Duchess of Idaho

Of the Esther Williams films seen so far, which is a vast majority of them, 'Duchess of Idaho' stands out as one of the best ones. As well as having one of her best performances.

Its only real faults are the story, which is very flimsy and with the odd implausible moment, and the waste of Mel Torme, a very talented performer with a beautiful voice with very little to do which is pretty shameful.

Conversely, Williams is captivating in a role that suits her perfectly, one of her best performances as aforementioned without a shadow of a doubt.

She is well supported by an appealing John Lund, charming Paula Raymond and a more at ease than usual Van Johnson, and she shares great chemistry with all three. 'Duchess of Idaho' is significant for being the last film of Eleanor Powell, who dances up a storm, while Lena Horne sings sublimely in one of the film's better songs.

'Duchess of Idaho' is shot in glorious Technicolor and sumptuously designed (the costumes are of the usual MGM glamour), while the direction goes at a bright and breezy pace and the film is full of jolly fun and emotive charm. The songs are pleasant and lively, and choreographed with grace and enthusiasm, and the script is amusing.

In summary, very entertaining and well done. Not a great film, but a very good one. 8/10 Bethany Cox