Since Humanity Discovered Vanity

I have a friend who hates all musicals; I try not to hold it against her, but it is difficult for me. If one film genre speaks happiness to me, it isn't a Disney film but a old Hollywood musical where the characters are moved by moments of great elation (or depression) to burst into song and dance. One of the over-looked great musicals is Cover Girl starring Rita Hayworth and Gene Kelly. It is the film that made Rita Hayworth a favorite pin-up (two years before Gilda was made) and helped launch Gene Kelly's career as well. It is the story of a night club dancer who wins a competition that lands her on the cover of a famous magazine and into the lap of a waiting playboy. In typical Hollywood style she has to choose between wealth and true love, but while the drama unfolds we are treated to a feast of sparkly costumes, ridiculous hats, witty dialogue, and snappy dance numbers.