Calamity Jane, under the direction of David Butler and with a script by James O'Hanlon, features performances from Doris Day, Howard Keel, Allyn Ann McLerie, Phillip Carey & Dick Wesson. The film’s music is composed by Sammy Fain, with lyrics penned by Paul Francis Webster. Produced by Warner Brothers, it seems to have been created in reaction to the popularity of MGM's Annie Get Your Gun from 1950—a production that also starred Keel. The story draws loosely from the life of Wild West figure Calamity Jane (Day) and focuses on the connection between Wild Bill Hickok (Keel) and her. It’s probably important to state upfront that this isn't a straightforward biography of Martha Jane Cannary Burke, who was known as Calamity Jane; instead, it’s more like an entertaining musical comedy using her story. Because the narrative and direction are fairly simple, the film will likely appeal most to people who enjoy musicals. And on that front, it really shines, thanks to the lively performances from Day and Keel, along with a number of wonderful songs including the Oscar-winning "Secret Love," where Day is radiant and singing at her best. The movie also deserves credit for allowing Day to portray a character different from her usual role as the sweet, innocent girl—it was apparently one of her favorite parts. She’s able to be spirited and bold while still retaining that charming quality that made her so popular throughout her career. The way it handles gender roles is quite funny without being overly sentimental, and director Butler seems not to have received enough recognition for this aspect. Wilfred M. Cline's beautiful color photography also adds to the film’s lightheartedness. Now considered a feminist fantasy with an LGBTQ+ audience drawn to "Secret Love," there’s no denying that the movie is very much a Hollywood production—the characters are so exaggerated they almost seem like they could pop off the screen. But if you can overlook its small imperfections, this film will surely brighten even the gloomiest days. 7.5/10

Source on TMDB