Watch The Pajama Game

The Pajama Game is a delightful musical romantic comedy released in 1957. Based on the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical of the same name, the movie boasts an all-star cast, including Doris Day, John Raitt, and Carol Haney. Set in a pajama factory in Iowa, the movie tells the story of labor unrest among the workers who are demanding a pay raise of seven and a half cents an hour. The management, on the other hand, insists that they cannot afford to give them any more money. As the impasse continues, the workers threaten to go on strike, putting both the factory's output and the owners' profits in jeopardy.

Amidst all this drama, a love story blossoms between the factory's head of personnel, Sid Sorokin (John Raitt), and the union leader's top-notch negotiator, Kathie Moffat (Doris Day). The problem, however, is that Sid is working for the management, and Kathie is leading the workers' cause, making their romance seemingly impossible.

Adding to the characters' troubles is the presence of the seductive and manipulative Gladys (Carol Haney). Gladys is the factory's sexy bookkeeper and Sid's ex-lover, who uses her charms to try and keep Sid under her thumb.

The movie features some outstanding musical numbers that are still remembered today. The standout is certainly the lively and upbeat "Steam Heat" number choreographed by the legendary Bob Fosse. Carol Haney's mesmerizing and seductive dance in the number is nothing short of captivating.

Other notable musical numbers include "Racing with the Clock," "Once a Year Day," and "Hurry, Hurry!," which showcase the cast's impressive singing, acting, and dancing talents. The toe-tapping melodies and soaring vocals will undoubtedly leave the audience humming the tunes long after the credits roll.

The Pajama Game is a perfect example of the colorful and lively movie musicals that dominated Hollywood in the 1950s. Director George Abbott and choreographer Bob Fosse masterfully bring the stage production to the big screen, adding a sense of grandeur and spectacle that was not possible in the theatre.

The movie's script, based on the book by George Abbott and Richard Bissell, is full of witty and humorous dialogue, the chemistry between the lead actors, and their ability to bring out the comedic elements of their roles make for a thoroughly enjoyable viewing experience.

Doris Day and John Raitt are in fine form, bringing their talents to the forefront with their perfect harmony and stunning vocals. Their on-screen portrayal of a couple in love is sweet and sincere, and their stirring rendition of "There Once Was a Man" is enough to make anyone's heart skip a beat.

Carol Haney, who tragically died just a few years after the movie was released at 39, is unforgettable as the sultry Gladys. Her seductive dance in "Steam Heat" is a standout moment in an already stellar production that marked one of the turning points in the history of Hollywood musicals.

In conclusion, The Pajama Game is a delightful and charming musical comedy that showcases some of Hollywood's finest talents. With its memorable music, remarkable performances, and delightful script, it is a movie that will no doubt continue to entertain audiences for years to come.

The Pajama Game is a 1957 music movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 49 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.