Hollywood’s most lavish adaptation of the Alexandre Dumas perennial had a star-studded cast, helping it become one of the year’s most popular movies. June Allyson never liked it and Gene Kelly feels anything but believable as the young man who helps the musketeers save the French throne from the evil clutches of Richelieu. Still, his enthusiasm is a plus and director George Sidney knew how to put on a good show, approaching the material as if it were a Western. Lana Turner is memorable as milady de Winter and the movie is a good-looking, fun adventure, albeit with a few dull stretches.
1948-U.S. 125 min. Color. Directed by George Sidney. Novel: Alexandre Dumas. Cinematography: Robert Planck. Cast: Lana Turner (Charlotte de Winter), Gene Kelly (D’Artagnan), June Allyson (Constance Bonacieux), Van Heflin, Angela Lansbury, Robert Coote… Frank Morgan, Vincent Price, Gig Young.
Trivia: Fearing a backlash from religious groups, MGM changed Richelieu’s title from cardinal to prime minister. Robert Taylor and Sydney Greenstreet were allegedly considered for parts in the film.
