I grew up listening to the music of Rodgers and Hart. A film about their lives has plenty of entertainment potential. But film bios are notorious for departing from the truth, and this one is no different. The narrative of "Words and Music" departs from reality so much that it is best to disregard its story and focus on the music. Plenty of their hits are covered here, and that is the film's strong suit.
Rodgers and Hart are played by Tom Drake and Mickey Rooney. Rooney's performance is strong, showing moments of subtle emotion.
Lena Horne sings "The Lady Is A Tramp"---one of the best performances in the film. Judy Garland also shines in two numbers. And Mel Torme sings "Blue Moon" as only he can.
Watch for young Perry Como and Janet Leigh. Cyd Charise also appears, but her dance number fails to display her extraordinary talents.
Among the many R&H tunes in the film, two of my favorites are "Mountain Greenery" and "Thou Swell", both of which demonstrate the clever turns of phrase for which Lorenz Hart was famous.
Rodgers and Hart are played by Tom Drake and Mickey Rooney. Rooney's performance is strong, showing moments of subtle emotion.
Lena Horne sings "The Lady Is A Tramp"---one of the best performances in the film. Judy Garland also shines in two numbers. And Mel Torme sings "Blue Moon" as only he can.
Watch for young Perry Como and Janet Leigh. Cyd Charise also appears, but her dance number fails to display her extraordinary talents.
Among the many R&H tunes in the film, two of my favorites are "Mountain Greenery" and "Thou Swell", both of which demonstrate the clever turns of phrase for which Lorenz Hart was famous.
