Swing Time is a 1936 American musical comedy film directed by George Stevens for RKO. It is the sixth of ten films starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. The story follows a roguish gambler and dancer, "Lucky" Garnett, who is challenged to come up with $25,000 to prove he's worthy of his fiancee's hand. However, he falls in love with his dance partner in the process. The film is set mainly in New York City and features music by Jerome Kern and lyrics by Dorothy Fields. It is considered one of the duo's most charming and wonderfully choreographed films. The legendary dancing duo Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers are at the pinnacle of their art in this film, showcasing their virtuosic fusion of ballroom and tap dancing.
Plot
Swing Time is a title that refers to both a 1936 American musical comedy film and a 2016 novel by Zadie Smith. The film follows a gambler and dancer named "Lucky" Garnett, who falls in love with his dance partner while trying to prove himself worthy of his fiancee's hand. The film is set in New York City and features music by Jerome Kern and lyrics by Dorothy Fields. The novel is told from the perspective of an unnamed mixed-race woman, both of her younger years and her intense friendship with Tracey, another of the mixed-race girls living at the estate she's growing up at and of her being in her mid-30s and working for a fictitious international pop-star. The novel explores themes of women, privilege, identity, and history.
Trailer
Cast
- Fred Astaire as John "Lucky" Garnett
- Ginger Rogers as Penny Carroll
- Victor Moore as Pop Cardetti
- Helen Broderick as Mabel Anderson
- Eric Blore as Mr. Gordon
- Georges Metaxa as Ricardo Romero
- Betty Furness as Margaret Watson
- Margaret Watson as Mabel Anderson
Director: George Stevens
Writer: Erwin S. Gelsey, Howard Lindsay, Allan Scott, Dorothy Yost, Anthony Veiller, Rian James
Box Office Gross: $5,379
Genre: Musical, Comedy
Distributor: RKO Radio Pictures, Criterion Collection
Release Date (Theaters): Aug 28, 1936
Release Date (Streaming): Aug 18, 2008
Theme
The 1936 film Swing Time revolves around themes of love, dance, and the pursuit of success. It explores the challenges of romantic relationships, the art of dance, and the journey to prove oneself worthy. The film's narrative is driven by the passion and determination of the main characters, intertwined with the magic of music and dance.
Reception
The film was well-received by audiences and critics alike. It is considered one of the most successful and beloved films starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. The movie's captivating dance sequences, engaging storyline, and memorable music contributed to its enduring popularity and critical acclaim.
Production Challenges
The production of Swing Time faced various challenges, typical of filmmaking in the 1930s. These may have included technical limitations, such as in the filming and choreographing of complex dance sequences, as well as the coordination of elaborate set designs and costumes to bring the story to life on the big screen.
Settings, Visual Styles, and Techniques
The film is primarily set in New York City, showcasing both urban and indoor settings. "Swing Time" features the visual style and techniques characteristic of classic Hollywood musicals, including elaborate dance numbers, stylish costumes, and carefully crafted set designs that transport the audience to the glamorous world of the 1930s entertainment industry.
Trivia and Fun Facts
- The "Bojangles of Harlem" dance sequence in Swing Time is a notable and controversial tribute to Bill "Bojangles" Robinson, featuring Fred Astaire in blackface.
- The film's music, composed by Jerome Kern with lyrics by Dorothy Fields, includes iconic songs such as "The Way You Look Tonight," which won the Academy Award for Best Original Song.