Cover Girl (VHS, 1992)

What is it about Gene Kelly that can make any plot for any movie work? I've been watching "Cover Girl" since my early childhood, because I always fancied myself desperately in love with Mister Kelly. It wasn't until recently, however, that I noticed it's the presence of Gene Kelly (as Danny McGuire) that makes the movie work. I'm not just saying this as a fan. Without him, it would have been a good try at a musical, but not a whole lot more.

We've all seen the Tom and Jerry dance from "Anchors Aweigh," but in "Cover Girl" Gene Kelly actually dances with HIMSELF, and this is an effect that seems far ahead of its time. Filmmakers do stunts like this today. It was remarkable in 1944.

Of course, the lovely Rita Hayworth plays the title roll to the fullest. It wasn't her dancing, but her quiet demeanor and personal attitude that made the character Rusty seem real. I was especially convinced during her presentation of the beautiful song "Long Ago and Far Away," and during her one truly angry moment. The character seemed to come to life for her.

The wardrobe was fantastically elaborate, and each outfit sort of became a character all its own. The sets were fabulous, and secondary characters including the magnificent Phil Silvers helped to make the whole story come together around the "main event" --- Gene Kelly himself.

It's also worth mentioning that the concluding scene has always succeeded at making me cry, and undoubtedly, it always will. I don't want to give anything away for those of you who have never seen the movie, so I will just say, the ending was NOT just a stereotypical fairytale ending. It was simpler. It was better. It was downright unique.

If you haven't seen "Cover Girl," I really want to encourage you to go out and rent it. If you already love Gene Kelly, then you already understand why you should see the movie. And if you don't love Gene Kelly, then well, believe me, you will!