WHITE CHRISTMAS (1954)

Film of the Day #238 - 25 Days of Christmas Movies #17

WHITE CHRISTMAS
1954 • Michael Curtiz

Cast: Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, Vera Ellen, Dean Jagger, Mary Wickes, Johnny Grant, John Brascia, Anne Whitfield, George Chakiris
Screenplay: Norman Krasna, Norman Panama, Melvin Frank
Cinematography: Loyal Griggs
Music: Irving Berlin, Gus Levene, Joseph J. Lilley, Van Cleave
Producer: Robert Emmett Dolan

Paramount Pictures

Oh, Vermont should be beautiful this time of year, with all that snow.

12 years after Holiday Inn became a huge hit in theatres, Bing Crosby and Irving Berlin teamed up again and made another Christmastime musical. This time around Danny Kaye replaces Fred Astaire as the dance man. Crosby and Kaye play two old army buddies that team up as a song and dance duo turned Broadway producers after the war. They are so overworked that Phil (Kaye) is getting sick and tired of constantly being around Bob (Crosby.) He never misses an opportunity to play matchmaker with any pretty girl who walks into Bob's life just so that he can get some time away from his partner. Enter the Betty & Judy Haynes, a sister act hoping that Bob and Phil will give them a shot in one of their shows. After getting the girls out of a jam, the four entertainers head to Vermont for the holidays where Bob and Phil realize that their old army general is running the ski lodge they're staying at. Seeing the sad state of affairs the lodge is in, Bob, Phil, Betty, and Judy start planning a big Christmas spectacle to hopefully attract visitors. The big closing number? You guessed it.

Filmed in the breathtaking Vistavision format, White Christmas is an undeniable visual feast, and one of the most striking aspects that immediately captures the viewer's attention is the vibrant spectrum of colors that practically leaps off the screen. The utilization of Vistavision offers a widescreen canvas that allows the colors to breathe and pop with brilliance. The color red emerges as a dynamic force, commanding attention and imbuing scenes with warmth. From the crimson glow of holiday decorations to the rich red costumes adorning the characters in the spectacular finale, Michael Curtiz and cinematographer Loyal Griggs strategically weave this vibrant color into its tapestry. It symbolizes not only the festive spirit of Christmas but also serves as a visual cue for passion, love, and the camaraderie that defines the heart of the story. It punctuates moments of joy, amplifies the romantic undertones, and infuses the screen with an energy that resonates with the celebratory atmosphere of the holiday season. In this VistaVision celebration of Christmas, red isn't just a color, it's a presence that contributes to the film's charm.

Fred Astaire, interestingly, was the original choice to play Phil Davis, before Danny Kaye was cast. Kaye, though perhaps not cloaked in the same legendary aura as Fred Astaire, undeniably proved to be a delightful casting in this film. Kaye's contribution to the film, particularly in his dance numbers alongside the effervescent Vera-Ellen, light up the screen. In a film that sparkles with holiday magic, Kaye brought his brand of charisma and comedic brilliance to the screen. His dance sequences with Vera-Ellen are not just mere execution of choreography; they are a vibrant symphony of joy. While Fred Astaire may have been the epitome of dance sophistication, Kaye carved out his own niche, infusing the film with a sense of playfulness and whimsy. His chemistry with Vera-Ellen was electric, especially during their dance “The Best Things Happen While You’re Dancing,” creating a dynamic duo that not only complemented each other's steps but also radiated an undeniable sense of camaraderie. Kaye's ability to seamlessly blend humor with dance adds extra charm to White Christmas.

Rosemary Clooney emerges as more than just Bing Crosby's love interest; she becomes a captivating musical force whose magnificent voice leaves an indelible impression on the hearts of the audience. As the leading lady opposite Bing Crosby, Clooney brings a magnetic presence to the screen. However, it is through her entrancing voice that Clooney truly distinguishes herself, leaving an enduring mark on the film's soundscape. Her delivery possesses a rare and timeless quality, infusing each lyric with emotional resonance. Whether she's delivering a heartfelt ballad or joining in the festive musical numbers, Clooney's voice becomes the soulful centerpiece that enriches the film's auditory experience. She’s playful in “Sisters,” and “Snow,” romantic in “Count Your Blessings (Instead of Sheep)” and alluringly sexy in “Love You Didn’t Do Right By Me.”

The plot may not exactly be War and Peace, a touch of schmaltz may linger in the air and the age gap between Rosemary Clooney and Bing Crosby may raise an eyebrow, yet, as any aficionado of the classic musical genre will attest, these factors pale in comparison to the film's true stars: the songs and the dance numbers. White Christmas unabashedly embraces its identity as a musical spectacle, inviting audiences into a world where the power of song and dance takes center stage. The thinness of the plot becomes inconsequential as the film weaves a spell of nostalgia and holiday magic. The pairing of Crosby and Clooney, despite the age difference, works because of their musical chemistry. Their voices blend harmoniously. It's not about the realism of the romantic plot but the enchantment of their vocal duets that defines their on-screen connection. The dance numbers and choreography emerge with the infectious spirit of the season, transforming the screen into a canvas where performers like Danny Kaye and Vera-Ellen become conduits of joy.

White Christmas unabashedly wears its focus on musical extravagance with pride. It's a showcase where the songs and dance numbers don't just deliver; they over-deliver. The heart of this film lies in its ability to evoke a sense of warmth, camaraderie, and festive cheer.

Let's just say we're doing it for an old pal in the army.

Notable Accomplishments

• Academy Award Nominee – Best Song; For the song "Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep"

• Highest Grossing Film of 1954

Streaming: Netflix
Digital Rental/Purchase: Available at most major digital retailers
Physical Media: Available on Blu-Ray and DVD