Shall We Dance

Shall We Dance is a classic 1937 American musical comedy film directed by Mark Sandrich. It marks the seventh collaboration between the legendary dance duo, Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. The film also features a supporting cast that includes Edward Everett Horton, Eric Blore, and Jerome Cowan. Astaire and Rogers' films of the 1930s are remembered for their remarkable song-and-dance routines as well as the romantic chemistry between the two leads, and Shall We Dance is no exception.

In the film, Fred Astaire plays the role of Petrov, a well-known Russian ballet dancer with a charming sense of humor, but he is truly an American named Pete Peters. Ginger Rogers plays Linda Keene, a talented performer, known for her beauty and strength of character. Edward Everett Horton portrays Jeffrey Baird, Linda's manager, who while encouraging her career, is also cautious about her professional choices.

The film explores the themes of mistaken identity, love, and the battle between ballet and tap dancing. The underlying essence of Shall We Dance revolves around Astaire's character trying to blend his love for tap dance with his established career in ballet, as well as his heartfelt pursuit of winning Rogers' character's love. The plot is imbued with humor, romance, as well as engaging dance showdowns.

One of the most successful and revered music composing duos, George Gershwin and his brother Ira Gershwin furnishes the film with lively, captivating tunes. Some of the songs, like "They Can't Take That Away from Me," "Slap That Bass," and the titular song "Shall We Dance," are now considered American Standards. The music intensifies the performance dynamics of the film, bridging the gap between comedy and romance effortlessly.

From a technical perspective, the film is notable for its innovative camera work and effective use of lighting that complements the fine details of dance performances. The set designs are grand and opulent, reflecting the golden age of Hollywood cinema. The film's wardrobe, curated specifically for Astaire and Rogers' characters, enhances their on-screen presence and amicably compliments the dance sequences.

Rogers' playing Keene showcases her acting prowess, embracing romance and comedy with equal finesse. Astaire, as Petrov, has a certain charisma and sophisticated charm that is both engaging and entertaining. The chemistry between Astaire and Rogers' is an undeniable highlight of this film. Their dance sequences are intricately choreographed, remarking on their perfection and seamless execution. Their romantic dance duets primarily focus not only on their technical skills but also on their ability to portray emotion.

As an experience, Shall We Dance will transport you back to the golden era of Hollywood, where top hats were synonymous with style, where the strains of songful melody were deeply comforting, and where dance sequences were exquisitely choreographed to exhibit elegance and panache. The film provides not only an immersive viewing experience but a slice of cinema history, exhibiting the ethos and nuances of the 1930s American movie scene.

At its core, Shall We Dance captures the cordial contrast between two kinds of dance forms, fused with a charming love-story narrative, underscored by the timeless musical score from the Gershwin brothers. Meanwhile, the supporting cast, including Edward Everett Horton as the manager, provides a comic relief, complementing the romantic narrative while creating a well-rounded ensemble.

In conclusion, Shall We Dance is a classic piece of American cinema, which shares an engaging storyline embedded with humor, music, dance, and romance. It remains historically significant for the unforgettable partnership of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, the heartwarming music of the Gershwin Brothers, and its lavish production designs. Moreover, it holds a universal appeal that transcends time, assuring a delightful watch to audiences of all ages. Whether you are a fan of classic Hollywood cinema, or ballet or tap dance, the 1937 masterpiece Shall We Dance is not to be missed.