Song and dance is always a primary focus in Gene Kelly movies, and An American in Paris is no exception. Everywhere possible, there is a song and dance number to keep the viewer on their toes and enjoying this lighthearted comedy. We become entranced by the characters and their lives while they relate to us using dialogue, song, and dance.

Unlike many Gene Kelly movies, however, this film gives prominence to ballet numbers. Although Singin' in the Rain and other films may have one short ballet section, An American in Paris has several. From the time we hear about Lise from Henri, and she twirls across our screen, to the end when Jerry imagines dancing in a ballet across Paris, chasing Lise, a ballet scene is never long in appearing.

Because of the ballet scenes and the other song and dance numbers, An American...