April In Paris: Rich,Young,and Pretty(1951)

Jim Rodgers (Wendell Corey), a Texas rancher and United Nations representative, has been invited by the state department to speak in Paris. Accompanying him will be his daughter Liz(Jane Powell) and housekeeper Glynnie(Una Merkel). Although Liz will be leaving her beau Bob behind, she couldn't be more thrilled about her Parisian getaway; her father couldn't be more hesitant!

            It just so happens that Paris is where Liz's mother,and famous French songstress, Marie Devaronne(Danielle Darrieux) lives. Jim and Marie met in 1927 when he was a young rancher and she, a showgirl. Instantly,they fell in love and were married. However, Marie couldn't handle being a rancher's wife and became homesick. Shortly after Liz was born, she departed from her family and moved to Paris. In order to protect his daughter's heart, he told her that her mother had passed away. However this trip to Paris may prove otherwise...

Meanwhile, Liz is enjoying her frolic in France! While her father is at work with Monsieur Henri Milan (Jean Murat), Liz is being escorted to the best spots in Paris by Andre Milan (Vic Damone);Monsieur Milan's handsome son! With every date, they inevitably fall head over heels in love and want to be married (so long Bob!). Of course her father Jim won't hear of it because it is all too familiar! If that's not enough, Marie has been meeting with Liz and Andre for lunch as she desperately wants to know her daughter. In attempts gain control of the situation, Jim cuts Liz off from seeing either of them. This trip almost turns to disaster but with a little help from Marie, Liz gains a mother, her father's blessing, and her true love Andre.

MGM's Rich,Young, and Pretty is a very sweet, lighthearted musical.It can drag at times, but still thoroughly engaging. Unfortunately, there are no "show-stopping" numbers but great one's nonetheless. My favorites are "How Do Ya Like Your Eggs In The Morning?" (Shown above), "I Can See You", "We Never Talk Much" and their French rendition of "Deep In The Heart Of Texas".

The cast is quite enjoyable; Una Merkel and Wendell Corey truly add the comedic touch. The ever charming Jane Powell shines while Vic Damone swoons 'em all in his first movie role. If you are a Jane Powell and/or a fan of the "Golden Age" musical, give this classic gem a gander.

Roll Film,

Neah B

Photo Credits:

www.wikipedia.com

www.movieposter.com

www.janepowell.blogspot.com