I think some people—before we watched the movie—said they were big fans of Phil Silvers (I think I have that name right—I’m not familiar with him) and I don’t want to judge him based on this character, but I FUCKING HATED this “wacky” character, everything about him, from the stupid tractor shit down to the terrible music number.
Having said that, even though the film wasn’t perfect, it was a good Thanksgiving choice. Both Judy Garland and Gene Kelly were great. Even if the story was somewhat rote, they totally redeemed it. His number with the piece of paper/squeaky board was awesome, as were others.
Although The musical finale did seem insanely slapped-together (with Garland’s big number being the exception). And the ending of the movie felt totally rushed to wrap up—sister and fiancé together for no real reason!
i also thought the “sometimes a woman needs a man to tell her what to do” shit was datedly funny. Oh, 1950!