Show Boat (1951)

The show that first defined the Broadway musical has never come to the screen intact, despite three tries. But take this splashy 1951 MGM extravaganza on its own terms, and it boggles the eyes. Not to mention the ears: The Kern-Hammerstein score includes some staples of the American songbook, such as "Make Believe," "After the Ball," and "Can't Help Lovin' That Man." Perhaps a riverboat gambler is almost too-easy casting for Howard Keel, and Kathryn Grayson is overly twittery, which may be why the film's middle sags when they take center stage. But any time the uncannily beautiful Ava Gardner smolders, a lush tragic undertone takes over (even if the most interesting parts of her story seem to take place offscreen). The physical production is extraordinary: the busy riverside setting, the outrageous color design, and best of all an "Old Man River" (sung by William Warfield) staged in the mists of morning. -- Robert Horton Amazon.com

Show Boat

I bought the Show Boat DVD as a gift for my parents. The plastic case for the DVD was damaged/broken at the top of the case and the plastic wrap was partially torn. The damage didn't appear to occur during shipment as the cardboard shipping box was completely intact and showed no outer damage. So, the item was apparently shipped already containing the damage. Not a big deal as long as the DVD is ok, but since I was buying it for a gift, I wasn't very happy. August 16, 2008

Showboat fan

Showboat is a classic. Howard Keel and Kathryn Grayson are at the top of their form. The Champions dance better than any other dance duo of their time.

The opening scenes with the happy slaves in the cotton fields and the garish colors of the entertainers deserves being skipped with a click of the scene selection button on the remote control. But after that, the movie is sheer joy.


July 28, 2008

GLORIAT

JUST A WONDERFUL MUSICAL. BRINGS BACK SO MANY MEMORIES.
JUST THRILLED TO HAVE THIS TO VIEW WHENEVER I FEEL LIKE IT.
February 10, 2008

seven brides for seven brothers

I received the video in a timely fashion, that I appreciate.....this is one of my
all time favorite movies. November 27, 2007

Finest movie version of this musical

Show Boat is considered the first "modern" musical. And although it has some pacing issues and the lack of any big chorus numbers it is still a fine musical.

This version of the musical is excellent. The performances are well done, the vocals are excellent. Although Howard Keel's performance is a little over the top and he smiles like a mad scientist, it still works for the show. October 31, 2007

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