Opened: November 4, 1954

Directed by: Richard Thorpe

Starring: Jane Powell, Edmund Purdom, Debbie Reynolds, Vic Damone, Louis Calhern, Linda Christian, Evelyn Varden, Ray Collins, Carl Benton Reid, Howard Wendell, Virginia Gibson, Henry Nakamura, Nancy Kilgas, Dolores Starr, Jane Fischer, Cecile Rogers, Kathleen Freeman, Richard Sabre & Steve Reeves

Though charming, Athena is a non-sensical musical film with a thin plot and abrupt ending.

Conservative lawyer Adam Shaw (Edmund Purdom) meets Athena Mulvain (Jane Powell), and she decides that they’re going to get married despite their major differences. Athena meets Johnny Nyle (Vic Damone) at Adam’s house and decides he’s perfect for her sister Minerva (Debbie Reynolds).

Powell gives her all to the eccentric Athena but putting her alongside the rigid Purdom makes for an awkward pairing. Reynolds and Damone’s acting styles mesh better together.

Unfortunately, there aren’t many memorable musical numbers in the film. Reynolds gets a chance to play her quirky comedy in one song, but that’s the extent of memorability. The most striking part of the film is the often scantily clad (especially for that time) body builders.

Final say: Not written in the stars. ★★☆☆☆