‘THE PAJAMA GAME’: A COLORFUL AND CUTE COMEDY MUSICAL
A film with a popular star and lots of music, too, The Pajama Game isn’t what I expected but is still cute.
The Pajama Game (1957) Film Review
Taking a new job as superintendent of a pajama factory should be a good and relatively easy job for Sid Sorokin (John Raitt). He’s hired to keep the factory running smoothly which may also mean quieting the bothersome requests for a 7 ½ cent pay raise from the workers. The task ends up being a little more challenging that he would hope, especially when he meets the leader of the grievance committee.
Babe Williams (Doris Day) is spunky and completely devoted to her cause. She wants to see the workers win and succeed in their demands for a pay raise. Things get complicated when the heart suddenly gets involved…
From the 50s I had seen The Pajama Game years ago, but until last year, had not seen it a second time. It’s also a film that I’d forgotten was, well, this musical. The film barely takes time to breathe between numbers, which is more than a little annoying. I’m someone who likes to see films that actually allow for conversation, even musicals. So, as I watched this, I did find the numbers a little more annoying than beneficial, and honestly, some of them are a little odd. To be fair, I do think this is something common for most musical films.
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Regardless of my complaints, The Pajama Game is (objectively and subjectively) cute. There is lots of color and happiness and yes, even a bit of melodrama. Doris Day is fabulous in the lead, and this title is one of her more recognizable ones. She plays the role with class and ease. There are lots of funny supporting characters too which gives the musical even more character.
If you enjoy the musical genre or just something that will leave you with a wide smile and happy “feels” of good times, well, then this might be one to consider.
Stream, at publication, The Pajama Game on Prime Video; or find free on Plex or Tubi. You can also digitally purchase the film on rime Video.
Content: there really isn’t anything to note in this G-rated title. There is lots of kissing and an entire sequence has a man throwing knives and chasing someone because of jealousy (it’s all played as comedy).
