Seven Brides for Seven Brothers

Things are different for the Pontipee men now that big brother Adam's fetched a bride and brought her to their cabin. Indeed, the unwed brothers are so inspired they raid the town and carry off brides of their own! Like a favorite flannel shirt, everything fits right in this rugged whoop-for-joy directed by Stanley Donen, choreographed by Michael Kidd and featuring an exhilarating Gene dePaul/Johnny Mercer score that won an Academy Award *. Jane Powell and Howard Keel star, supported by a cast of buckskinned dancers and petticoated danseuses. And what steppin'! The barnraising sequence alone -- backflipping, plank-leaping athleticism -- leaves a daylong smile. "Bless Yore Beautiful Hide," all you brides and brothers!

• musical