Cinematic Techniques Used In Singin In The Rain

Singin’ In the Rain is a musical comedy film released in 1952 that was directed by Stanley Donen and Gene Kelly (the latter being the film’s main protagonist). It is considered one of the best films of all time as it combined multiple genres into a charismatic musical that was accessible to all age groups, with something to offer for everyone. The film had a romantic element with the love story between Gene Kelly’s character Don Lockwood and Debbie Reynold’s Kathy Seldon. It has great comedic timing from Donald O’Connor and Jean Hagen. As well as surprising sexual undertones from the ever vivacious Cyd Charisse. This was all enveloped in a bright and whimsical musical with some of the most recognized songs of the era including Singin’ in the Rain, Good Morning, and Make ‘em Laugh. However, above its natural charisma, there was clearly major work put into the cinematography, montage, and sound that allows film to be a timeless classic for all

It has some typical markers of the era that include fairly animated and over the top vocals, a lot of big band music, and varying types of manufactured sound effects. However a very special part of this film is its use of tap dancing as a separate instrument in the film. Gene Kelly’s signature tap dancing leads to extra percussion, as well as often using his own singing voice in the film. Nearly every song in this film is considered a classic, which apparently everyone either knows or can recognize. For instance, everyone knows the lyrics to Singing in The Rain, Gotta Dance, and Good Morning. Sound is truly the essence of this film, for more than it just being a musical but because its sound is truly what makes memorable. These songs or scenes developed the plots drama or accented moment of happiness that would feed into the plot of the movie. They also drew in interest on the details of each