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Bust-Down Film & Features
Oklahoma! Rogers & Hammerstein Golden Anniversary VHS
Oklahoma! Rogers & Hammerstein Golden Anniversary VHS
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Oklahoma!
Directed by Fred Zinnemann
Directed by Fred Zinnemann
Rogers & Hammerstein Golden Anniversary Edition VHS
Awards: Academy Award for Best Sound Mixing & Academy Award for Best Original Musical
An American classic musical film released in 1955, draws its inspiration from the beloved Broadway production that debuted in 1943. Crafted by the talented duo of composer Richard Rodgers and lyricist/librettist Oscar Hammerstein II. Set against the backdrop of the Oklahoma territory just prior to its statehood.
The story explores the romantic entanglements of two cowboys and their sweethearts, revealing the complexities of love and desire.
At the center of this narrative are Curly (portrayed by Gordon MacRae) and Laurey (played by Shirley Jones), whose unspoken affection for one another is put to the test. In an act of defiance against Curly, Laurey reluctantly accepts an invitation to the town dance from her family's troubled farmhand, Jud Fry (depicted by Rod Steiger). Meanwhile, Will Parker (played by Gene Nelson) returns from Kansas City with ambitions to wed Ado Annie (the vivacious Gloria Grahame). However, Ado Annie's playful nature, encapsulated in her inability to say no, leads her into a flirtation with the charming peddler Ali Hakim (played by Eddie Albert).
As romantic misunderstandings unfold, Will ultimately secures Ado Annie’s love, while Curly and Laurey’s relationship culminates in marriage.
The film features a host of iconic musical numbers, including the title track “Oklahoma!,” “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” “The Surrey with the Fringe on Top,” and “People Will Say We’re in Love.” Notably, Oklahoma! retains the elaborate ballet sequence from its stage counterpart, enhancing its visual storytelling. Directed by Fred Zinnemann, whose reputation was primarily built on classic dramas such as High Noon (1952) and From Here to Eternity (1953), this film represents a unique foray into the musical genre for the acclaimed director.
Additionally, the production of Oklahoma! was groundbreaking, marking it as the most expensive musical ever made at the time, with a budget of $7 million.
The film was shot in two distinct wide-screen formats—once in the 70-mm Todd-AO process and again in 35-mm CinemaScope, the latter allowing for broader theatrical distribution. Viewers can notice subtle variances between the two versions, adding a layer of intrigue to this timeless classic.
This vibrant adaptation of Oklahoma! continues to resonate with audiences today, celebrating themes of love, community, and the spirit of the American heartland.
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