This is the story of the Five Donahues, a vaudeville family troupe, and their ups and downs from the heyday all the way to the second World War. Headliners Molly (Ethel Merman) and Terry (Dan Dailey) Donahue struggle to raise their three kids in the theater. Steven (Johnnie Ray) has a talent for singing, Katie (Mitzi Gaynor) loves to dance and Tim (Donald O'Connor) drinks and womanizes. Things come to a head when Tim falls for ambitious Vicky Parker (Marilyn Monroe) but allows his jealously to get the best of him, jeopardizing both his and his sister's career.Monroe has only a small supporting role here and the movie is better for it. Most of the spotlight is on Merman, O'Connor and Gaynor. I had never heard of Johnnie Ray before this. Apparently, he was a popular singer back in the 50's. Frankly, I don't see the appeal. I hated every number he had. By contrast, Dan Dailey (also unknown to me) was a wonderful surprise. I would absolutely watch other films of his.
This is one of those absolute classic musicals and should be seen at least once by everyone.
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