Brigadoon

Most people think that the most romantic movie ever made is Titanic. They are wrong. Personally I never understood the romance of Titanic. Jack dies in the end and Rose pushes his body off the raft! So romantic. Anyway, please forgive that rabbit chase. Despite popular opinion, I believe Brigadoon, starring Van Johnson, Gene Kelly and Cyd Charisse, is in fact the most romantic film ever made. I am generally not the most romantic person in the world. I may enjoy movies of the "romance" genre, but I personally do not consider them romantic. Brigadoon, however, surpasses every film of its genre. It boasts some of the greatest talent Hollywood has ever seen, the music is unparalleled, and the story simply could not be better. 

The story is that of two American hunters lost in the Scottish moors. They come upon a tiny village called Brigadoon. They go into the village for provisions and are warmly invited to the wedding taking place later that day. Throughout the course of the film, the two hunters find out the mysterious secret of Brigadoon's past. The reality of this secret is especially difficult for one hunter since he has fallen in love with a local lass. This is one of the most beautiful films to date. The setting is gorgeous and very well done. The score is among my favorites and possesses a wonderfully Scottish flare. 

Brigadoon reunites two of Hollywood's best dancers. Gene Kelly and Cyd Charrise. The two had done a number together two years earlier in Singin' in the Rain, another of the greatest musicals ever made. I always love watching Cyd Charrise dance. Her grace simply astounds me. She was a remarkable ballerina and her talent has yet to be matched. Gene Kelly was also a master of dance, though perhaps a different sort. I have never seen more energy yet perfect precision in a dance. In my opinion Gene Kelly surpasses them all, even, dare I say, Fred Astaire. I could write an entire blog on the difference between the two, however I will keep that for another day. 

Brigadoon sits in the highly prized classic film section on my movie shelf. Though I will say it collects no dust. I take it out and watch it regularly even if only to listen while I work on something else. Whether you watch or listen Brigadoon is a masterpiece.

So grab some popcorn and a bag of m&ms and enjoy your stay in Brigadoon.

Fondly,

J.H.