In The Good Old Summertime (1949) {Warner Archive Blu-ray Review}

Reviewed By Jason Lockard

Movie fans in this generation may remember the story of romance by mail, with the 1998 Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan in You've Got Mail. But this idea was put to film twice before. First in 1940 with James Stewart and Margaret Sullivan starring in "The Shop around the Corner" and than 9 years later in 1949 when Judy Garland joined Van Johnson "In the Good old Summertime".

These old MGM musicals have been enjoying a resurgence in this generation. I think the simplicity and the sweetness of a long forgotten era is something most people long for. The good folks at Warner Archive have released this amazing musical just in time for the end of summer.

The film takes place at turn-of-the century Chicago. The beautiful Veronica Fisher (Judy Garland) gets a job in Otto Oberkugen's (S.Z. Sakall) a music shop, much to the dismay of Andrew Larkin (Van Johnson) who feels threatened. The have a true hate hate relationship. But have no idea that they are carrying on an anonymous romance together through the mail.

Now while this film is entitled "In The Good Old Summertime" the majority of the film takes place in the winter. You could really call this a Christmas movie as the story payoff takes place at the Christmas season. The supporting cast ins something special highlighted by the great silent film comedian Buster Keaton.

The songs featured in this musical include, "In the Good Old Summertime", "Meet Me Tonight in Dreamland", "Put Your Arms Around Me, Honey", "Play That Barbershop Chord", "I Don't Care" and "Merry Christmas".

Now while In the Good Old Summertime may not be one the level with The Ship around the corner. This is still an extremely well produced and performed musical. Judy Garland even though she was struggling with her demons of alcohol and drugs really pulls it together her and give a performance with a ton of heart. And Van Johnson is tremendous as always.

Warner Archive transferred this classic musical in in 1080p in 1.37:1 aspect ratio and in 2.0 mono audio. The picture quality is crisp and colors are so beautiful especially around the Christmas time. As for the audio the dialogue and musical numbers are as clear as a bell. There is also English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing.

Now for bonus features on this Blu-ray! Warner Archive went big and added some really cool features. Take a look at what is included.

* Introduction by Judy Garland Biographer John Fricke
* 2 Vintage Fritzpatrick Traveltalks short films "Chicago is Beautiful" and "Night life in Chicago"
* Theatrical Trailers
 
You can check out the movie trailer below:


There is a lot of fun, heart, music and romance in this film and that makes it a great movie for the whole family as there will bound to be something for everyone. Than the bonus features really add a lot to this release. I really enjoyed it.

So if you are a fan of the Judy Garland, Van Johnson or classic musicals this is the best of all those worlds. We highly recommend the "In the Good Old Summertime" on Blu-ray. Head over to Amazon.com and order your copy today.


Out of 4 Film Reels (4 Being the Best) Warner Archive Collection's Blu-ray of In the Good Old Sumertime receives...