Wednesday, March 6, 2013

The Band Wagon (1953)

Main Characters
Tony Hunter played by Fred Astaire
Gabrielle Gerard played by Cyd Charisse
Jeffery Cordova played by Jack Buchanan
Lester Marton played by Oscar Levant

Directed by Vincente Minnelli

Run Time: 122 minutes

Reel Review Rating: 8


What is the movie about? 
This movie is about Tony Hunter, a washed-up singing and dancing star. He meets up with his friends Lily and Lester and they have a great idea for a comedy show. They ask the amazing director/actor/screenwriter/etc. Jeff Cordova to help them with the show and he gets the famous ballet actor Gabrielle Gerard to be an actor in the show. Tony Hunter doesn't like her and the feeling is mutual. Jeff turns the show into a modern "Faust". The show is a disaster and Tony and Gabrielle now love each other. The actors from the show, Tony, Gaby, Lily, and Lestor decide to actually do the comedy show. Jeff decides that he will also do it and the show is a success.

What I thought about the movie.
I thought the movie was good and really musical, for sure. It's also hilarious; very, very funny. It's like watching 2 shows in 1 movie. The movie has good dancing, a good story, and I liked that it has good actors, too.


What I learned about making films.
I learned what the word "Faust" means: where an ambitious person throws moral integrity to the wind and makes a pact with the devil to achieve power and success. I can't wait to use the term "Faustian" in Literature class one day.


Why I think other kids should see this film.
I think other kids should see this movie because it is really a great musical. It's funny and fast-moving so you won't get bored. The quick-moving storyline really keeps a kid's attention.

2 comments:

Mr. Sweeney said...

Jack,
A movie I have never seen! Thanks for sharing it here. I am going to add it to my Netflixs ASAP. I am glad you did not use Faustian last year in literature - I would have busted a gut laughing. I am looking forward to more musical reviews.
Fondly,
Mr. Sweeney

J. T. Slater aka Grandpa said...

Not only did your review contain an excellent synopsis of the film, your assessment was spot on - even for adults. I also like the use of the short segment from the film in your format, which really helps put everything into context, especially for those who have never seen the film or had forgotten it in the ensuing 50 years since its release. Keep up the great work, Jack. I am looking forward to your next review.