This bowlderised version of Kiss Me Kate lacks lustre, though its sanitised lyrics and dialogue apparently did well enough for 1953 audiences.
Howard Keel is blustering as always, singing in a his semi-operatic style that does not suit the material. The dialogue is declaimed, not acted - although I do grant that that was the stereotype of Shakespearean acting at the time. And even Kate lacks fire/
The candy coloured costuming and set does the film no favours, either.
If you want to see the musical sparkle, see a live production or check out the 2003 DVD of a live performance.
Howard Keel is blustering as always, singing in a his semi-operatic style that does not suit the material. The dialogue is declaimed, not acted - although I do grant that that was the stereotype of Shakespearean acting at the time. And even Kate lacks fire/
The candy coloured costuming and set does the film no favours, either.
If you want to see the musical sparkle, see a live production or check out the 2003 DVD of a live performance.