Words and Music (1948) [Warner Archive Blu-ray review]

Words and Music is a stunning biopic about the Rodgers and Hart partnership. Not a fan of musical theater? Well, Words and Music might not be the movie for you. MGM in the late 1940s was on a major kick to promote their musical ties and the success of the format in America. Finding a vehicle to merge the talents of Mickey Rooney and Tom Drake was seen as a win. But, they also took a shot on having Gene Kelly choreograph the first modern ballet piece in a Hollywood feature film. Given that Hart has just died 5 years earlier, it was a loving tribute to a real Titan.

People loved movies about Broadway

Words and Music kicks off with aspiring lyricist Lorenz “Larry” Hart (Mickey Rooney) meeting composer Richard “Dick” Rodgers (Tom Drake) in 1919, setting the stage for their creative partnership. The duo struggles initially, and Rodgers almost quits the music business. Hart finds himself captivated by singer Peggy Lorgan McNeil (Betty Garrett), though their personal relationship turns tumultuous. The film glosses over Hart’s real-life struggles with depression and alcoholism, focusing instead on the duo’s hits, from Broadway successes to memorable collaborations with stars like Judy Garland and Gene Kelly.

This adaptation, typical of biopics of the time, sanitizes much of Hart’s life—eliminating his sexual orientation and focusing instead on fictional romantic pursuits. The story is more a showcase for Rodgers and Hart’s musical legacy than a true-to-life biography. Despite the sugarcoated narrative, the film’s emotional undercurrents are palpable, especially as Hart’s eventual collapse looms, juxtaposed against the team’s Broadway triumphs.

Garland and Rooney’s last tango

Words and Music is, above all else, a musical celebration of Rodgers and Hart’s songbook. The movie features beloved classics like “The Lady is a Tramp,” “Blue Moon,” and “My Funny Valentine.” The songs are the real stars, and the film uses each musical number to showcase the personalities of the actors involved, creating moments that range from deeply romantic to outright exuberant.

The highlight, of course, is Judy Garland’s appearance, which marks the final time she shared the screen with Mickey Rooney. Their chemistry is undeniable, as Garland belts out hits in her signature style. Meanwhile, Lena Horne’s rendition of “Where or When” is sultry and commanding, contrasting with June Allyson’s lighthearted performance of “Thou Swell.” The musical numbers are extravagantly staged, packed with colorful costumes and vibrant sets that capture the essence of Broadway.

What was it about music production that had the 1940s’ attention?

The film is very much a product of its time—a glossy, romanticized look at the world of Broadway. The struggles between Rodgers and Hart are simplified, and Hart’s real-life issues with mental health and sexuality are conspicuously absent. Instead, Words and Music aims to celebrate their partnership through its dazzling musical numbers and heartwarming moments, making it less about the man and more about the magic they created together.

Despite its shortcomings in portraying the reality of Hart’s life, Words and Music is a loving tribute to the music that defined an era. The movie illustrates the sacrifices artists make, but it does so in a way that keeps the audience entertained rather than bogged down by the harsher truths. Rodgers is portrayed as the steady hand, while Hart is depicted as the tortured genius, giving the narrative a somewhat cliché but nevertheless effective emotional hook.

Some final thoughts

Words and Music may not be an entirely honest biopic, but it’s a stunning showcase of classic Hollywood spectacle. Its strength lies in its musical numbers, where the true essence of Rodgers and Hart’s genius comes alive. While the film may not dig deep into the real-life complexities of the famous songwriting duo, it succeeds in capturing the joy, romance, and artistry of their songs.

The Warner Archive Blu-ray release ensures that Words and Music shines as brightly as it did in 1948. Whether you’re here for the Hollywood nostalgia, the music, or to see Garland and Rooney share the screen one last time, this release makes the film well worth revisiting. It’s a heartfelt tribute to two of Broadway’s most beloved talents—one that celebrates the music above all, and in doing so, captures a little piece of Hollywood magic that still resonates today.

Let’s talk about the Words and Music Warner Archive Blu-ray

Words and Music is another stunning Warner Archive Blu-ray release. You get a commentary from Richard Barrios and a ton of featurettes. There are even unused musical sequences and audio only outtakes. By the time, I watched the MGM cartoon I was left wondering why we can’t just get the Classic Night at the Movies programming feature back. I would love to watch what it was like to check out this movie in 1948 while I watch a classic MGM short in glorious 1080p HD.

The A/V Quality is quite solid with a stunning 1080p transfer and supportive DTS-HD 2.0 mono track. Even if you don’t like musicals or musical adjacent material, check out this biopic. I wholeheartedly recommend it.

Words and Music is now available on Warner Archive Blu-ray from MovieZyng and others

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