It's a Pleasure

It's a Pleasure is a captivating musical sports-drama film, released in 1945, directed by none other than the acclaimed William A. Seiter. This radiant movie star Sonja Henie, Michael O’Shea, and Marie McDonald powerfully cast in pivotal roles. Henie was well-renowned for her ice-skating prowess and is the key attraction of the film. Known for pulling large crowds to her films, she uses her grace, strength and undeniable talent to make this film a remarkable display. This classic romantic sports-drama blends Henie's ice-skating brilliance with a well-nurtured plot that simultaneously entertains and engages the audience.

Henie in "It's a Pleasure" plays the character of Chris Linden, an ingenious figure skater who is inherently good-hearted and full of spirit. Surprisingly, Chris falls head over heels with Don Martin (Michael O'Shea), an unsteady although talented ice hockey player. Their bond burgeons during a rough patch in Don's career when he gets expelled from his ice hockey team due to his aggressive behavior on the field and his immoderate drinking habit.

Don's life takes a positive spin when Chris's manager Buzz Fletcher (Bill Johnson) provides him with an ice skating role in their ongoing ice show. However, thanks to Don's unorganized lifestyle and Chris's respondent sacrifices to help him, their relationship faces severe trials and tribulations.

Performing the role of Buzz Fletcher's shifty wife, Marie McDonald is introduced as Gale Fletcher. She effortlessly escalates the dramatic element of the film by crafting complex situations, fetching greater depth to the storyline.

The movie "It's a Pleasure" holds stirring ice-skating sequences that are mesmerizing, adding one more feather in Sonja Henie's cap of performances showcasing her skilful ice-skating art. She demonstrates a masterful blend of complex ice figure moves with graceful ballet combinations that are sure to leave the audience in awe. Furthermore, the film features a scintillating musical score designed to compliment Henie's on-ice routines, which altogether lends the film an enchanting backdrop that is both melodious and visually enthralling.

Michael O'Shea as Don Martin delivers an impressive act, spotlighting a character with deep, personal issues, struggling to regain his lost dignity. The transformation he undergoes in the movie, transitioning from a deflated professional ice hockey player to an artist in an ice show, is the backbone of the plot. The chemistry between O'Shea and Henie represents a deep and moving romance filled with turbulence but rooted in affection.

The film casts Marie McDonald in an essential role that caters a contrasting touch to her usual glamorous on-screen image. She successfully brings out her character's manipulative and conniving nature, thereby adding a distinct spice to the story.

The cinematography is vivid and bright, prominent in the ice-skating scenes, which are filmed with stunning precision and creativity. Introducing the viewers to the magical world of professional ice-skating, the director employs excellent and innovative camera movements to capture the mesmerizing beauty of this sport. The vibrant costumes designed for Henie's ice-skating performances are especially noteworthy, adding a touch of glamour and brilliance to her sequences.

Director Seiter, known for his ability to balance drama and light-heartedness, has sculpted "It's a Pleasure" to convey a compelling narrative with an appropriate infusion of humor. His directorial prowess is visible throughout the film's runtime, making it an engaging journey for the viewer.

In summation, "It's a Pleasure" is a notable film from 1945 that not only showcases Sonja Henie's dazzling ice-skating capabilities but also delivers a hearty storyline. As an all-around package, this sports musical-drama evokes a range of emotions with its colorful set designs, great performances, and soulful music. It is definitely a must-watch for those who appreciate classic cinema and for the fans of Sonja Henie.