Best Original Song - 1954

"The High and the Mighty" from The High and the Mighty sung by Angela Lansbury


Movie Synopsis: When a commercial airliner develops engine problems on a trans-Pacific flight and the pilot loses his nerve, it is up to the washed-up co-pilot to bring the plane in safely.


Does it appear in the movie (i.e. other than the end credits)? I don't know.
Is it important to the plot? For some reason, I doubt it.
Is it pleasing to the ear? C-.

"The Man That Got Away" from A Star is Born sung by Judy Garland


Movie Synopsis: A movie star helps a young singer/actress find fame, even as age and alcoholism send his own career into a downward spiral.


Does it appear in the movie (i.e. other than the end credits)? Yes.
Is it important to the plot? Yes...but I don't know how.
Is it pleasing to the ear? C+.

"Hold My Hand" from Susan Slept Here sung by Don Cornell


Movie Synopsis: A struggling Hollywood scriptwriter who takes care of a juvenile delinquent.


Does it appear in the movie (i.e. other than the end credits)? Yes.
Is it important to the plot? Yes, it shows the teenage girl's immaturity.
Is it pleasing to the ear? C.

"Three Coins in the Fountain" from Three Coins in the Fountain 


Movie Synopsis: Three American roommates working in Italy wish for the man of their dreams after throwing coins into Rome's magnificent Trevi Fountain.


Does it appear in the movie (i.e. other than the end credits)? I don't know.
Is it important to the plot? Uhh...
Is it pleasing to the ear? C.

"Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep" from White Christmas sung by Bing Crosby


Movie Synopsis: A successful song-and-dance team become romantically involved with a sister act and team up to save the failing Vermont inn of their former commanding general.


Does it appear in the movie (i.e. other than the end credits)? Yes.
Is it important to the plot? It brings Bing Crosby and Rosemary Clooney closer romantically.
Is it pleasing to the ear? Eh...C.

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So what won?

"Three Coins in the Fountain" from Three Coins in the Fountain

What would I have voted for?

"The Man That Got Away" from A Star is Born. It's the best sung.

Analysis
By my grades, this year was officially average. A sucky, average year. All the songs sound similar and are equally forgettable. If it weren't for Frank Sinatra's rendition of "Three Coins" then everyone would forget that song to.