Watch That's Entertainment

That's Entertainment! is a 1974 American documentary film that celebrates the history of MGM musicals. The film was directed by Jack Haley Jr. and features a star-studded cast of famous musical performers such as Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly, Bing Crosby, Elizabeth Taylor, and Frank Sinatra. The film is structured around a series of musical clips from classic MGM movies, and weaved together with interviews and behind-the-scenes footage. The film explores the history of the MGM musical and its evolution over time, showcasing some of the most famous musical numbers in cinema history. The film is essentially a tribute to the great MGM musicals of the 1930s through the 1950s. The film starts with the iconic opening credits which feature clips and stills of various MGM musicals, as well as background information about the film's production. From there, the film takes viewers on a journey through the history of MGM musicals, beginning with the earliest sound films in the 1920s, through the Golden Age of Hollywood in the 1930s and 1940s, and ending with the decline of the musical in the 1950s. Throughout the film, viewers are treated to classic performances by some of the most famous musical performers in Hollywood history. Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly, Judy Garland, Frank Sinatra, Elizabeth Taylor, and many others all make appearances, performing iconic musical numbers from such films as Singin' in the Rain, An American in Paris, The Wizard of Oz, and Gigi. In addition to the musical performances, the film also includes interviews with many of the performers and filmmakers who played a key role in the MGM musicals. We hear from Irving Berlin, George Gershwin, and other legendary composers, as well as directors and producers such as Vincente Minnelli and Stanley Donen. These interviews provide a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of some of the most famous musicals in cinema history. One of the key themes of the film is the idea of nostalgia. The film was made in the mid-1970s, at a time when the musical had largely fallen out of favor with audiences, and so the film was a way of celebrating the best of a bygone era. As such, the film is very much a product of its time, but it also serves as a time capsule of a genre that was once immensely popular and influential in Hollywood. Overall, That's Entertainment! is a celebration of the joy and magic of musicals. The film is a fast-paced, high-energy romp through some of the greatest musical moments of all time, and its combination of performance footage, interviews, and behind-the-scenes glimpses make it a must-see for any fan of classic Hollywood cinema. While the film has its flaws, it is ultimately a loving tribute to a genre that has brought so much pleasure to audiences over the years.