Meet Me in St. Louis (1944)

Meet Me in St. Louis is a warm, nostalgic musical-drama set in 1903 as the well-to-do Smith family counts down to the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair. Over the course of a year, the film follows the four Smith daughters—especially 17-year-old Esther—and their everyday joys, quarrels and romances as a sudden job transfer threatens to uproot them from the city and the fair they’ve been dreaming about. Watching the movie, you’ll experience a cozy slice-of-life story anchored by courtship and family tenderness: Esther’s slow-blooming romance with the new boy next door; little Tootie’s wide-eyed mischief; and the family’s candid, affectionate moments around holidays and household routines. The looming move to New York provides a bittersweet urgency that forces characters to grow, choose, and appreciate what they might lose. Visually and musically the film is a treat—lavish period production design, colorful costumes and lively musical numbers create an immersive turn-of-the-century atmosphere. Expect catchy, emotionally resonant songs (including the holiday standard that has become synonymous with the film), spirited choreography, and scenes that mix humor with genuine feeling. Overall, Meet Me in St. Louis offers a comforting, sentimental experience: a vivid period romance wrapped in family warmth, charming performances, and memorable music that leave you both smiling and a little wistful about the passing of time.

Actors: Judy Garland, Margaret O'Brien, Mary Astor

Director: Vincente Minnelli

Runtime: 113 min

Genres: Comedy, Drama, Family

7.0 /10 94 /100 7.5 /10 8.0 /10