Director : Gene Kelly and Stanley Donen

Stars :
Gene Kelly .... Don Lockwood
Donald O'Connor .... Cosmo Brown
Debbie Reynolds .... Kathy Selden
Jean Hagen .... Lina Lamont

Preparation :
Read the movie reviews by Roger Ebert, the New York Times Review and James Berarndinelli.

Historical/Social Significance :
"It's a brilliant satire of the chaos into which the industry descended when sound came in - and a sharp, funny commentary on the perversities of big studio politics." - Michael Wimington Chicago Tribune

"Singin' in the Rain is a transcendent experience and no one who loves movies can afford to miss it." - Roger Ebert

"Although Singin' in the Rain is a lighthearted effort, it recalls genuine issues that arose in Hollywood in the late '20's, when many stars greatly feared the arrival of the talking movies." - James Berardinelli

"Great care was made to authenticate the costumes, the sound studio set and other historical details in the film" - Tom Dirks

"Historically, screen actors and actresses during Hollywood's transition period faced similar disgrace and ridicule and the loss of their careers, e.g. Jon Gilbert. - Tom Dirks

Synopsis :
Silent screen legends Donald Lockwood and Lina Lamont must make the transition to movies with sound.

Guided Questions for Viewing :
Assessment questions will be based on the following :
• "Today, music, movies and TV are characterized by a sense of irony and cynicism that makes older musicals appear naive." Comment on this statement with regard to Singin' in the Rain.
• Describe your favorite scene and why you liked it.
• The climax of the movie uses strategies that shoot down Lina and boost up Kathy. Describe these strategies.