“Easter Parade” is a 1948 musical that sparkles with the charm of a freshly polished diamond. It follows the comedic love-hate relationship between two stage performers, played by Fred Astaire and Judy Garland, as they navigate their way through the glittering world of showbiz and romance. With toe-tapping tunes and sparkling dance numbers, this film is a true gem of its era.
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Review
In the world of classic Hollywood musicals, few films can rival the enduring popularity of “Easter Parade.” Released in 1948, this colorful and joyous film stars some of the era’s most beloved performers, including Fred Astaire, Judy Garland, Peter Lawford, and Ann Miller. Directed by Charles Walters with a screenplay by Sidney Sheldon, the film tells the story of a talented dancer named Don Hewes (Astaire) who sets out to create a new dancing partner after his former partner (and girlfriend) leaves him for a solo career.
At first glance, the plot may seem simple and straightforward. However, as is often the case with classic films, there is much more going on beneath the surface. For one thing, “Easter Parade” was not originally intended to star Astaire and Garland. In fact, it was initially planned as a vehicle for Gene Kelly and Judy Garland (who had previously starred together in “For Me and My Gal”). However, when Kelly suffered an injury before filming began, he had to drop out of the project. Astaire was brought in as his replacement – a move that would prove to be one of the most inspired casting decisions in Hollywood history.
From the moment Astaire appears onscreen in his dapper suit and top hat, it’s clear that he is in his element. His smooth moves and effortless grace are enough to make anyone want to tap their feet along with him. As Don sets out to find a new partner, he stumbles upon Hannah Brown (Garland), a young woman who works at a nearby store. Though she’s not initially interested in dancing with Don (who has something of an ego problem), she eventually agrees to become his new partner.
What follows is a series of delightful dance numbers set against some truly stunning backdrops. From Central Park to Fifth Avenue to Broadway itself, “Easter Parade” takes viewers on a whirlwind tour of New York City during one of its most festive seasons. Along the way, we meet a colorful cast of characters, including Lawford’s character Johnny (a rival dancer who also happens to be in love with Hannah), Miller’s character Nadine (Don’s former partner who has since become a star in her own right), and Ann Shoemaker’s character Madame Egelichi (a wig-maker who provides some much-needed comic relief).
But perhaps the film’s greatest strength is its sheer exuberance. From the opening credits featuring a parade of Easter hats to the finale in which Astaire and Garland perform a rousing rendition of “Steppin’ Out with My Baby,” “Easter Parade” is an unabashed celebration of joy and happiness. It’s impossible to watch this film without feeling like you’ve been transported to a world where anything is possible.
Of course, no discussion of “Easter Parade” would be complete without mentioning its iconic score. Composed by Irving Berlin (who also wrote the lyrics), the songs featured in this film have become beloved classics in their own right. Standouts include “Shaking the Blues Away,” “A Couple of Swells,” and “It Only Happens When I Dance With You.” But perhaps the most famous song from the film is “Easter Parade” itself, which has become synonymous with the holiday season.
Despite its enduring popularity, “Easter Parade” was not without its flaws. Some critics at the time felt that Astaire was too old for his role (he was 49 at the time of filming), while others criticized Walters’ direction as being too static. Additionally, there were reports of tension on set between Astaire and Garland – though you’d never know it from watching their scenes together, which ooze chemistry and charm.
Regardless of these minor quibbles, there can be no denying that “Easter Parade” remains a classic of the Hollywood musical genre. Its timeless themes of love, friendship, and redemption continue to resonate with audiences today, nearly 75 years after its initial release. And while its stars may be long gone, their performances in this film remain as fresh and delightful as ever – a testament to the enduring power of the movies to lift our spirits and fill us with joy. As Don himself might say, “Who could ask for anything more?”
Technical Data
- Release : 1948-07-08
- Runtime : 103
- Genre : Romance
- Cast : Judy Garland as Hannah Brown, Fred Astaire as Don Hewes, Peter Lawford as Jonathan Harrow III, Ann Miller as Nadine Hale, Jules Munshin as François
- Crew : Sydney Guilaroff as Hair Designer, Arthur Krams as Assistant Decorator, Arthur Freed as Producer, Jack Martin Smith as Art Direction, Cedric Gibbons as Art Direction
- Revenue : 0
- Budget : 0
- Company : Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
- Popularity : 9.964
- Summary : On the day before Easter in 1911, Don Hewes is crushed when his dancing partner (and object of affection) Nadine Hale refuses to start a new contract with him. To prove Nadine’s not important to him, Don acquires innocent new protege Hannah Brown, vowing to make her a star in time for next year’s Easter parade.
- Tagline : The Happiest Musical Ever Made is Irving Berlin’s Easter Parade
