Rediscovering 'Singin' in the Rain': The Timeless Brilliance of "Make 'Em Laugh" Dance Number

The world of classic cinema has gifted audiences numerous unforgettable moments, and the dance number "Make 'Em Laugh" from the iconic film "Singin' in the Rain" stands tall among them. The Reddit video titled "I wonder if Raygun was a fan of Singin' in the Rain?" reignited the admiration for this legendary performance.

"Make 'Em Laugh" features the remarkable talents of Donald O'Connor, whose comedic prowess and athletic dancing left an indelible mark on viewers. One Reddit user aptly noted, "Unironically, this dance number is remarkable. 'Make 'Em Laugh' is the name and it is from 'Singin' in the Rain'. Finally watched it about a year ago, and this dude straight up steals the show. Also, as someone over 30, I can't even imagine how he must've felt the next day (especially considering they probably did many takes that day)."

The performance is a masterclass in combining humor with physicality, a feat that few can achieve without appearing over-the-top or forced. As another commenter pointed out, "There's a difference between trying to be goofy and nailing it, and trying to be taken seriously and being outted as a goofball." O'Connor's ability to make every move seem effortless, despite the evident physical toll, is a testament to his exceptional talent.

Interestingly, comparisons were made to modern dance forms, with one user jesting, "looks like olympic breakdancing," while another humorously quipped, "Just give her a fortnite skin and dance. That's her priority this whole time." This juxtaposition highlights the timeless appeal of O'Connor's performance, transcending eras and remaining relevant even today.

Gene Kelly, another luminary from "Singin' in the Rain," was also mentioned in the discussion, with one user declaring, "Gene Kelly was a fabulous dancer and actor." The collaboration between Kelly and O'Connor in the film created a synergy that continues to captivate audiences.

In a lighter vein, some comments brought a touch of humor to the discussion. "Homer looking for what Bart wrote on the back of his head 😂" and "Cocaine's a helluva drug" added a contemporary and playful twist to the appreciation of this classic scene.

"Make 'Em Laugh" not only showcased O'Connor's talents but also inspired future generations. Reflecting on the nostalgia, one user shared, "I danced like this as a kid and my babysitter loved it." The joy and laughter that this performance brought to many lives are a testament to its enduring legacy.

For those who have yet to experience the magic of "Singin' in the Rain," this Reddit video serves as a wonderful reminder of the brilliance that classic cinema holds. As one commenter fittingly summed it up, "Make 'em Laugh f***ing rules, how dare you." Indeed, the charm and wit of Donald O'Connor's performance continue to resonate, making "Make 'Em Laugh" a timeless treasure in the world of entertainment.