7 Origin Stories Behind Classic Film Musicals

During the intense musical era of the early to mid 1900s, stars such as Gene Kelly, Fred Astaire, Debbie Reynolds and Ginger Rogers were famous for their appearance in the classics musical fans have come to know and love over and over again even today. Singin' In The Rain was one of the most successful musicals ever filmed during this time, starring Kelly in the epic all-singing, all-dancing role that has inspired many adaptations since from the famous title song as the protagonist tap dances in the pouring weather.

Before the musical came to light, MGM were looking for a new wave of interesting narratives but were struggling with money and to keep going. The film pitches started to lift off their feet when executive Arthur Freed gave the production his own songs to adapt on to cinema reel.

There was said to be mixed reviews to a few of Fred's songs but his message was clear: make the musical and the studio can keep going. The movie was released in 1952.

The film was only a mild hit when actually released compared to others from the era, but has since become one of the most well known, with Kelly's famous performance saving the day.