In the vibrant heart of New York City in 1950, Judy Garland found herself drawn to a late-night screening of Summer Stock. This was her third musical co-starring the legendary Gene Kelly, and it took place at a bustling Times Square theater. Imagine the scene: after the film wrapped up, Judy stepped out of the theater to an overwhelming roar of applause. Film expert David Fantle recounts the moment with vivid detail: “The cheering fans followed her all the way to her car. It must have been such a heartwarming experience for her, especially since she'd been away from the screen for over a year.”
Summer Stock: A Journey of Friendship and Collaboration
Summer Stock, famous for Judy’s electrifying performance in “C’mon, Get Happy,” might never have graced the big screen without the unwavering support of her dear friend Gene. Now, a captivating new book, C’mon, Get Happy: The Making of Summer Stock by Fantle and Tom Johnson, dives deep into the story behind the film and unveils fresh insights into the extraordinary friendship between Judy and Gene.
A Bond That Began on Broadway
Judy’s fascination with Gene began when she caught him singing and dancing in Pal Joey, a Broadway sensation that premiered in 1940. She was thoroughly impressed. “Even before anyone knew who he was, she recommended him to the studio,” Johnson reveals with admiration. Their paths officially crossed two years later when Gene made his movie debut alongside Judy in the 1942 film For Me and My Gal. On set, Judy took the novice under her wing, offering guidance and mentorship.
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Johnson emphasizes Judy’s humility regarding Gene’s success: “She never took credit for his achievements. She simply believed in his talent and thought he deserved a chance in the film industry. That kind of selflessness speaks volumes about her character.”
Off-Screen Adventures and Lifelong Friendship
Their professional partnership seamlessly translated into a cherished off-screen friendship. “They weren’t just colleagues; they were true friends,” Johnson shares enthusiastically. “During one of her short vacations in Montana, they went pub-crawling together. Judy also became a regular guest at the Beverly Hills home Gene shared with his first wife, Betsy.”
“She spent countless weekends there, playing volleyball and singing with them. This camaraderie continued throughout the '40s and well into the '50s,” Johnson adds, painting a vivid picture of their lively gatherings. Their friendship wasn’t just about work—it was a genuine connection that brought joy and support to both their lives.
Summer Stock: A Film Born from Friendship
Gene and Judy’s third movie together, Summer Stock, was initially conceived as a nostalgic throwback to reunite Judy with Mickey Rooney. “At first, everyone involved thought it was just a throwback,” Johnson explains. “Even Judy herself admitted that they all considered it a bit of a forgettable project.”
However, as production began, Judy was grappling with mounting personal challenges. Her marriage to Vincente Minnelli was crumbling, and her dependency on prescription drugs was taking a toll on her health, emotions, and even her weight, which visibly fluctuated throughout the film. Despite these hurdles, Gene, along with director Charles Walters and several other loyal friends at MGM, pledged to support her through the filming process. “Gene famously declared, ‘I don’t care if it takes a year. I will stay here and be here for her,’” Johnson recounts with admiration.
This act of generosity might come as a surprise to those familiar with Gene’s reputation as a perfectionist and demanding director. But Judy brought out a softer side in him. “She was someone who wouldn’t tolerate fools, and you couldn’t bully her,” Johnson explains. “With Judy, Gene was focused on uplifting her, reassuring her, and helping her believe that when it was all done, she would be incredible.”
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A Legacy of Love and Music
Summer Stock marked Judy’s final film with MGM, her cinematic home for 15 years. It was also her last collaboration with Gene and gifted her one of her most iconic songs, “C’mon, Get Happy.” “Both Gene and Judy believed that the final product, particularly the musical numbers, were truly exceptional,” Johnson shares. “The friendship and mutual respect between them elevated the film far beyond anyone’s expectations. It’s a testament to the power of genuine camaraderie and love.”
