An American in Paris (1951) Review in 2025
A romantic musical comedy set in post-war Paris, following the story of an American expat who falls in love with a beautiful French girl.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is suitable for families with older children, as it contains some mild romantic themes and dance sequences.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for fans of musicals, romance, and comedy. It's a beautifully shot and charming film that will leave you feeling uplifted and entertained.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie follows Jerry, an American expat living in Paris, who falls in love with Lise, a beautiful French girl. However, their love is complicated by Jerry's friendship with Lise's fiancé, Henri. The movie features stunning musical numbers, beautiful dance sequences, and a charming story that will leave you feeling uplifted.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is charming and engaging, with a clear narrative that flows smoothly. However, it's not particularly original or complex, and some plot points feel a bit contrived.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with Gene Kelly and Leslie Caron delivering standout performances. The supporting cast is also excellent, with Oscar Levant being a particular highlight.
characters9.00/10
The characters are well-developed and relatable, with Gene Kelly's Jerry being a particularly memorable and endearing protagonist. Leslie Caron's Lise is also lovely, and her chemistry with Kelly is undeniable.
direction9.00/10
Vincente Minnelli's direction is masterful, with a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the material. The pacing is well-balanced, and the film's tone is consistently charming and uplifting.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is stunning, with beautiful black-and-white shots of Paris that will leave you breathless. The dance sequences are also expertly choreographed and shot, with a clear emphasis on showcasing the performers' talents.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The movie's charming story, memorable characters, and stunning cinematography make it a must-watch. The musical numbers are also expertly choreographed and shot, with a clear emphasis on showcasing the performers' talents.
Cons
The plot is not particularly original or complex, and some plot points feel a bit contrived. However, these minor flaws are easily overlooked in favor of the film's many charms.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a painter, I'm a dancer."
"Love is a many-splendored thing."
"The most wonderful thing about Paris is the way it makes you feel."
