Most people know that June Allyson's pregnancy caused Judy to have to step in here. June, a minor talent next to Garland, would have been perfect for this light material. Judy is way too strong to play the mousey clerk in a music store. At the same time, the movie is inoffensive and offers Garland the chance to display that gorgeous voice. Van and Judy don't really go together but it is not a disastrous marriage. S. Z. Sakall plays S. Z. Sakall beautifully. The addition of the minor characters from the original adds nothing but for a silly plot element about a Stradivarius. Still it is never boring and the MGM luster really works here. Garland's singing is great but is inappropriate for this character. Take a look at the non-musical version if you want to see greatness. Or play a recording of "She Loves Me" to hear how this lovely play could be better musicalized.
Review of In the Good Old Summertime
