I can’t help it. I have to watch The Music Man at least once a year. I don’t know if it’s the story about a flim flam man redeemed, the “old maid” finding love finally, a young man overcoming his obstacles, or all the other wonderful aspects of the film, but I’m drawn to it annually.
Robert Preston, as Professor Harold Hill, is absolutely amazing. Of course, he had plenty of rehearsal time as he had originated the role in the play written by Meredith Wilson. His physicality is to be commended. However, his performance of the songs should be, and was with a Tony, rewarded. Yes, You’ve Got Trouble!
Of course, Preston wasn’t the only one to give a stellar performance. The opening scene aboard the train is an absolute delight. I can’t even recite the name of my grandchildren as easily as the performers in the scene. Whaddya talk, whaddya talk? They clearly know the territory.
The Buffalo Bills, who portray the school board members, are a refreshing throwback to the days of barber shop quartets. Throughout the years, I have found myself just singing the words “ice cream”. I also remember singing “Goodnight Ladies” in Cub Scouts. It didn’t quite sound the same.
Some great character actors also appear in the movie. There are at least three performers from The Andy Griffith Show in the movie, the biggest being little Opie Taylor himself, Ron Howard. Even back then, he was a great child star. Paul Ford and Hermione Gingold, as Mayor and Mrs. Shinn, are a hilarious treat. Let’s not forget Buddy Hacker and his brain-infecting song, Shipoopi.
I used to do impressions when I was younger. Sometimes I still do for the kids or a laugh from adults. This movie, however, has made me give every Irish person the high squeak sound of Pert Kelton’s Mrs. Paroo. You should hear me sing “Gary Indiana”. Or maybe you shouldn’t.
The only thing I don’t like about the movie is the Shirley Jones character. I’m not usually fond of musicals and she’s the reason why. The old drawn out love sings absolutely bore me to death. The only saving grace is it’s not that warbley throat stutter singing voice of very early films. I never understood why they were sung like that.
Marian Paroo aside, the movie is nearly flawless. The acting, sounds, sites, and vocabulary are absolutely mesmerizing. If you’ve never watched the film, do so soon. If you have, do it again soon. I’ve got to go now. The Sociable scene is about to start. In the meantime… Watch your phraseology!
Let’s talk soon …
