Tag Archives: Astaire

Shall We Dance (1937)

In the classic Fred Astaire/Ginger Rogers film “Shall We Dance,” Astaire stars as Peter P. Peters, an American hoofer who has been masquerading as a Russian ballet star named Petrov. Having built up a fairly decent following for himself in Europe, he’s tired of the ballet scene and wants to do something different. Jeffrey, owner of the ballet troupe, is rather dismayed when he finds Peter tap dancing. Star of the stage Linda Keene (Ginger Rogers) has been touring Europe as well and it’s time for her to return to the States. The ballet troupe is sailing as well, and … Continue reading →

Silk Stockings (1957)

This is going to be another flippy-floppy review. On the one hand, “Silk Stockings” stars Fred Astaire and Cyd Charisse, so we know we’re in for some great dancing. On the other hand . . . well, I’ll tell you about it as we go. Astaire stars as Steve Canfield, producer of a Hollywood version of “War and Peace.” He has commissioned Russian composer Boroff to write the score, but now that Boroff is in Paris, where the filming will be done, he doesn’t want to go back to Russia. The Soviets send over three agents to investigate, and after … Continue reading →

Royal Wedding (1951)

“Royal Wedding,” starring Fred Astaire and Jane Powell, featured some of the most advanced special effects seen in Hollywood up to that point. I’ll fill you in on the details throughout the review. Tom and Ellen Bowen (Astaire, Powell) are a brother/sister dance team who have made quite a name for themselves on the New York circuit. Their next engagement will take them to London, where they will play their show during the same time span as a royal wedding, and they’re delighted to be a part of those festivities. There’s just one fly in the ointment – Ellen has … Continue reading →