Hit the Deck (1955)

It's not hard to imagine why this picture bombed in 1955: the "sailors on leave" theme must have seemed incredibly tired 10 years after the end of WWII, especially since the premise is similar to several earlier and better films. On the plus side, if you have a good quality television, the film looks terrific, with vibrant, sharp color. There are plenty of songs and dance sequences to keep us from dwelling on the lackluster plot. There is also an unfortunate lack of comic relief. The female leads do a credible job, though they are not matched with male stars of equal stature (with the possible exception of Vic Damone.) Walter Pigeon doesn't show up until late until late in the picture, so I don't count him. Not a great musical, but not terrible either.

which doesn't mean 'gaudy and dated' can't be fun! But there's the tiresome part: this thing misfires, badly. There is a lot of talent involved, some big names from the 50's, Ann Miller doing one of her eye popping tap numbers, a few vaguely familiar songs, an interesting dance number set in a carnival haunted house. Nevertheless, it just doesn't gel. It's one of those musicals with a hundred military men marching in rhythm, three sailors on the town, and the Ultra Perky Debbie Reynolds as the focal point. There she is, all energetic, peppy, and pony- tailed, singing and dancing her heart out. The kind of numbers with the adorable Girl getting tossed to and fro by a bunch of Boy Dancers - as seen on the old Carol Burnett Show! Frankly, these people were a bit too old for the plot line. I found it was (too) corny, dated, and derivative of other similar musicals. In fact, more tiresome and annoying than enchanting and memorable!

This may have been made in the dying days of MGM musicals. No Sinatra. No Kelly. But it has some spectacular classic songs by Vincent Youmans. Plus 2 of the finest voices of all time singing together:Tony Martin & Vic Damone. AND superior musical arrangements & Russ Tamblyn dancing.Never mind the negative reviews elsewhere. They do not make them like this any more. For sure. So enjoy it! Great musical!!

Three sailors can't stay out of trouble. Be it with the girls, mom, or conniving dandies. Plenty of action is provided through song and dance routines where everyone gives fine performances. While this was not a great musical, it was still a nice little story with some good funny spots supplied by J. Carroll Naish and Alan King.