Calamity Jane (1953)

One of the great, uplifting screen musicals, Calamity Jane is propelled by hugely charismatic performances from Doris Day, Howard Keel and a host of tuneful, toe-tapping songs.

Deadwood, Dakota Territory, is largely the abode of men, where Indian scout Calamity Jane (Day) is as hard-riding, boastful, and handy with a gun as any – quite an overpowering personality. But the army lieutenant she favors doesn’t really appreciate her finer qualities. One of Jane’s boasts brings her to Chicago to recruit an actress for the Golden Garter stage. Arrived, the lady in question appears (at first) to be a more feminine rival for the favors of Jane’s male friends… including her friendly enemy Wild Bill Hickock (Keel).

One of the things that makes Calamity Jane particularly intriguing is the subtext that appears to be lurking under the surface. The classic songs ‘Secret Love’ and ‘A Woman’s Touch’ seem to tell a whole other story about our gun-totin’, buckskin-wearin’ heroine…

Subtext, or no subtext, few films are likely to bring so much joy to your day.

Dir. David Butler, USA 1953, 101 mins. With Doris Day, Howard Keel, Allyn Ann McLerie

Certificate U

345357