As the world’s most avid movie musicals fan, I would like to share my five favorite musicals with ReelTalk readers. My list spans almost 70 years and three of the films are MGM releases, which isn’t surprising since that’s the studio known for making the best musical movies

SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN (1952). I’ve watched this glorious musical over and over again, and each time it’s as fresh and lively as the first day it sang and danced its way across the big screen and into my heart.  I’ve never been able to spot one dull minute in the entire film. Based on the crisis Hollywood faced back in the 1920s when "talkies" came on the scene, the clever story by Adolph Green and Betty Comden zips along from beginning to end -- with joyful musical numbers enhancing the plots. Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds, Donald O’Connor and Jean Hagen are perfectly cast. They all deliver unforgettable performances. What’s not to like?  

EASTER PARADE (1948). This lively musical starring Judy Garland and Fred Astaire is sheer entertainment from beginning to end. Humor, star power, fabulous music, incredible dance routines, and a clever show-biz plot combine to make this offering something special for fans of movie musicals.  Garland and Astaire worked wonders together as co-stars here. Garland’s comedy talent shines in several amusing scenes while Astaire’s more sophisticated performance makes a good contrast. Fortunately, the wonderful supporting cast members, including gorgeous Ann Miller and handsome Peter Lawford are at their best.

MOULIN ROUGE! (2001).. Instead of presenting the usual joyful story in most musicals, filmmaker Baz Luhrmann  successfully combines romance, comedy, and a La Boheme-like tragedy as he showcases two doomed lovers who meet at the Moulin Rouge, a decadent Paris night club made famous by painter Toulouse Lautrec during the late 1800s. Ewan McGregor and Nicole Kidman give the best performances of their careers as this ill-fated romantic duo. Although neither McGregor nor Kidman are professional singers, their voices sound great. Both stars put genuine emotion into the lyrics of each tune. In one terrific scene, they seemed to be having as much fun singing a medley as I had listening and watching them. Sheer cinematic artistry comes through loud and clear in Moulin Rouge! It’s an outrageously creative film.  

IN THE GOOD OLD SUMMERTIME (1949). In this colorful period musical, “irresistible” describes Judy Garland’s performance. She plays a spunky woman trying to make good in a new job while carrying on a “secret friend” pen pal relationship with an anonymous co-worker, portrayed by Van Johnson who does his best ever acting as Judy’s co-star.  The warmth of all the characters in this fun romantic comedy never ceases to surround me. And, of course, there’s Judy belting out “I Don’t Care!” which is one of the most exuberant numbers of her magnificent career.  

LA LA LAND (2016). A modern love story filmed in a style reminiscent of glorious classic musicals, this contemporary musical emerges as a bittersweet treat for the eyes, the ears and the heart. It takes place in Los Angeles, the city of dreams and heartbreak, where a jazz pianist (Ryan Gosling) and wannabe actress (Emma Stone) fall in love and hope to make their dreams come true. Gosling and Stone look great together, and their romantic chemistry sparkles on screen. Plus, the musical numbers are most impressive. Highlights for me include: Gosling and Stone’s magical waltz among the stars; the exuberant L.A. traffic jam routine; Stone’s emotional audition song; and the hauntingly beautiful “City of Stars” theme. 

(Additional favorites include HAIRSPRAY, BANDWAGON, CABIN IN THE SKY, HIGH STRUNG FREE DANCE, DREAMGIRLS , THE PROM, AMERICAN IN PARIS, A STAR IS BORN, MAMMA MIA! and many more.)