Rainbow: The Judy Garland Story

Rainbow: The Judy Garland Story is a 1978 American biographical film based on the life of the legendary actress and singer, Judy Garland. Directed by British director Jackie Cooper, the film stars Andrea McArdle, Don Murray, and Michael Parks.

The story begins with Judy Garland's childhood as Frances Gumm and follows her as she rises to fame in Hollywood. The film takes the audience through the ups and downs of her life, including her turbulent relationships, addiction, and emotional struggles.

Andrea McArdle portrays the adult Judy Garland with great depth and vulnerability, capturing both her magnetic energy on stage and her tumultuous off-stage life. Don Murray plays Garland's third husband, Sid Luft, who is portrayed as the one who helps Garland deal with her addiction and personal problems. Michael Parks plays Garland's second husband, Vincente Minnelli.

The film does an excellent job of capturing the essence of Judy Garland, portraying her as a multi-talented artist who was plagued by personal demons. The viewers get a glimpse into her early years as a child actress, her struggles with addiction and marital problems, and her eventual death due to an overdose in the age of 47.

The film's pacing is excellent, deftly weaving together Garland's musical performances with her personal struggles. The musical numbers are some of the most memorable moments in the film, showcasing McArdle's vocal prowess and capturing the essence of Garland's performances.

The film also does an excellent job of portraying the women in Garland's life, including her mother played by Meg Foster, who is depicted as a domineering figure who pushed her daughter into showbiz from an early age. Lola Albright plays Garland's close friend and confidante, who is there for her during some of the most difficult times in her life.

Overall, Rainbow: The Judy Garland Story is a powerful biopic that portrays a complex and emotionally-driven artist who had a profound impact on Hollywood and the entertainment industry as a whole. With excellent performances by the cast, a great script, and memorable musical numbers, this film is a must-watch for fans of Judy Garland and classic Hollywood cinema.