An American in Paris

Jerry Mulligan, portrayed by Gene Kelly, is a vibrant American expatriate residing in Paris, where he is determined to carve out a name for himself as a painter. His close friend Adam, played by Oscar Levant, is a struggling concert pianist who has a longstanding connection with a French singer named Henri Baurel, depicted by Georges Guétary. In this artistic hub, Jerry finds himself under the guardianship of a lonely society woman named Milo Roberts, brought to life by Nina Foch. While Milo provides support for Jerry’s ambitions, her interest in him goes beyond mere friendship, but Jerry remains completely unaware of her affections.

His heart, however, belongs to Lise, a captivating French girl portrayed by Leslie Caron, whom he encounters at a local restaurant. Lise also harbors feelings for Jerry, but she is entangled in a relationship with Henri, feeling a sense of obligation to him for what he did to save her family during the harrowing times of World War II.

The story reaches a turning point during a lively masked ball where guests don black-and-white costumes. It is here that Milo comes to the painful realization that Jerry does not share her feelings. Simultaneously, Jerry discovers Lise’s affection for him, yet is struck by the knowledge that she is set to marry Henri the very next day. The tension rises further when Henri, having overheard their conversation, drives Lise away. In a poignant moment, Jerry’s mind drifts into a daydream, envisioning a romantic escapade with Lise across the enchanting streets of Paris. However, his dreamy escape is abruptly interrupted by the honking of a car horn, signaling the return of Henri with Lise, pulling Jerry back into the complicated reality of their lives.

Last Updated: November 02, 2024 at 12:00