First off-- this is probably the review of a child, as I fell in love with this movie at 10 years old. Still, whenever its on TV, i can't help grinning from ear to ear. It is lively, colorful, sexy, tuneful and filled with wonderful actors. (First off, who doesn't dream of running away from oppressive relatives and joining the circus? Well that's what happens to archaeologist Danny Kaye who of course falls into lots of misadventures and falls in love with the wonderful Selena played by a gorgeous Pier Angeli. Pier Angeli is the charismatic and likable film actresses of the fifties and she steals your heart. (Learning later that Angeli killed herself in real life just always amazed me. What a waste.) Then there is Selena's father, and ringmaster, played by the larger than life Salvatore Baccaloni! Who couldn't fall in love with that name let alone that big bouncy actor? As Pier's Brother, there is the always wonderful Tommy Rall. And the whole thing is directed by choreographic (and way under-appreciated) genius Michael Kidd with his usual athletic fare. I love his choreography of Lil Abner, Guys and Dolls and 7 Brides for 7 Brothers! I give it two merries and hope it comes out on DVD one day..And let me explain the sexy comment. --Pier Angeli is a goddess! Her brothers in tights are hot too) Where do I sign up?
Review of Merry Andrew
