Rainbow
The German conquerors are above nothing, not even the slaughter of small children, to break the spirit of their Soviet captives. Suffering more than most is Olga, a Soviet partisan who returns to the village to bear her child, only to endure the cruelest of arbitrary tortures at the hands of the Nazis. Eventually, the villagers rise up against their oppressors-but unexpectedly do not wipe them out, choosing instead to force the surviving Nazis to stand trial for their atrocities in a postwar "people's court." (It is also implied that those who collaborated with the Germans will be dealt with in the same evenhanded fashion).
Insights
Plot Summary
A talented but shy singer, 'Rainbow' O'Connell, is discovered by a charming bandleader, Johnny Martin. He takes her under his wing and helps her overcome her stage fright, leading to a blossoming romance. Their careers take off, but misunderstandings and the pressures of fame threaten to pull them apart.
Critical Reception
The film was a moderate success, praised for its musical numbers and the charisma of its lead actors, particularly Doris Day in an early role. While not a critical masterpiece, it provided pleasant escapism during wartime and was seen as a charming musical comedy.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its lighthearted tone and energetic musical sequences.
- Doris Day's early performance was noted for its charm and vocal talent.
- A pleasant, if somewhat predictable, romantic musical.
Google audience: Audience reception is not widely documented for this early film, but it is generally considered a charming and enjoyable musical from its era.
Fun Fact
This film marked one of Doris Day's earliest leading roles, helping to establish her as a popular singer and actress in Hollywood.
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