An American in Paris

(Vincente Minnelli, US 1951, 113 min., 35mm)

National Endowment for the Arts. Gerry (Gene Kelly) is an American expatriate living the life of a bohemian painter in post-WWII Paris. Struggling to find success in both art and love, his life is turned upside down when he meets and falls in love with Lise (Leslie Caron). This lavish musical—with its straightforward story, gorgeous dance sequences, and beautiful, frequently melancholic Gershwin score—won the Academy Award for Best Picture. Kelly deservedly gets praise for his skillful and acrobatic dancing, but it’s Oscar Levant, playing his acerbic buddy, who steals the film and gives it a cynical edge that continues to appeal to modern audiences.

Also showing: Sunday, August 27, 2 p.m.