On The Town (1949)

On their first trip to the Big Apple, three sailors (Gene Kelly, Frank Sinatra, Jules Munshin) are on a 24 hour shore leave in New York where they fall in love with three girls (Betty Garrett, Ann Miller, Vera Ellen). Based on the 1944 hit Broadway musical and directed by Gene Kelly (who I assume was responsible for the uncredited choreography) and Stanley Donen. Not really as innovative (except for its on location shooting) as its prominent reputation would suggest but it sure sparkles. The word exuberant comes to mind. Inexplicably, just about all the Leonard Bernstein and Betty Comden and Adolph Green songs from the show were junked and replaced by Roger Edens' music with Comden and Green again doing the lyrics.  The new songs aren't a bad lot (Prehistoric Man is a delightful musical highpoint) but I Can Cook Too is sorely missed. As much as I love this movie, it would be nice if a film more faithful to the original musical could be made. With Alice Pearce (repeating her stage role), Florence Bates and Carol Haney.