: Released during World War II, the film's focus on a stable, joyous past served as a cathartic escape for audiences missing loved ones serving abroad.
: The narrative is largely viewed through the eyes of teenagers Esther (Judy Garland) and young Tootie (Margaret O'Brien), whose world revolves around community and simple romantic aspirations. 2. Innovation in the Musical Genre
Meet Me in St. Louis is a 1944 MGM musical based on Sally Benson's semi-autobiographical short stories, "5135 Kensington," originally published in The New Yorker. Set in 1903, it follows the Smith family over the course of a year as they anticipate the upcoming 1904 World's Fair .