CHRISTMAS REVIEW OF THE DAY: White Christmas (1954)

Our next Christmas review is White Christmas, starring one of the coolest men who had ever lived, Bing Crosby. Crosby plays Bob Wallace, a World War II vet who is buddies with Phil Davis (Danny Kaye) who is also a vet and was army buddies with Wallace. After the war, Wallace and Davis become big names in show business. When looking for talent they come across two beautiful performers, who are sisters, Betty (Rosemary Clooney) and Judy (Vera-Ellen). Wallace seems to hit it off pretty good with Betty and Davis seems to hit it off pretty good with Judy. Betty and Judy are on their way to Vermont to perform at a vacation lodge, so Wallace and Davis tag along. Wallace finds out that the lodge is being run by his former commanding officer during the war, Thomas Waverly (Dean Jagger). But the lodge is not doing so well due to the lack of snow, which means lack of guests. It's up to Bob, Phil, Betty, and Judy, to put on spectacular show to bring in guests. 

Say what you want but I believe Bing Crosby is just as good as an actor as he is a singer. I will admit that this is probably the only film I've seen him in, but from what I saw I was really impressed. What I got from his performance was surprisingly he was not just being Bing Crosby he was his character. To be honest from the beginning he not really the charming suave man we all know him to be, he actually kind of starts off as a selfish jerk. But there are layers to him because you can tell he has a heart of gold, and this shown with his relationship between his friend and commanding officer. Davis is an enjoyable chaarcter. He's funny, energetic, and delivers a good line here and there. Rosemary Clooney as Betty is enjoyable as well. She's nice talented, charming, and shares good and believable chemistry with Crosby. Vera-Ellen as Judy may start boring and bland, but the character does redeem herself by sharing very good chemistry with Betty. You believe that the two are sisters, and they do care for one another. Not one of my favorite characters, but still far from a terrible one.



The music is very catchy and enjoyable. The songs give you a fun time when listening to them, they are all grand, and each song sequence do not miss an opportunity be impressive. To be honest the film as a whole has little to do with the actual holiday of Christmas. But I believe the themes of Christmas are still very present. The story is all about giving back and being giving to those who really need your help. There are themes about making an impact somebody else's life and just being a grateful human being in general. These are themes that Christmas represent. And the little things that have to do with Christmas that is worked into the film is decent and is enough to be admired. Overall, White Christmas is a wonderful film. It has likable and memorable songs, fun song numbers, timeless themes, and just an overall welcoming atmosphere. A worthy addition to the Christmas playlist.

GRADE: AE

SANTA'S LIST: NICE