One of the speakers at the conference we recently attended talked about the how American filmmakers’ underlying assumptions have changed over time. I saw a wonderful example of this when I watched the classic film For Me and My Gal.

The film was made in 1942 and directed by Busby Berkeley. (He’s the guy behind all those wonderfully choreographed musicals with all the girls who dive into water.) I really love his films. A lot of them are soft on story but strong on music and choreography.

For Me and My Gal is strong all the way around. The movie addresses issues of patriotism and courage. Gene Kelly wrestles with dodging the draft and ultimately finds a cowardly way of staying out of the army. The guilt he feels is almost too much. This film wouldn’t be made today. By the way, the movie does end happy. Would I like it if it didn’t?

Here is a great scene – Gene Kelly and Judy Garland performing the title song. I love the guy behind the bar. He makes me laugh. I wish I could dance like Gene Kelly.