Shirley Jones in OKLAHOMA!

One of Shirley's best roles was in Oklahoma as Laurey Williams. It was her film debut. And what a debut it is. Her character Laurie exudes that girl next door appeal wonderfully as she is unbelievably beautiful. Laurie is so nice and sweet that you can't but help fall in love with her. She has two suitors vying for her affection in Curly (played by Gordon MacRae) and Jud (played by Rod Steiger...yes Rod Steiger). Can I say that when Shirley Jones came onto the film scene with this gorgeous musical, she brought with her a breath of fresh air. So charming and beautiful and sexy. And really talented. Many might say the 50's belonged to blonde bomshells like Monroe and Jayne Mansfield, but give me Shirley anytime. Shirley was so good in this Rodgers and Hammerstein musical film adaptation that she was quickly brought back the following year with MacRae for Carousel. If you have never seen Oklahoma!, check it out. It is one of the best musicals ever to grace the silver screen. Featuring such standout musical numbers like Oh What A Beautiful Day and The Surrey With The Fringe on Top. Check out the clip below.

FILM: B+
SHIRLEY'S PERFORMANCE: A