What happens when three guys who were GI buddies in World War II (see the exuberant photo) reunite 10 years later?

In a typical musical, the fun would be nonstop, but It’s Always Fair Weather isn’t a typical musical. In Betty Comden and Adolph Green’s very smart screenplay, the three men quickly learn that their friendship has fizzled; it seems that life has gotten in the way. There’s fun to be had, of course (example: Gene Kelly’s famous tap dance on roller skates!), but this is that rare MGM musical with a cynical streak.

It’s also a satire on mindless, ego-driven television – we might call it MGM’s revenge on the relatively new medium-in-a-box that was stealing audiences away from movie theaters in droves. Playing an obnoxious TV host, Broadway’s Dolores Gray is terrific, and in fact, all the performances are spot-on. A special nod to Michael Kidd, by then a major choreographer for both stage and screen (Guys and Dolls, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers), who made his only appearance on film as actor and dancer.

Over the years, this musical has won its deserved status, says historian Jeanine Basinger, of “minor classic.” Which means you need to see it and join Arthur Fergenson and me for the discussion on January 4.