Summary
- Hugh Jackman’s love for the theater shines through in his praise for iconic musicals like
Singin’ in the Rain
. - He lauds Gene Kelly and
Singin’ in the Rain
as perfect, even dedicating performances to honor the film. - Singin’ in the Rain
is hailed as one of the greatest musicals ever, showcasing Kelly’s talent and timeless appeal.
As a film enthusiast with a deep appreciation for musicals and Hollywood history, I have long admired the legendary status of “Singin’ in the Rain.” Having grown up watching classic films, I can distinctly recall the first time I saw this cinematic masterpiece. The experience was nothing short of magical.
Hugh Jackman, renowned for his mesmerizing portrayal of Wolverine in the globally acclaimed X-Men franchise, has always been open about his deep-rooted affection for the stage. Prior to embodying the iconic Marvel Comics character, Jackman left a lasting impact on the Australian musical scene in the ’90s. He gained notoriety through his roles as Gaston in Beauty and the Beast, Curly McLain in Oklahoma!, and Joe Gillis in Sunset Boulevard. With his captivating screen presence and powerful singing voice, Jackman enchanted audiences.
Jackman’s exceptional portrayal of Curly in “Oklahoma!” at the West End earned him a nomination for the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical. This recognition and the international exposure he gained from the production were crucial stepping stones, as he landed the lead role in “X-Men” only two years later. Despite his successful film career with movies like “Kate & Leopold,” “Van Helsing,” “The Prestige,” and “Real Steel,” Jackman remained committed to his first passion, the theater.
Jackman shined in two notable roles: He was praised for his Golden Globe win and Academy Award nomination when he brilliantly brought Jean Valjean to life in “Les Misérables,” leaving a lasting impression. Furthermore, he captured the limelight as P.T. Barnum in “The Greatest Showman,” starring alongside Zac Efron, Zendaya, and Michelle Williams. His portrayal of Barnum on the big screen was exceptional, filled with heartfelt singing and dancing that touched fans around the world. It’s evident that Jackman has a deep connection to musicals, and one particular production holds a special place in his heart – a cinematic masterpiece in its entirety.
Jackman Praises Singin’ in the Rain
In anticipation of the upcoming premiere of their much-anticipated superhero movie “Deadpool & Wolverine,” Jackman and Reynolds were requested by Letterboxd to share their favorite films of all time. Jackman confidently named “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” “Singin’ in the Rain,” “The Deer Hunter,” and “Gallipoli” as his top picks, while Reynolds mentioned “Rebecca,” “Planes, Trains and Automobiles,” “Gaslight,” and “Grosse Point Blank.”
I’ve sung the praises of “Singin’ in the Rain” before, and I’m not shy about doing it again. When when I talked with Rotten Tomatoes about my top five films, this Gene Kelly masterpiece was a must-mention. I couldn’t imagine leaving it out. It’s simply perfect, no matter who you are. The experience of watching “Singin’ in the Rain” is nothing short of amazing.
Growing up in Barooga, a suburb in the northern part of Sydney, Australia, I can honestly call Gene Kelly a hero of mine. The first VCR machine we got as a family brought back memories, as my father purchased a copy of “Singin’ in the Rain” for me. I had never seen or heard of this film before. Intrigued, I watched it an astonishing 150 times. As if by fate, I became captivated by everything Gene Kelly had ever created. He embodied my wildest dreams and surpassed them.
Jackman spoke about how Kelly, a prominent Hollywood figure, left a profound effect on him during his early days as an aspiring entertainer. This experience significantly influenced his career goals in the entertainment industry. In a heartfelt and inspiring homage, Jackman expressed the deep connection he had with “Singin’ in the Rain” and Kelly’s extraordinary talent as an actor and dancer. His touching tribute concluded the video, leaving no doubt about the profound impact these two treasured elements had on him.
As a devoted fan, I’ve been utterly captivated by this extraordinary dancer. His athleticism, grace, and innovative choreography never fail to leave me in awe. But it’s not just his dancing skills that make him exceptional; he also sings, acts, and directs with an unparalleled creativity and ingenuity. It all seems so effortless, as if it flows naturally from within him, infused with life and joy.
Jackman Showcases His Love for the Musical
During his impressive acting career, Jackman consistently returned to musical theater and stole the spotlight with his exceptional rendition of “Singin’ in the Rain.” He delivered these captivating performances at esteemed venues such as the Hollywood Bowl in 2019, during his Broadway to Oz concert tour in 2015, at Manchester Arena, and on his first world tour The Man. The Music. The Show. Jackman beautifully embodies Kelly’s natural charm and allure throughout each thrilling performance, reaffirming to fans that he is much more than just an action-packed Marvel hero.
Jackman’s world tour drew large crowds and left audiences enchanted, with approximately 300,000 tickets sold during the European leg alone. The charismatic performer brought the iconic “Singin’ in the Rain” tune to life each night, paying homage to both Gene Kelly and Debbie Reynolds. The Los Angeles Times praised Jackman’s electrifying performance at the Hollywood Bowl, expressing awe over his enjoyment on stage and admiration for his versatile talents as an actor and vocalist. In their glowing review of the 2019 concert, they highlighted:
He performed with unwavering enthusiasm, as if trying to make up for an audience debt he knew he could never repay. He played the fool with a twinkle in his eye, entertaining himself and everyone who appreciated his playful grin. And he networked with the charisma of a popular politician, basking in the adoration of his admirers.
Just What Makes Singin’ in the Rain So Exceptional?
Often considered not just the best musical ever made but also one of the greatest films in cinematic history, “Singin’ in the Rain” initially underperformed at the box office when it was released on April 11, 1952. It generated $3.2 million during its first run and brought a profit of $600,000 to the studio. Yet, the film’s enduring legacy and groundbreaking influence continued to flourish in the decades following its premiere. The acting talents of Kelly, Debbie Reynolds, Donald O’Connor, and Jean Hagen have been praised as some of the most brilliant and unforgettable performances in cinema.
In Singin’ in the Rain, viewers are treated to a visual and auditory feast with its spectacular musical numbers and catchy tunes. Kelly’s rendition of the title song not only showcased his captivating on-screen charm and exceptional vocal skills but also had him gracefully dancing through puddles during a rainstorm. This iconic performance ranked third among the greatest film songs by the American Film Institute, with other memorable tracks including “Make ‘Em Laugh,” “You Were Meant For Me,” and “All I Do Is Dream of You.”
Singin’ in the Rain not only boosted Kelly’s reputation as a leading Hollywood actor, but it also marked the beginning of Debbie Reynolds’ successful career and brought Donald O’Connor a Golden Globe award. This remarkable musical is now part of an exclusive group with a flawless 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes.
Pauline Kael, a long-term film critic for The New Yorker, expressed her appreciation for “Singin’ in the Rain” as follows: This lively and biting critique of Hollywood in the late twenties is arguably the most enjoyable musical ever made – possibly the finest Hollywood musical production of all time. Its engaging plot, captivating performances, and classic soundtrack are just a few factors that keep audiences engaged even after 70 years. To watch “Singin’ in the Rain,” stream it on Max.
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2024-07-26 00:02