Whether you're looking for a classic holiday film or just a good movie to watch with your family, Bethany Hutchens says “White Christmas” is the perfect choice

By Bethany Hutchens
Gargoyle staff reporter
Posted Monday, Dec. 18, 2006, The OG, arts

OH, FOR A simpler time. A time when musical numbers abounded in all walks of life, when romance was a kiss on the cheek, and where real friendships were formed in the Army. This holiday season you can revisit the golden era with “White Christmas.”

Released in 1954, the film stars Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye as Bob Wallace and Phil Davis, two business partners and war buddies, and Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen as Betty and Judy Haynes, sisters who do cabaret acts.

Phil Davis tries to play matchmaker and introduces Wallace to the girls. Hilarity ensues as the friends have to rescue the sisters from their landlord by doing the cabaret number themselves.

The four end up in a train bound for Vermont, where the sisters have a gig. Davis convinces Wallace to take their vacation at the lodge where the sisters will be staying.

In Vermont, Wallace and Davis discover that their commander from the Army, Maj. Gen. Waverly (Dean Jagger), owns the failing lodge where the girls are due to perform. The four decide to help the general attract customers.

This lighthearted movie is sure to cheer you up this season. The romance that develops between Vera-Ellen as Judy Haynes and Bing Crosby as Bob Wallace is touching without being risqué.

There are plenty of laughs due to the turbulent relationship between Davis and Wallace, and the many romantic mix-ups. My favorite parts of the film are the musical numbers “Sisters,” “Mandy,” and of course, “I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas.”

If you're looking for a movie for the family or if you're hankering for some snow this season, look no further. “White Christmas” is sure to become one of your holiday staples.

“White Christmas” came out in 1954. It is available on DVD. Runtime: 120 minutes. Score by Irving Berlin. Directed by Michael Curtiz, best known for directing “Casablanca.” Trivia: Rosemary Clooney, who starred as Betty Haynes, was George Clooney's aunt. (She died in 2002.)

RELATED

— The film's IMDB entry

— YouTube video clip of Bing Crosby singing “White Christmas”