On the Town
Seen it?1949 | 98 min | Comedy, Romance
Sunday Safe BetWhy it’s a Sunday Safe Bet
Critics loved it (94% on Rotten Tomatoes). A safe bet when you want something reliable.
Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.Is it for you?
- Who'll love it
- Made for romantics and anyone who wants a laugh. If you loved Avanti! or Barefoot in the Park, start here. Critics rate it higher than audiences do, so it rewards patience more than it chases thrills.
- The mood
- Light and funny, romantic.
- The pace
- Breezy, at 1 hr 38 min.
- What might put you off
- Made in 1949: an older pace and style.
- Audiences were cooler on it than critics.
Three sailors wreak havoc as they search for love during a whirlwind 24-hour leave in New York City.
How it earned its rating
- CriticsVery strong
94% on Rotten Tomatoes
- AudiencesSolid
7.0 out of 10
- AwardsSolid
Won 1 Oscar: Best Original Musical Score.
- Box office & staying powerSolid
$4 million worldwide on a $2 million budget; still draws a steady audience long after release
- Buzz & cultural impactSolid
About 73K people sought it out in the past year
Trailer
More like this
Hello, Dolly! Sunday Safe BetAlso from director Gene Kelly: a musical romantic comedy, and a safe bet for a quiet night.
The Band Wagon Sunday Safe BetAnother musical romantic comedy, and a safe bet for a quiet night.
Avanti!
Saturday SpecialAnother musical romantic comedy that's easy to miss.
Barefoot in the Park Saturday SpecialAnother musical romantic comedy, and a Saturday Special.
Everyone Says I Love You Sunday Safe BetAnother musical romantic comedy, and a safe bet for a quiet night.
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Cast & crew
Directed by Gene Kelly, Stanley Donen
- Gene KellyGabey
- Frank SinatraChip
- Betty GarrettBrunhilde Esterhazy
- Ann MillerClaire Huddesen
- Jules MunshinOzzie
- Vera-EllenIvy Smith
- Florence BatesMadame Dilyovska
- Alice PearceLucy Schmeeler
- George MeaderProfessor
- Murray AlperCab Company Owner (uncredited)