Watch Words And Music

Words and Music is a musical biopic that tells the story of the songwriting partnership between Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart. The film explores their professional relationship, as well as their personal lives and struggles. Mickey Rooney stars as Lorenz Hart, an introspective and sensitive lyricist who struggles with alcoholism and his own insecurities. Tom Drake plays Richard Rodgers, the composed and ambitious composer who works tirelessly to perfect their songs. June Allyson plays Hart's love interest, a fictional character named Peggy.

The film is structured as a series of flashbacks, with an older Rodgers and Hart (played by William Post Jr. and Perry Como, respectively) reminiscing about their past successes and failures. The flashbacks span from their early days as struggling musicians to their meteoric rise to fame during the 1920s and 1930s.

Throughout the film, the audience is treated to performances of some of Rodgers and Hart's most beloved songs, including "The Lady is a Tramp", "My Funny Valentine", and "Blue Moon". The musical numbers are impressively staged, with large ensembles and elaborate sets that evoke the glamour of Broadway in the early half of the 20th century.

While the musical sequences are undoubtedly the highlight of the film, Words and Music also offers a nuanced exploration of Rodgers and Hart's creative process, as well as their complex personalities. Rooney delivers a standout performance as Hart, imbuing the character with a mix of vulnerability and biting humor. Drake is equally strong as Rodgers, bringing a stoic determination to the role.

One of the film's most poignant moments comes when Hart, struggling with alcoholism and failing health, realizes that their partnership is coming to an end. Drake delivers a moving speech in which Rodgers acknowledges the extent to which he has relied on Hart's talent over the years, declaring that "the words are the music, and the music is the words".

The film ends on a bittersweet note, with Rodgers and Hart parting ways due to Hart's worsening health. While their partnership may have been tumultuous at times, the film celebrates the enduring legacy of their music and their enduring impact on the American musical theater.

Words And Music is a 1948 drama with a runtime of 2 hours. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4.