewis Milestone, the film is an adaptation of the successful Broadway musical written by Cole Porter. Renowned writer Guy Bolton along with P.G. Wodehouse have sewn the intricate plot adjustments which ensured the transition from stage to screen, while Porter's parade of hit songs are woven seamlessly into the narrative.

The leading man, Bing Crosby, plays Billy Crocker with his signature charm, imbuing the character with both charisma and a tuneful voice that highlight the depth of his talent. Billy Crocker is a successful stockbroker who is in love with a debutante, Hope Harcourt (played by Ida Lupino), who is unfortunately engaged to a wealthy Englishman, Sir Evelyn Oakleigh, played by the versatile Charles Ruggles. Their romance, complications, and how they overcome them forms the crux of this amusing lady-or-the-tiger situation.

Adding the necessary tint of liveliness to the film, we have Ethel Merman who reprises her Broadway role as Reno Sweeney. She is a notable nightclub singer who is also friends with Crocker. Her spirited character and dazzling vocals add a certain tingle and humor, which uplift the entertainment value of the film.

The narrative predominantly unfolds on an ocean liner, where alongside the main plot, a slew of subplots unfurl, involving charming rogues, mistaken identities, and whimsical deceits. This layered plot setting not only ensures the comedic value remains intact, but gives depth to the characters' personalities, underlining their motivations and showcasing their transformations as the plot moves forward.

The allure of the film not only lies in its humor and narrative twists but also in the terrific musical numbers that have become immortalized in cinema history such as "I Get a Kick Out of You" and "You're the Top". Crosby and Merman's vocal prowess and their ability to own these musical sequences have contributed largely to their timeless appeal. Whether it's Crosby's smooth singing style or Merman's inimitable robust belting, their performances remain unforgettable.

The feature's cinematography, although a production of the 1930s, is strikingly impressive. The precision with which every frame is shot, the notable depiction of the art deco stage, and the lavish, intricate costumes add a visual appeal that makes the film positively riveting.

Another appealing aspect of Anything Goes is the crowd-pleasing humor. Ruggles's comedic brilliance as Sir Evelyn Oakleigh infuses the story with multitalented humor, with a performance that's a unique blend of goofiness and affable manners. The same can be seen with Arthur Treacher's portrayal of the butler, whose dry wit adds another layer of humor to the movie.

Anything Goes is a perfect representation of a classic musical comedy film of the '30s, where romance blossoms in an environment packed with music and laughter. Despite being set in a sprawling ocean liner and featuring a multifaceted ensemble cast, the film never loses its focus on the central love story, keeping the audience invested in the characters right until the end. The film’s ability to balance slapstick, romance, and unmissable tunes is testament to a timeless Hollywood classic.

In essence, Anything Goes is a light-hearted gem of a film that guarantees to make you laugh, sing-along and fall in love with its enchanting cast. It's a glorious mix of Hollywood glamour and Broadway panache, offering endearing performances, heartwarming romance, sprightly humor, and mesmerizing musical experiences. This classic Hollywood musical comedy film still captivates modern audiences with its timeless storyline, well-loved music, and memorable performances.