Great On Screen Couple: Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, dancing and singing numbers were a bright spot for many movie goers during the Great Depression. Their cheerful plots and wonderful characters, were showcased in beautiful Art Deco sets and supported with the most talented performers of the era. Astaire and Roger's magic, still continues today for many classic movie fans.
When Astaire and Rogers take the floor for the dance number called, Carioca in the film, Flying Down to Rio (1933), it was clear to see why the most famous dance team in the movies became so popular.
Even though, they were amazing dance team things did not start out as smooth as you might think, Fred Astaire really did not want make a second movie with Ginger. Even though Astaire said, "I don't mind making another picture with Ginger, but as for this team idea, it's out! I've just managed to live down one partnership(his sister Adele pictured below) and I don't want to be bothered with any more."
But after the film received such high reviews, Astaire changed his mind and he and Rogers, became known as "The King and Queen of the Carioca".
Soon after, Fred and Ginger landed their first starring movie rolls in the film, The Gay Divorcee (1934). Where they showcased their amazing talents in the musical number "The Continental" which lasted 17 1/2 minutes.
The dancers, had a huge argument over Ginger's costume in the film, Top Hat(1935). Ginger Rogers, wanted to wear the blue dress decorated with ostrich feathers for the "Cheek to Cheek" number. When director Mark Sandrich and Fred Astaire saw the dress, they wanted Rogers wear the white gown she had worn in, The Gay Divorcee. Rogers walked off the set, only returning when Sandrich agreed to let her wear the blue dress.
During filming, the feathers started coming off the dress. Astaire later claimed it was like "a chicken being attacked by a coyote". Astaire, wanted to put the situation behind them and gave Rogers a locket of a gold feather. This was how Gingers became nicknamed "Feathers".
Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, had a romantic screen teaming like no other dance team.
Oh yeah! a great couple I love!! beautiful photos, thank you very much for the fantastic information! Hugs from Spain!
ReplyDeleteEven if we took away their magical musical talent, Fred and Ginger, with their easy screen manner and great delivery would still be a top notch team. As it is, audiences are blessed to enjoy all of their gifts. Watching a Fred and Ginger movie is like being invited to the best party in town!
ReplyDeleteWhat a funny story about the feathers--nice to know how she got the nickname.
ReplyDeleteMeriyay, My Grandmother was from Spain. So.. I love hugs from Spain.
ReplyDeleteCaftan Woman, I agree... and they are dressed for the best party in town.
Kim, It is nice to know that Fred, is a nice guy who wants to get along with his fellow actors.
They were indeed fabulous dancers together! Nothing compares. Interesting to know he didn't fancy to continue working with her. Lovely pictures, and as always a great post!
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