That's Entertainment

That's Entertainment is one of the finest examples of a cinematic tribute to the golden age of Hollywood musicals. The 1974 documentary features a compilation of the best moments from more than 100 MGM musical films from the golden era of cinema, ranging from the late 1920s to the early 1960s.

The movie is presented in the format of a grand retrospective, showcasing the transition of cinema over the years. It is not just an assortment of clips but also has a meaningful structure, interspersed with introductions and narratives by legendary Hollywood icons such as Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly, Bing Crosby, and many more. Their intermittent commentary frames the context of each clip, informing contemporary audiences about their historical and cultural significance.

Famed actors and performers such as Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, Elizabeth Taylor, Liza Minnelli, Peter Lawford, Jimmy Stewart, and Mickey Rooney play the role of hosts along with Astaire and Kelly. Each host guides viewers through a specific era or theme, providing personal and professional insights into the workings of classic Hollywood musicals. The movie lovers would appreciate the raw insights shared by these celebrities from their experiences while working on various musicals.

True to its title, That's Entertainment is an engaging, entertaining spirit-lifter, showcasing timeless music, stellar performances, grand choreography, and stunning visuals from the golden era. It effectively revives the magic of classic Hollywood musicals that were extravagant and encompassed an array of emotions such as joy, laughter, and heartbreak. From iconic solos to passionately choreographed group sequences, the songs and dances selected for this compilation illustrate the remarkable talent and creativity that went into these pioneering film projects.

Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly, two of the most influential and celebrated dancers in the history of cinema, bare their unique thoughts and perspectives as they take viewers on a nostalgic journey through Technicolor extravaganzas, lavish sets, and memorable performances by iconic stars of the time. The movie shows behind-the-scenes footage of some of the most legendary films such as Singin' in the Rain, Easter Parade, The Wizard of Oz, Swing Time, and An American in Paris. It brings out the technical mastery involved in creating the perfect scintillating sequences, amazing costumes, and evocative cinematography that made these films cult classics.

One of the most unique features of That's Entertainment is its effort to retain the original texture and visual quality of the showcased clips. The movie does not opt for digital enhancements or visual filters; instead, it allows viewers to appreciate the original look of the glorious Technicolor or crisp black-and-white footage, which adds to the charm and authenticity of the movie-watching experience.

In That's Entertainment, viewers effectively witness the evolution of the cinematic musical genre, right from the early days of the talkies to the full-blown Technicolor extravaganzas of the 1950s. The film takes a walk down memory lane, reminiscing about the golden days when musical films were the heart and soul of Hollywood cinema. It showcases how musicals were a creative outlet for exploring different themes and emotions, disguised in colorful visuals and rhythmic melodies.

The sing-along segments, featuring the lyrics on screen, invites the audience to participate, making it an interactive and engaging experience. It also reflects on the enduring appeal of these films and their ability to bring joy across generations, proving that, indeed, a good song and dance number can heal hearts and uplift spirits.

Through a kaleidoscope of iconic clips, That's Entertainment celebrates the passion, creativity, talent, and heart that made the golden age of Hollywood musicals timeless. This documentary is not just a nostalgic tribute; it is a heartfelt acknowledgement of the timeless beauty and artistic integrity of Hollywood musicals. It serves as a love letter to a forgotten era of cinema, making it a must-watch for any film enthusiast, historian, or anyone fascinated by the magic of musicals.