Watch Somebody Loves Me

Somebody Loves Me is a 1952 biographical musical drama film that explores the life of the legendary composer George Gershwin. The film stars Betty Hutton in the lead role of the celebrated Broadway star and singer, Gertrude Lawrence. The movie follows the life and career of George Gershwin, showcasing his remarkable talent as a composer and musician. The film opens with George (played by Ralph Meeker) performing his hit song "Rhapsody in Blue" at a sold-out concert in New York City. From there, the film takes us back to George's humble beginnings as a young boy growing up in New York City, where he learns to play the piano by ear and displays a natural ability for music.

As George grows older, he becomes increasingly passionate about pursuing a career in music and begins composing his own songs. During this time, he meets and falls in love with Gertrude Lawrence (Betty Hutton), a successful actress and singer on Broadway. Despite Gertrude's reservations about getting involved with someone as focused on his career as George, the two quickly become a couple and work together on several successful productions.

However, as George's career skyrockets, he struggles to balance his work with his personal life, which ultimately takes a toll on his relationship with Gertrude. Along the way, he meets a host of colorful characters, including his overbearing mother (played by Rosemary DeCamp) and his supportive brother Ira (Robert Keith), who becomes his frequent collaborator.

Throughout the film, the audience is treated to several of Gershwin's most famous works, including "Summertime," "Embraceable You," "But Not For Me," and "Someone to Watch Over Me." The music is deftly woven into the narrative, providing insight into Gershwin's creativity and working methods.

Arguably the most notable aspect of Somebody Loves Me, however, is Betty Hutton's performance as Gertrude Lawrence. Hutton brings a raw energy and intensity to the role, showcasing both Lawrence's talent for performing and her fiery personality. Her chemistry with Meeker's George Gershwin is palpable, highlighting the complex dynamics of their relationship.

The film also explores some of the darker aspects of Gershwin's life, including his struggles with depression and exhaustion, and hints at the possibility that Lawrence suffered from alcoholism. This gives the movie a depth and complexity that elevates it above other musical biopics of the era.

Overall, Somebody Loves Me is a well-crafted musical biography that cleverly weaves together the various threads of George Gershwin's life and work. With excellent performances, stunning music, and a compelling storyline, it remains a classic of the genre to this day.