Singin' in the Rain (1952)

(Stanley Donen, Gene Kelly, US 1952, 103 min., 35mm)

In one of the greatest Hollywood musicals ever made, Gene Kelly and Jean Hagen are silent screen stars in the late 1920s on the cusp of the sound era, but Hagen’s voice presents problems for their potential fame in the talkies. The solution: a young Debbie Reynolds (in her first major role) will act as the actress’s understudy and provide voice-over. Singin’ in the Rain spoofs the aura surrounding film personalities and has something for everyone’s taste, including delightful comedy, romance, stunning dance sequences, and memorable songs.