It's Judy's show all the way even if to paraphrase one of her most famous numbers she been through the mill. Surely not looking her best, although here and there she manages to look at least chic, she is still wonderfully compelling. One of the more interesting aspects of her performance is her entrance preparation
before her first musical number where it seems we see a glimpse of the real Judy. The story itself is as old as the hills but it's filled with exceptional talent, Aline MacMahon as a loyal companion, Jack Klugman as Judy's manager and Dirk Borgarde as the stuffy, conflicted but ultimately kind hearted love interest. There is an beautiful performance of "It Never Was You" done in one long slow approach take and even though the final number and title tune isn't the best song she's ever sung Judy punches it across with breathtaking flair making it a fitting close to a storied career. Interesting side notes to look for are the unbilled appearances of Judy's kids, Lorna and Joey Luft, in background of the ferry sequence and an aerial view of 60's London. By all accounts a horror show to make this is still an enjoyable experience particularly if you're a Judy fan.
March 26, 2007
