I finally saw Meet Me in St. Louis and it was not what I expected. I went through quite a journey while watching it: first I was resistant to the Little Women-esque set up, then I was amused by the trolley song, then entertained by Tootie's whole deal, and then before I knew it I was weeping as Judy Garland sang "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas." Arthur Freed, you absolute genius, why did I ever doubt you.

Note: This viewing was part of my ongoing exploration of classic Hollywood musicals. Next on my watchlist: more Vincente Minnelli films, particularly his other collaborations with Judy Garland.