Gene Kelly was a legendary dancer, actor, and director who made a significant contribution to the golden age of Hollywood musicals.
He was a true pioneer of the genre, and his innovative choreography and charismatic performances continue to inspire dancers and audiences alike. Kelly appeared in numerous films during his career, and he was known for his athleticism, elegance, and charm on screen.
Best Gene Kelly Movies
In this article, we will take a look at some of Gene Kelly’s best movies, exploring his most memorable performances and highlighting the films that truly showcase his talent.
1.Singin’ in the Rain (1952)
Singin’ in the Rain (1952) is widely regarded as one of the greatest musicals of all time, and it is often considered Gene Kelly’s best movie.
Kelly co-directed the film and also starred in it alongside Debbie Reynolds and Donald O’Connor. The movie tells the story of the transition from silent movies to talkies, and it features some of the most iconic
musical numbers in cinema history, including the titular “Singin’ in the Rain” sequence, in which Kelly performs an exuberant dance number in the rain. This movie is a true showcase of Kelly’s talents, as he displays his impeccable dancing skills and his natural charm and charisma.
2.Inherit the Wind (1960)
While Gene Kelly is best known for his musicals, he also starred in some dramatic films, including Inherit the Wind (1960). The movie is based on the real-life Scopes Monkey Trial of 1925, in which a teacher was prosecuted for teaching evolution in a public school.
Kelly played the role of E.K. Hornbeck, a cynical newspaperman who covers the trial. His performance in the film was
widely praised for its wit and intelligence, and it showed that Kelly was capable of more than just musicals. Inherit the Wind is a thought-provoking and powerful film that still resonates today, and Kelly’s performance in it is a testament to his versatility as an actor.
![Inherit the Wind [DVD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/516BuvK08fL.jpg)
- Spencer Tracy, Fredric March, Gene Kelly (Actors)
- Stanley Kramer (Director) - Harold Jacob Smith (Writer)
- Spanish, French (Subtitles)
- Audience Rating: Unrated (Not Rated)
3.An American in Paris (1951)
An American in Paris (1951) is another musical classic that showcases Gene Kelly’s talents as a dancer, actor, and director. The movie tells the story of an American artist named Jerry Mulligan (played by Kelly) who falls in love with a beautiful French woman named Lise (Leslie Caron).
The film features stunning dance sequences set to the music of George Gershwin, including the unforgettable 17-minute ballet finale that was shot on a vast set designed to look like the streets of Paris. Kelly’s
performance in the film is energetic, passionate, and full of joy, and it earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor. An American in Paris is a beautiful and romantic movie that perfectly captures the spirit of Paris and the magic of musicals.
- Gene Kelly, Leslie Caron, Oscar Levant (Actors)
- Vincente Minnelli (Director) - Alan Jay Lerner (Writer)
- English, French (Subtitles)
- Audience Rating: Unrated (Not Rated)
4.On the Town (1949)
On the Town (1949) is a musical comedy that stars Gene Kelly, Frank Sinatra, and Jules Munshin as three sailors who have just 24 hours to explore New York City before they ship out.
The film is filled with memorable songs and dance numbers, including the famous “New York, New York” sequence in which the sailors dance their way through the city.
Kelly’s performance in the film is charming and energetic, and he shows off his incredible dance skills in several scenes. On the
Town is a fun and lighthearted movie that captures the excitement and energy of New York City, and it is a must-see for fans of musicals and classic Hollywood films.
- Gene Kelly, Frank Sinatra, Betty Garrett (Actors)
- Gene Kelly (Director) - Adolph Green (Writer)
- English, French (Subtitles)
- Audience Rating: Unrated (Not Rated)
5.Summer Stock (1950)
Summer Stock (1950) is a musical comedy that stars Gene Kelly and Judy Garland, two of Hollywood’s most beloved stars.
The movie tells the story of a struggling farmer who allows a theater company to use his barn to rehearse a new show, and it features some of the most memorable musical numbers of Kelly’s career, including the barn-raising dance sequence with Garland.
Kelly’s performance in the film is energetic and dynamic, and he
showcases his impeccable dance skills in several scenes. Summer Stock is a feel-good movie that celebrates the joy of music and dance, and it is a great showcase of Kelly’s talents as a performer.
- Judy Garland, Gene Kelly, Eddie Bracken (Actors)
- Charles Walters (Director)
- Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)
6.For Me and My Gal (1942)
For Me and My Gal (1942) is a musical romance that stars Gene Kelly in his feature film debut alongside Judy Garland.
The movie tells the story of two vaudeville performers who fall in love and strive for success during World War I. Kelly’s performance in the film is impressive, and he displays his natural charm and charisma on screen, as well as his dance skills, particularly in the
“Ballin’ the Jack” sequence. For Me and My Gal was a critical and commercial success, and it helped establish Kelly as a major talent in Hollywood. The film is a must-see for fans of classic Hollywood musicals and a great introduction to Kelly’s early work.
- Judy Garland, George Murphy, Gene Kelly (Actors)
- Busby Berkeley (Director)
- French, English, Spanish (Subtitles)
- Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)
7.The Three Musketeers (1948)
The Three Musketeers (1948) is an adventure film that stars Gene Kelly as D’Artagnan, one of the famous musketeers of France.
The movie tells the story of D’Artagnan and his three comrades as they protect the king and queen from their enemies. Kelly’s performance in the film is energetic and athletic, and he brings a sense of swashbuckling fun to the role. The film
is a great showcase of Kelly’s versatility as an actor, as he demonstrates his ability to handle action scenes and sword fights, as well as his natural charm and charisma.
The Three Musketeers is a classic adventure movie that is perfect for fans of historical dramas and action films.
- Lana Turner, Gene Kelly VI, June Allyson (Actors)
- Pandro S. Berman (Director)
- Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)
8.The Pirate (1948)
The Pirate (1948) is a musical comedy that stars Gene Kelly and Judy Garland in their second on-screen collaboration.
The movie tells the story of a young woman named Manuela (Garland) who dreams of being swept away by a legendary pirate named Macoco. When she meets a performer named Serafin (Kelly), he decides to impersonate Macoco to win her heart.
The film features some of the most memorable musical numbers of Kelly’s career, including the exuberant “Be a Clown” sequence with Kelly and Garland. Kelly’s performance in the film is lively and playful, and he showcases his incredible dance skills in several scenes.
The Pirate is a fun and charming movie that is perfect for fans of classic Hollywood musicals.
- Factory sealed DVD
- Judy Garland, Gene Kelly, Walter Slezak (Actors)
- Vincente Minnelli (Director) - Frances Goodrich (Writer) - Arthur Freed (Producer) - S.N. Behrman...
- English, French (Subtitles)
- Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)
9.Anchors Aweigh (1945)
Anchors Aweigh (1945) is a musical comedy that stars Gene Kelly and Frank Sinatra as two sailors who go on shore leave in Hollywood.
The movie features some of the most iconic musical numbers of Kelly’s career, including the famous dance sequence with Jerry the Mouse from the Tom and Jerry cartoon.
Kelly’s performance in the film is energetic and full of life, and he showcases his incredible dance skills in several scenes. The film was a
commercial and critical success and earned Kelly an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Anchors Aweigh is a delightful and entertaining movie that captures the spirit of Hollywood and the joy of musicals.
- Special Features * Archival Interview with Animation Legends William Hanna and Joseph Barbera
- Excerpt from the Documentary Series MGM: WHEN THE LION ROARS
- Three Theatrical Trailers
- Color * Full Screen
- Languages and Subtitles in English and French
10.Brigadoon (1954)
Brigadoon (1954) is a romantic fantasy musical that stars Gene Kelly and Cyd Charisse. The movie tells the story of two American tourists who stumble upon a mysterious Scottish village that only appears once every hundred years.
Kelly’s performance in the film is charming and romantic, and he showcases his incredible dance skills in several scenes, including the iconic “Sword Dance” sequence with Charisse. The film features some of the most
beautiful and memorable songs of Kelly’s career, including “Almost Like Being in Love” and “The Heather on the Hill.” Brigadoon is a timeless and enchanting movie that is perfect for fans of classic Hollywood musicals and romantic fantasies.
- Brigadoon - DVD Brand New
- Cyd Charisse, Gene Kelly, Van Johnson (Actors)
- Vincente Minnelli (Director)
- Danish, English, Finnish, French, Hungarian (Subtitles)
- English (Publication Language)
3 Reasons To Watch Gene Kelly Movies
Incredible Dance Skills: Gene Kelly was known for his incredible dance skills, which were both athletic and graceful. His innovative choreography and precise movements continue to inspire dancers and choreographers today.
Watching his movies allows you to witness his unique and unforgettable dance style, which is a testament to his talent and hard work.
Iconic Musical Numbers: Kelly starred in some of the most iconic musicals of all time, including Singin’ in the Rain, An American in Paris, and On the Town. These films are filled with unforgettable musical numbers that are still beloved by audiences today.
Watching his movies gives you the chance to experience the magic of classic Hollywood musicals and appreciate the timeless music and dance sequences.
Classic Hollywood Charm: Gene Kelly was a true Hollywood legend, and his movies capture the classic Hollywood charm and glamour of the golden age of cinema. Watching his films is like stepping back in time to a world of romance, adventure, and music.
His performances are full of charisma and charm, and he has a natural screen presence that is both captivating and entertaining. Watching Gene Kelly movies is a wonderful way to experience the magic of classic Hollywood and appreciate the timeless artistry of one of its greatest stars.
Best Gene Kelly Movies – Wrap Up
Gene Kelly was a legendary performer who left an indelible mark on Hollywood and the world of dance. His innovative choreography, incredible dance skills, and natural charisma made him one of the most beloved and influential stars of the golden age of cinema.
From his iconic performances in Singin’ in the Rain and An American in Paris to his early work in For Me and My Gal and his dramatic turn in Inherit the Wind, Kelly’s movies continue to delight and inspire audiences today.
Whether you are a fan of musicals, romance, or adventure, watching Gene Kelly movies is an unforgettable experience that captures the timeless magic of classic Hollywood.
