Description
Unless otherwise stated DVDs, & Blu-rays are formatted for North American players (usually Region 1: North America NTSC format). Condition: Very good condition overall. No issues. Includes the following films Show Boat (1951) The 1951 film Show Boat is a vibrant Technicolor adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical by Jerome Kern and Oscar Hammerstein II. Set along the Mississippi River in the late 19th century, the story follows the lives of performers and workers on the Cotton Blossom showboat as they navigate love, loss, and the challenges of racial and social divides. The film stars Kathryn Grayson as Magnolia, the naive but talented daughter of the showboat’s captain, and Howard Keel as Gaylord Ravenal, a charming gambler who sweeps her off her feet. Ava Gardner delivers a powerful performance as Julie, a mixed-race singer facing prejudice and heartbreak. With unforgettable musical numbers like "Ol' Man River," "Make Believe," and "Can't Help Lovin' Dat Man," Show Boat is filled with gorgeous songs and rich storytelling. This 1951 version brings lavish production values, dazzling costumes, and timeless melodies to the screen, making it a must-watch for fans of classic musicals and anyone interested in a beautifully crafted slice of American theater history. Annie Get Your Gun (1950) Annie Get Your Gun is a 1950 musical film directed by George Sidney, based on the popular Broadway show of the same name. The story centers around Annie Oakley, a sharp-shooting, no-nonsense woman from Ohio, played by Betty Hutton. Annie is discovered by Frank Butler (Howard Keel), a handsome marksman, who becomes her romantic rival and love interest. The film follows their adventures as they both compete in a wild west-style shooting competition, with plenty of comedic rivalry and romantic tension. Set against the backdrop of a traveling circus, Annie Get Your Gun is filled with energetic performances, catchy songs like "There's No Business Like Show Business" and "Anything You Can Do," and lively choreography. The film explores themes of love, self-confidence, and the breaking of gender norms, as Annie proves herself to be a true star in a man's world. With its vibrant costumes, humor, and heartfelt moments, the film is a timeless example of classic Hollywood musicals. Seven Brides For Seven Brothers (1954) Seven Brides for Seven Brothers is a 1954 American musical film directed by Stanley Donen, set in the rugged, mountainous backdrop of 1850s Oregon. The story follows the wild and comedic adventures of a mountain man named Adam Pontipee (Howard Keel), who marries a young woman named Milly (Jane Powell) and brings her to live on his isolated farm. However, Adam’s six unruly, bachelor brothers, who live in the nearby woods, are less than thrilled about the idea of sharing their brother's new wife. The plot kicks into motion when Milly tries to bring some civilization to the home, teaching the brothers proper manners and how to attract wives. When the brothers fall for local women, they kidnap them in a hilarious and unconventional attempt to win their hearts, leading to a series of misadventures and conflicts. Seven Brides for Seven Brothers is celebrated for its energetic dance sequences, including the famous barn-raising number, "Bless Your Beautiful Hide," and the highly choreographed "Goin' Courtin'." The film's blend of romance, humor, and stunning musical numbers, along with its picturesque setting, made it one of the most beloved musicals of the 1950s. The film explores themes of love, family, and the chaos of romance in a lighthearted and charming way. Kiss me Kate (1953) Kiss Me, Kate is a vibrant 1953 musical film directed by George Sidney, based on the Broadway musical of the same name by Cole Porter. The film is a lively adaptation of Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew, set against the backdrop of a musical production in the 1950s. The story revolves around a feuding divorced couple, Fred Graham (Howard Keel) and Lilli Vanessi (Kathryn Grayson), who find themselves cast as Petruchio and Katharina in a Broadway adaptation of the classic play. As rehearsals unfold, their off-stage romantic tensions resurface, leading to comedic and chaotic moments. The film features a rich score with memorable songs like "Another Op'nin', Another Show," "So in Love," and "Brush Up Your Shakespeare," blending clever lyrics and dynamic choreography with a lively ensemble cast. Kiss Me, Kate is notable for its dazzling production numbers, including a stunning rendition of "Too Darn Hot," and the use of both the play within a play structure and the charm of classic Broadway. The film explores themes of love, rivalry, and the complexities of relationships, all while delivering a playful nod to Shakespearean themes. With its energetic performances and vibrant visuals, Kiss Me, Kate remains a beloved classic in the musical genre.