White Christmas

Movie Details:

Cast & Characters:

• Bing Crosby as Bob Wallace
• Danny Kaye as Phil Davis
• Rosemary Clooney as Betty Haynes
• Vera-Ellen as Judy Haynes
• Dean Jagger as Major General Tom Waverly
• Mary Wickes as Emma Allen
• Johnny Grant as Ed Harrison
• John Brascia as John/Johnny, Judy Haynes’ dance partner
• Anne Whitfield as Susan Waverly
• Percy Helton as Train conductor
• I. Stanford Jolley as Railroad stationmaster
• Barrie Chase as Doris Lenz
• George Chakiris as Betty Haynes’ background dancer
• Sig Ruman as Landlord
• Grady Sutton as General’s guest
• Herb Vigran as Novello
• Leighton Noble as Novello’s (Florida) bandleader (uncredited)
• Dick Stabile as Carousel Club bandleader (uncredited)

Storyline:

Two talented song-and-dance men team up after the war to become one of the hottest acts in show business. In time they befriend and become romantically involved with the beautiful Haynes sisters who comprise a sister act.

About White Christmas Movie:

White Christmas is an American musical film directed by Michael Curtiz, featuring a star-studded cast that includes Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, and Vera-Ellen. The film is notable for its Technicolor presentation and features the songs of Irving Berlin, including a new rendition of the iconic title song “White Christmas,” which was originally introduced by Crosby in the 1942 film Holiday Inn.

Plot Summary

Set against the backdrop of post-World War II America, the story follows two former Army buddies, Captain Bob Wallace (Bing Crosby) and Private Phil Davis (Danny Kaye), who become a successful song-and-dance team. After the war, they team up with a sister act, Betty and Judy Haynes (Clooney and Vera-Ellen), to perform at a Vermont inn owned by their former commanding officer, Major General Thomas F. Waverly (Dean Jagger).

As they arrive at the inn, they discover that it is struggling due to a lack of snow, which has kept guests away. Determined to help their old general, Bob and Phil decide to put on a big Christmas show to attract visitors. Romantic tensions develop as Bob falls for Betty while Phil pursues Judy. The plot unfolds with comedic misunderstandings and heartfelt moments as the characters work together to save the inn and honor their general.

Production Notes

White Christmas was produced and distributed by Paramount Pictures and was the first film released in VistaVision, a widescreen format developed by Paramount that allowed for higher quality images. The film’s production involved extensive musical numbers and choreography, showcasing the talents of its lead actors.

Reception

The film premiered on October 14, 1954, to mixed reviews but proved to be a commercial success, grossing over $30 million at the box office, making it one of the highest-grossing films of the year. Critics praised its musical performances and nostalgic charm, although some noted its predictable romantic plot.

The song “Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep” was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Song. In addition to its success during its initial release, White Christmas has become a beloved holiday classic over the years.

Legacy

White Christmas is celebrated for its heartwarming story, memorable musical numbers, and vibrant performances. It remains a staple of holiday cinema and has been recognized as one of the greatest Christmas films of all time. The film’s enduring popularity is reflected in its annual screenings during the holiday season and its influence on subsequent Christmas-themed productions.

Budget & Box Office Collection: