The Pajama Game - 4 stars out of 10

The Pajama Game - 4 stars out of 10

I like the catchy tunes to "The Pajama Game," but it's a struggle to get past that overwhelming sensation of "This is so dumb..."  A common excuse is that the storyline is dated but it's more than that.  The characters come off as really dorky and I failed to form a connection with any of them.  Remember that this is solely regarding the 1957 film version and not the show in general.  Many of my disappointments were a result of seeing particular musical numbers done well in a live performance, much better than in this film version.  It is hard to believe that with all of these Hollywood resources, this film could fall so far short of its potential.  It just feels hastily thrown together.  I love Doris Day but this is far from her finest role.  The romantic chemistry between the main characters feels forced and ingenuine.  Reta Shaw is a classic character actress and her performance of "I'll Never Be Jealous Again" with Eddie Foy Jr. really shines, becoming a high point for the film.  But then the show-stopping numbers like "Steam Heat" and "Hernando's Hideaway" are just "blah."  If you want to enjoy "The Pajama Game," seek out a quality live performance because this film will remove your desire to ever see it again.  Sorry, Doris - I still love you!