Oklahoma! (1955) Review in 2025
Oklahoma! is a classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical set in the American West, following the story of a young cowboy and his love for a beautiful farm girl. With stunning music, dance, and cinematography, this film is a must-watch for anyone who loves musicals.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Oklahoma! is suitable for all ages, but some scenes may be too intense for very young children. Parents are advised to use discretion when watching with their kids.
CineReview Recommendation
Oklahoma! is a must-watch for anyone who loves musicals, romance, or the American West. It's a classic film that has stood the test of time, and its music and dance numbers are still widely popular today.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The film tells the story of Curly McLain, a young cowboy who falls in love with Laurey Williams, a beautiful farm girl. However, their love is threatened by Jud Fry, a jealous and bitter farmhand who seeks revenge against Curly. The film's climax features a dramatic showdown between Curly and Jud, with the fate of Laurey's heart hanging in the balance.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a clear narrative arc that keeps the viewer invested in the characters' lives. The themes of love, jealousy, and redemption are timeless and relatable.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with Gordon MacRae and Shirley Jones delivering standout performances. The supporting cast is also excellent, adding to the overall energy and charm of the film.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and memorable, with Curly and Laurey being particularly well-portrayed. The supporting cast adds depth and humor to the story.
direction9.50/10
Fred Zinnemann's direction is masterful, bringing out the best in the cast and the music. The cinematography is stunning, capturing the beauty of the American West.
cinematography9.50/10
The cinematography is breathtaking, with stunning shots of the Oklahoma landscape. The use of color and lighting is also noteworthy, adding to the overall mood and atmosphere of the film.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The film's music, dance, and cinematography are all standout elements, making it a visually and aurally stunning experience. The story is engaging and well-paced, with memorable characters and a timeless theme.
Cons
Some scenes may be too intense for very young children, and the pacing can be a bit slow at times. However, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise excellent film.
Notable Quotes
"Oh, what a beautiful mornin'!"
"People will come, Ray, people will most definitely come"
"Surrey with the fringe on top"
