Rosemary Clooney reminisces in this documentary short about the making of the 1954 smash hit movie, "White Christmas." The short has some film clips from the movie, and Clooney shares her recollections about some of the cast. She said this movie led to her lifelong friendship with Bing Cosby until his death.
Clooney's recording of a couple of the Irving Berlin songs from "White Christmas" were pop chart hits. She had a wonderful singing voice. She said she and Crosby were a perfect match for duets because they sang in the same key naturally. She said that the making of that film was a luxury because they took their time. "We had six weeks of rehearsals," she said – something unheard of today. It was Bing's picture and everyone knew that. While he naturally was a little withdrawn from others, Danny Kaye came up with something every day that would make Crosby laugh.
Vera-Ellen was wonderful to work with, and so patient with her, helping her with their dance routines. Vera-Ellen was probably the best female dancer of all time. Michael Curtiz was a wonderful director. He would give an actor little tips and then step back for the actor to interpret the role.
Clooney also said she wanted to meet Irving Berlin when she got the part in this film. He wasn't on the set a lot, but when they did his numbers he was there. She got to meet him and they became friends. Her rendition of "Love, You Didn't Do Right By Me" from "White Christmas" is the hands down best and favorite.
This is an interesting look at some of the cast and characters in the making of a timeless classic Christmas film. Those interested in Hollywood and film history should enjoy it.
