Originally a critical and box office failure, Singin’ in the Rain was the inspired creation of a twenty-eight-year-old Stanley Donen and Gene Kelly, who also choreographs, dances and stars as Don Lockwood, a famous silent movie star with humble vaudeville roots. Set during Hollywood’s transition to the talkies, Singin’ in the Rain is not only one of the most beloved musicals of all time, it is also a marvelous movie about filmmaking itself. While the switch to sound goes smoothly for Lockwood, it unleashes the nasal screech of his co-star, who requires some “quick fix” dubbing by a young ingenue who happens to be the object of Lockwood’s desire and inspiration for the title song. Essential to the magical, exhilarating mix is the comic dexterity of Donald O’Connor, who performs the musical’s only two original songs (Make them Laugh and Moses Supposes), as well as a then-unknown Cyd Charisse (with a nod to silent femme fatale Louise Brooks). A rare 35mm HFA Technicolor print will be shown of this timeless musical that understands the illusions it presents in all the dazzling colors one can imagine.

Age recommendation: all ages