21) MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS
Director: Vincente Minnelli
Actors: Judy Garland, Margaret O'Brien, Mary Astor,
Lucille Bremer, Leon Ames, Tom Drake
Year: 1944
In another classic movie, Judy Garland shines with charisma and beauty. She stars as the eldest daughter in a family that finds out they must move from their childhood home in St. Louis to New York. Garland's famously amazing rendition of 'Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas' is one of the sweetest (and best) parts of this lovely film. Also, you'll fall in love with adorable 7-year-old Margaret O'Brien (who was one of the best child actors of the 40s).
As a little girl, I just ADORED Margaret O'Brien. Everyone else's favorite was Shirley Temple, but I always thought she was too cutesy... her performances seemed designed to get adults to say, "Aaawww." Margaret O'Brien was a serious little actress, giving quite nuanced performances in some rather dramatically demanding roles. With Shirley Temple, you were always aware you were watching Shirley Temple perform. Margaret O'Brien was able to put her character forward. What ever happened to her, anyway?
ReplyDeleteI agree. She had substance (unlike fluffy Temple). She actually won a special Oscar for this performance. Best Child Actor. It was stolen and it took her nearly fifty years to get it back (when it was discovered in an antique shop). She pretty much stopped acting in the 80s, but has appeared as herself in a few projects.
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