There's No Business Like Show Business follows the story of the Donahue family, who are a popular vaudeville act. The father, Terry (played by Ethel Merman), is the troupe's tough and demanding leader, while the mother, Molly (played by Dan Dailey), plays the accordion. Their three children also perform in the act, with Steve (played by Johnnie Ray) singing and dancing, Katy (played by Mitzi Gaynor) tap-dancing, and Tim (played by Donald O'Connor) providing comic relief.
One day, Tim meets Vicky (played by Marilyn Monroe), a hat-check girl at a nightclub. He falls in love with her and the two begin a romantic relationship, much to the disapproval of Terry and Molly. As the family drama unfolds, the Donahues begin to struggle professionally and personally, with jealousy, infighting, and alcoholism threatening to tear them apart.
Despite their challenges, the family continues to perform, with standout musical numbers including "Heat Wave" and "Alexander's Ragtime Band." The film climaxes with a poignant rendition of the titular song, "There's No Business Like Show Business," as the Donahues realize that, despite their struggles, they are happiest when they are performing together.
There's No Business Like Show Business was released in 1954 and was directed by Walter Lang. Featuring an all-star cast and catchy tunes by Irving Berlin, the film is considered a classic of the Golden Age of Hollywood musicals.
