(1958)
3.5
Craig Butler
Like such other Broadway luminaries as Ethel Merman and Mary Martin, Gwen Verdon was rarely given the opportunity to re-create her stage triumphs onscreen. Damn Yankees is the sole exception, and Verdon makes the most of the opportunity. The ultimate Bob Fosse dancer, she moves with a snakelike grace yet muscular intensity that wrings every ounce of meaning from Fosse's choreography. Fosse himself joins her for the delectable "Who's Got the Pain," an essentially meaningless diversion in terms of plot, but a killer in terms of entertainment. Verdon's voice is less impressive than her dancing, but she possesses a sense of musical line and phrasing that makes up for any technical shortcomings. Her comedic timing is wonderful, making her a good foil for Ray Walston. Unfortunately, Tab Hunter is dull, and the film's direction is weak. This is one of the era's most stage-bound musicals, but the exceptions are the musical numbers. Fosse makes better use of the camera than the directors, and even the more static ones are made vibrant by the choreography. If these early dance routines lack the overt eroticism of later Fosse efforts, they still sizzle. The score, while not exceptional, has quite a few satisfying songs, including the popular "Whatever Lola Wants" and "Heart," as well as the less-recognizable "A Little Brains, A Little Talent." Not the home run it was on-stage, Damn Yankees is nonetheless a good solid double.
Damn Yankees on AllMovie
Damn Yankees (1958)
