At first I intended to cover this classic 1944 musical movie, and I must say though there are some extremely outdated moments, and the plot is incredibly simple yet still has flaws and skips around too much for its own good, it is a classic for a reason, very much shows and reflects when it was made but still has elements that show why it is called a classic. Financially and critically successful in it's day and considered a classic work of one of the greats Judy Garland, this romantic comedy about a family in St. Louis living life and finding love in some cases, that jumps throughout the year with multiple holidays, even Christmas. I do not consider this a Christmas movie because the holiday does not take the stage until the hour and twenty minute mark of this hour and fifty minute feature. The main source of conflict being romance as many classic musicals are, with a second element of conflict coming much later in. There are several iconic songs that even outlasted this film and made a name for themselves, some I will be listening to even after my viewing, the acting is superb, and the music is beautiful, and well performed. But that being said "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" originated here, the yuletide classic song that has been covered, played, and performed for decades made its debut here and we have this musical to thank. Many know this song but few know that it all started here with this musical film, so let's look over this version and just how this song has transcended for countless Christmas seasons after.
Esther, played by Judy Garland is looking over her home and life as her whole family will be moving from the life they knew to New York. Leaving everything behind, the boy she loves, her friends, and her life. She sings this tune to try and console her younger sister in this soft yet emotionally powerful moment. Even out of context this song is sang and played over the years, and I first discovered this version of the classic outside of the film it came from, but knew of the film.
The song we have all heard countless times originated with one different lyric that changes the course of the whole song, made for the context of the story but one out of context I prefer over its replacement. What today in many versions of the lyric of "Hang A Shining Star Upon The Highest Bow" was at first "Until Then We'll Have To Muddle Through Somehow". Some of the other lyrics are different, namely to match the movie but they also fit out of context, namely talking about the year to come. Trying to have something to look forward to over the current problem the cast is facing, though it is mainly emotional it is still causing many of them grief.
This song is beautiful and can easily and has been listened to out of context for decades. So much so that I would say the song is more popular then the movie itself. The song invokes a somber but simple wish, just wanting a good Christmas. Wanting to share company with loved ones that we don't see often, hoping to be together over the holiday and for years to come. Wanting to face the current struggles until those joyous days arrive. The song is festive enough yet still somber, planted in wanting to enjoy the holiday but also reality.
This song has surpassed beyond its debut due to a simple yet sweet score, great lyrics, and good message behind it. Wishing a good season for oneself but also one's friends, wishing to be with them and nothing more. It is a sweet and simple song that has so much packed into it. There are so many versions to listen to but I find myself going back to Garland's masterful performance every Christmas. I find it so strong and I encourage you to give it a listen if you have not. The original lyrics packing an emotional and sometimes relatable punch.
This simple and powerful yuletide ballad is more then just a wish, it is a gift worth one listen at least, and perhaps many more.
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