That Was Entertainment

Discover the captivating evolution of musical films with "That Was Entertainment" by Bernard F. Dick. Published by the University Press of Mississippi in 2018, this engaging hardback spans 312 pages, offering a detailed exploration of the MGM musical genre from its inception with "The Broadway Melody" in 1929 through its peak popularity in the 1940s and 1950s, ultimately tracing its decline in the 1960s.

Bernard F. Dick meticulously reconstructs the remarkable journey of Arthur Freed, the visionary behind MGM's musical department, whose innovative approach set a benchmark for musicals across the film industry. This book is an essential read for film enthusiasts and scholars alike, providing insightful history and critical analysis of one of cinema's most beloved genres. Dive into the world of musical films and experience the magic that made it a staple of American entertainment.