BATHING BEAUTY was never meant to be a classic. It's primarily an excuse to feature Red Skelton in some of his "routiens", like being in drag and doing lots of pantomime. Also a vehicle for showcasing Esther Williams who was just starting out in films. She does well for her first co-starring role. Red is the star in this one unlike NEPTUNES DAUGHTER where he co-stars. The film is likable enough and fun to watch for the by-gone days of the flimsy MGM musical that it is. The plot is almost non-existent and again, just an excuse for Reds antics. Look for a young Janis Paige in the best number in the film. BATHING BEAUTY is one of six titles on DVD in the Williams collection. Now if Warner's would just put out another collection which should include some her better material i.e. EASY TO LOVE; DUCHESS OF IDAHO; SKIRTS AHOY; MILLION DOLLAR MERMAID and THRILL OF A ROMANCE.
Review of Bathing Beauty
