Common Sense Media Review
Often considered the finest musical of all time.
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Singin' in the Rain
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 20 parent reviews
Based on 47 kid reviews
Kids say the movie is a classic musical that combines comedy, catchy songs, and a delightful storyline about the transition from silent films to talkies, showcasing memorable performances and iconic dance numbers. While many find it entertaining and suitable for family viewing, some viewers note that certain themes and humor may not resonate with younger children without parental guidance.
- classic musical
- memorable songs
- family-friendly
- iconic dance numbers
- suitable for older kids
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In Singin' in the Rain, silent movie star Don Lockwood (Gene Kelly) is paired on screen with high-maintenance Lina Lamont (Jean Hagan), who would like to be paired with him off screen as well. Sparks fly when Don encounters newbie actress Kathy Selden (Debbie Reynolds), which makes Lina jealous. When the first talking picture, The Jazz Singer, becomes a hit, the stars of the latest Lockwood/Lamont movie, The Dueling Cavalier, are coached in vocal technique in an attempt to turn it into a "talkie" too, but the results are disastrous. Meanwhile, Don and Kathy have fallen in love. After an all-night brainstorming session, Don, Kathy, and Don's best friend, Cosmo (Donald O'Connor), decide to turn the production into a musical, dubbing Kathy's voice for Lina's. But it's not long before Lina and Kathy are put on the spot and have to face the music.
Is It Any Good?
This film is often considered the finest musical of all time. Certainly, Singin' in the Rain has it all: classic musical numbers (including the title sequence, in which Kelly splashes around while singing) and a witty script that's unusually sharp and critical of its industry. The film combines elements from several genres to create a hilarious mix that's meticulously rehearsed and shot but meant to feel like it's happening spontaneously.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about whether or not Singin' in the Rain is entertaining. Does is deserve "classic" status? Why, or why not?
Discuss the history of movies and the period in which silent movies gave way to "talkies." What were some of the problems? What were some of the benefits?
Are there any role models in this film? If so, who, and why?
How do the characters in Singin' in the Rain demonstrate perseverance and teamwork? Why are those character strengths important?
How did you feel about the film's treatment of Lina? Could Don and Cosmo have treated women with more respect?
Movie Details
- In theaters : April 11, 1952
- On DVD or streaming : August 22, 1997
- Cast : Debbie Reynolds , Donald O'Connor , Gene Kelly
- Director : Stanley Donen
- Studio : MGM/UA
- Genre : Musical
- Topics : Arts ( Music and Sing-Along ) , History
- Character Strengths : Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time : 102 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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