Its song-and-dance numbers (also featuring Cyd Charisse, Jack Buchanan and Nanette Fabray) are first-rate, and the script's mickey-taking humour is urbane.

Sorry, the beloved "Singin' in the Rain" isn't the finest of the legendary MGM musicals. "The Band Wagon'' has better music, better dances, better direction, more lavish sets and costumes and a wittier script (by the same writers).

A love song for the narcissistic, and theater people are sure to eat up the film, commentary, extras, and first rate DVD packaging.

... one of the most enjoyable spoofs of show-biz and the Great White Way to come out of Hollywood.