Warner Archive Blu-ray Review: Lovely to Look At (1952) – MGM’s Musical Beauty Shines Again

MGM was arguably the king of musical cinema. They produced some of the best and most iconic musicals including; Singin’ in the Rain (1952), The Wizard of Oz (1939), An American in Paris (1951), Meet Me in St. Louis (1944), Gigi (1958), The Band Wagon (1953), Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (1954), Easter Parade (1948), On the Town (1949) and High Society (1956) which recently received a 4K release from Warner Archive Collection.

Warner Archive have been releasing many of these classic MGM Musicals on Blu-ray and now it is time for another. This time it is the 1952 a remake of the musical hit "Roberta". This film boasts of an all-star cast that features Kathryn Grayson, Howard Keel and America's Clown Red Skelton.

Synopsis: Would-be Broadway producers (Red Skelton, Howard Keel and Gower Champion) decide to raise money by selling Skelton's half-interest in a Parisian dress salon. When they fly to Paris to meet the co-owners (Kathryn Grayson and Marge Champion), they soon discover the salon is as down and out as they are. A plan is quickly devised to turn dress sales around with a musical fashion show. But everything gets side-tracked when everyone starts to fall in love-complicated by the arrival of Keel's old girlfriend (played by a ravishing Ann Miller). 

Make no mistake this musical will not be mentioned in the same breath as the greatest MGM musicals, but it is a very nice little musical. The costumes are out of this world. And the music by Jermone Kern is outstanding. They feature such great songs as "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes" and "I Won't Dance".

The performances are spectacular, but for me always a highlight, when he is in a film, is the comedy of Red Skelton. Red had a unique way to connect with the audience without breaking the fourth wall. 

Warner Archive have restored and transferred Lovely to Look at to Blu-ray in 1080p and is presented in 1.37:1 aspect ratio. The audio track is an English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0. There are also English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing.

Warner Archive's restoration and transfer is simply amazing. The colors are bright and vibrant, the flesh tones are correct, and the audio is clear as a bell. This is yet another stunning picture restoration. But they didn't stop there. Warner Archive Collection added some cool bonus features. Take a look at what is included.

* Dog Trouble: A classic Tom and Jerry Cartoon
"Have You Ever Wondered?": A Pete Smith Specialty
Original Theatrical Trailer

The addition of a classic Tom and Jerry cartoon is always a fun bonus. But for me the best would have to be the Pete Smith Short. I always enjoy the comedy shorts featuring Dave O'Brien. Pete Smith was a master of these short films so having one of them on these Blu-rays are always a welcomed bonus.

If you love musical comedies this new Warner Archive Blu-ray of Lovely to Look At is a must own for your collection. A Beautiful transfer and fun bonus features will make this a great addition to your home video library. Head over to MovieZyng or Amazon and order your copy today.


Out of 4 Film Reels (4 being the best) Warner Archive's Blu-ray of Lovely to look at recieves.....

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