Pretending to be an esteemed music professor, a fast-talking conman plans to swindle the residents of the small Iowa town by forming a band that requires expensive costumes and instruments in this big screen version of Meredith Wilson's hit Broadway play. While there are some memorable songs and well choreographed dance routines ("Shipoopi" stands out in particular), the film is mostly carried by the energy that Robert Preston brings to the lead role. He also manages to make his somewhat despicable character likable despite his flaws. In fact, one of the film's best elements is how he unexpectedly brings hope and joy to the lives of so many youngsters when all that drives him (at least initially) is the con. Co-lead Shirley Jones is less effective, though much of that has to do with how the character is written. Described as an "old maid" and pitched as love interest for Preston (who looks old enough to be her father!), it feels like a part written for a much older actress. The way Jones quickly flips from being scrupulous of Preston to falling in love with him never quite feels right either and the pair lack romantic chemistry together. Fortunately, much of the film focuses instead on Preston inadvertently changing the town for the better and between the detailed costumes and catchy music, this remains a pleasant enough musical experience.
Review of The Music Man
