The golden era of Hollywood cinema gifted the world with unforgettable stars and timeless films. Among them, Gene Kelly and Frank Sinatra stand out as titans, their on-screen chemistry a beacon of musical and comedic brilliance. This article delves into their 1949 collaboration, “Take Me Out to the Ball Game,” a vibrant musical that blends athletic prowess with song and dance, offering a delightful glimpse into a bygone era of filmmaking.
Gene Kelly and Frank Sinatra: An Enduring On-Screen Duo
The synergy between Gene Kelly and Frank Sinatra in “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” is palpable, building upon their previous successful partnership in “Anchors Aweigh.” Their contrasting yet complementary characters, Eddie and Dennis, provide a dynamic foundation for the film’s narrative. Eddie, the more flamboyant of the two, embraces the nightlife, while Dennis possesses a quieter, more observant nature, appreciating the subtleties of his surroundings. This established rapport allowed them to anticipate each other’s performances, elevating their comedic and musical numbers.
Esther Williams: A Splash of Brilliance
“Take Me Out to the Ball Game” also marked a significant viewing experience for this writer, being the first film of Esther Williams’ career to be watched. As K.C. Higgins, Williams exudes a commanding presence, skillfully balancing assertiveness with fairness. Her character champions the team’s well-being, notably by instituting a curfew penalty, demonstrating a commitment to ensuring the players’ optimal performance. Williams is equally at ease in scenes on land as she is in the water, showcasing her versatility.
Set Design: Capturing the Sunshine State
The film’s production design masterfully evokes the atmosphere of its Florida setting. From the stadium situated on the beach, bathed in fair weather, to the illuminated pool area at night, the sets are visually appealing and immersive. The hotel’s exterior, with its white balcony against a dark sky, and the carefully chosen outdoor furniture—tan wicker chairs complemented by lush green plants—create a harmonious color palette that enhances the viewing experience.
Musical Numbers: A Choreographic Triumph
The majority of the musical numbers in “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” are a highlight, characterized by skillful choreography and the performers’ evident enjoyment. The opening tap-dance duet between Sinatra and Kelly in “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” is a testament to their collaborative spirit, with Sinatra, despite tap dancing being outside his usual comfort zone, holding his own. Esther Williams also contributes a memorable swimming and singing sequence, adding her unique flair to the film’s musical landscape.
Songs That Haven’t Aged Gracefully
However, not all aspects of the film have stood the test of time. Two songs, “Yes, Indeedy” and “It’s Fate Baby, It’s Fate,” present dated lyrical content and themes. “Yes, Indeedy,” performed by Sinatra and Kelly, touches on sensitive subjects like suicide and the involvement of an underage girl in a manner that feels jarring given contemporary sensibilities. “It’s Fate Baby, It’s Fate,” sung by Betty Garrett’s character, Shirley, portrays an uncomfortably aggressive pursuit of Dennis, bordering on unhealthy obsession, and a lack of respect for his clear disinterest.
The Character of Shirley: A Developmental Flaw
While Betty Garrett delivers a commendable performance, her character, Shirley, is a notable weakness in the film. Shirley’s self-centered nature and forceful approach to pursuing Dennis, coupled with her disregard for his feelings and repeated attempts to dominate him, detract from the narrative. The surrounding characters’ tendency to overlook Shirley’s aggressive behavior and encourage Dennis’s engagement with her further exacerbates this issue.
An Anachronistic Setting
“Take Me Out to the Ball Game” is reportedly set in 1908, yet certain costume choices disrupt this historical context. The Chicago Wolves’ team sweaters, reminiscent of styles from the 1930s to 1950s, and Esther Williams’ swimsuit, echoing the fashion of her 1940s and 50s aqua musicals, create a temporal dissonance that can pull the viewer out of the film’s intended period.
Overall Impression: A Solid, Though Not Perfect, Classic
While “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” is a commendable film, it doesn’t quite reach the heights of Gene Kelly and Frank Sinatra’s earlier collaboration, “Anchors Aweigh.” Nevertheless, it remains a fine movie, bolstered by the stellar performances of its lead actors and most of its entertaining musical numbers. The film’s primary conflict, revolving around Eddie’s struggle to balance his passion for performing and baseball, is particularly engaging, though perhaps underutilized.
With an overall score of 7.2 out of 10, “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” stands as a delightful, albeit flawed, entry in the musical film canon.
Have you seen “Take Me Out to the Ball Game”? Which Frank Sinatra and Gene Kelly collaboration is your favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Keep enjoying the magic of the movies!
Sally Silverscreen
References
Silverscreen, S. (2020, November 7). Take Me Out to the Ball Game. 18 Cinema Lane. Retrieved from https://18cinemalane.com/2020/11/07/take-3-take-me-out-to-the-ball-game-fred-astaire-and-gene-kelly-blogathon-part-1/