That's Entertainment! III

That's Entertainment! III, directed by Bud Friedgen and Michael J. Sheridan, is a captivating exploration of the golden era of Hollywood musicals, narrated by some of the era's most celebrated stars, including Debbie Reynolds, Gene Kelly, and Ann Miller. This 1994 film was the third installment in a series of compilations from Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, continuing the legacy of its preceding films by presenting more delightful musical numbers and behind-the-scenes looks at some of the most successful films of the 20th century.

The film leverages the charisma and memories of its esteemed narrators to imbue life into the historical footage. Debbie Reynolds, Gene Kelly, and Ann Miller, among others, steer the narratives, providing personal anecdotes and background information subtly threaded through the movie. These iconic figures guide the audience on a nostalgic journey through the evolution of musical films, revealing hidden gems and unheard stories along the way.

The film also includes commentary from other Hollywood greats like Mickey Rooney, Lena Horne, Esther Williams, June Allyson, Howard Keel, Cyd Charisse, and many others, cultivating a dynamic and comprehensive view of the historic film era.

That's Entertainment! III stands out from its predecessors by not just offering a treasury of featured clips from popular movies but also showcasing scenes that were left on the cutting room floor, only to be rediscovered and appreciated in this compilation. It gives audiences the chance to watch these 'deleted scenes,' some of which feature major stars from their respective eras - a rare treat for fans of classic Hollywood.

The film engrosses its audience in the artistry and intricacy of the production horrors, highlighting how the glamour seen on screen often masks the grueling work behind the scenes. It offers a fascinating contrast between the finished product and the efforts involved to bring the performance to life, painting a realistic portrayal of Hollywood's glittering facade.

Compared to its predecessors, That's Entertainment! III leverages more complex editing techniques, seamlessly converging past and present, black-and-white and color footage, to construct a fluid and engaging narrative. The transitions between the narrated pieces and showcased clips are handled skillfully, allowing the film to maintain a steady momentum throughout its run.

The nostalgic journey through That's Entertainment! III is not merely a trip down the memory lane but an ensemble of all that made Hollywood's golden era universally admired and continues to captivate audiences decades later. For musical buffs, the film is brimming with stunning performances, captivating dance sequences, and unforgettable songs that have become an integral part of American culture.

The enthusiasm and reverence of the narrating artists for the golden age of cinema are infectious and form the emotional core of the film. As they recount their experiences and the friendships that arose from those performing years, there is a sense of longing for a bygone era, punctuated by both joy and melancholy, making it a truly bittersweet tour of Hollywood's yesteryears.

For those interested in the history of film, That's Entertainment! III is both enjoyable and informative, providing nuggets of information unlikely to be found elsewhere. It provides an excellent starting point for anyone who wishes to further explore classic musical cinema.

Weekly nurtured by the era's surviving luminaries, That's Entertainment! III is a testament to the timeless allure of Hollywood musicals and the artists who brought them to life. It allows younger audiences to witness the magic of classic Hollywood, while letting older viewers relive their cherished memories of cinema's yesteryears.

In the end, That's Entertainment! III reinforces the dazzling charm of Hollywood musicals while also revealing the nuanced, and often challenging, artistic processes that the audience do not see. It infuses the wider context with personal narratives, meticulously documented facts, and the genuine affection of the featured artists, making it a splendid tribute to an era that paved the foundations of the American film industry.