I'd like to point out just how great Dolores Gray is in her role as TV hostess and pitch-woman Madeline Bradville. Her manic energy and charm steal every scene she is in. Miss Gray was one of the most talented female vocalists of the mid-20th century. For those who appreciate other vocalists such as Julie London, check out Miss Gray's album "Warm Brandy" (recently reissued on CD) for a real treat.
"It's Always Fair Weather" also boasts some of the greatest dance numbers of any musical. Sure, Cyd Charisse and Gene Kelly are tops, but Dan Dailey and Michael Kidd do just fine themselves at keeping up in the dance scenes. And Dolores Gray's "Thanks, but No Thanks" number rivals Marilyn Monroe's "Diamonds are a Girl's Best Friend" number from "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes". Ironically, Miss Gray was called upon to provide the vocals for Marilyn Monroe when contractual restrictions prevented her from singing on her own recordings.
Dailey and Charisse give the stand-out acting performances here; Kelly does an adequate job with acting (better than he does with his thin, reedy warble), but then, no-one else can dance like him. "It's Always Fair Weather" will never have the broad appeal or accessibility of "Singin' in the Rain" or "An American in Paris", as it's plot is a bit darker, but if you enjoy mid-century musicals, it's a little gem.