Fred Astaire was a legendary American dancer, singer, and actor, who rose to fame during the Golden Age of Hollywood.
He starred in numerous musical films throughout his career, earning him a reputation as one of the greatest dancers in film history. With his effortless charm and impeccable dance skills, Fred Astaire was a true icon of his time, and his influence can still be seen in today’s popular culture.
Best Fred Astaire Movies
In this article, we will take a look at some of the best Fred Astaire movies that have stood the test of time and continue to inspire and entertain audiences today.
From his iconic partnership with Ginger Rogers to his later works with other leading ladies, Fred Astaire’s movies are a testament to his talent and the magic of classic Hollywood cinema.
1. Holiday Inn (1942)
Holiday Inn is a classic musical film from 1942, starring Fred Astaire, Bing Crosby, and Marjorie Reynolds. The film follows the story of two friends who open up a hotel that only operates on holidays.
Fred Astaire’s character, Ted Hanover, is a talented dancer and performer who falls in love with Reynolds’ character, Linda Mason, a talented singer and dancer herself.
The film features some of Astaire’s most iconic dance routines, including the famous “White Christmas” number where he tap dances with firecrackers.
Holiday Inn is a delightful film that showcases Fred Astaire’s talents as a dancer and actor. His chemistry with Marjorie Reynolds is palpable, and their dance numbers together are nothing short of stunning.
The film’s musical score is also noteworthy, with songs like “Easter Parade” and “Be Careful, It’s My Heart” becoming instant classics. Overall, Holiday Inn is a must-watch for fans of classic Hollywood musicals, and it remains one of Fred Astaire’s best films.
2. Easter Parade (1948)
Easter Parade is a beloved musical film from 1948, starring Fred Astaire and Judy Garland. The film tells the story of a successful dancer, Don Hewes (Astaire), who is dumped by his partner and decides to make a new star out of a chorus girl named Hannah Brown (Garland).
The film features a number of memorable musical numbers, including “A Couple of Swells” and “Steppin’ Out with My Baby,” both of which feature Fred Astaire’s incredible dancing skills.
Easter Parade is a delightful film that showcases the talents of both Fred Astaire and Judy Garland.
The chemistry between the two stars is evident, and their performances are a joy to watch. The film’s musical score is also noteworthy, with Irving Berlin’s classic songs adding to the film’s charm and appeal.
Overall, Easter Parade is a timeless classic that remains a beloved favorite among fans of musicals and classic Hollywood cinema.
![Easter Parade [DVD] [1948]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51OuUpzvrHL.jpg)
3. Funny Face (1957)
Funny Face is a romantic comedy musical film from 1957, starring Fred Astaire and Audrey Hepburn. The film follows the story of a fashion photographer (Astaire) who discovers a new model (Hepburn) and takes her to Paris to be a part of a fashion shoot.
As they work together, they fall in love and must navigate the challenges that come with their different lifestyles and aspirations.
Funny Face is a charming film that showcases the talents of both Fred Astaire and Audrey Hepburn.
Astaire’s dancing skills are on full display in the film’s musical numbers, including the famous “Let’s Kiss and Make Up” routine, while Hepburn’s natural grace and charm shine throughout the film.
The film’s iconic fashion, set design, and musical score also add to its appeal, making it a must-watch for fans of classic Hollywood cinema.
Overall, Funny Face is a delightful romantic comedy that remains a beloved favorite among fans of Fred Astaire, Audrey Hepburn, and the golden age of Hollywood.
![Funny Face (1957) (BD) [Blu-ray]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51TRczeVoNL.jpg)
4. Top Hat (1935)
Top Hat is a classic musical comedy film from 1935, starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. The film tells the story of a dancer named Jerry Travers (Astaire) who falls in love with a model named Dale Tremont (Rogers) while staying at a London hotel.
The film features some of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers’ most iconic dance routines, including “Cheek to Cheek” and “Top Hat, White Tie, and Tails.”
Top Hat is a timeless classic that showcases the incredible chemistry and talents of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XPdIWk097ls&pp=ygUWVG9wIEhhdCAoMTkzNSkgdHJhaWxlcg%3D%3D
The film’s musical numbers are some of the most memorable in Hollywood history, and Astaire’s tap dancing skills are simply mesmerizing. The film’s humor, romance, and musical score also add to its appeal, making it a must-watch for fans of classic Hollywood cinema.
Overall, Top Hat is a masterpiece that remains one of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers’ best films. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the magic of their partnership and the timeless appeal of classic Hollywood musicals.
5. The Band Wagon (1953)
The Band Wagon is a beloved musical comedy film from 1953, starring Fred Astaire, Cyd Charisse, and Jack Buchanan.
The film follows the story of Tony Hunter (Astaire), a fading Hollywood star who decides to revive his career by starring in a Broadway musical. Along the way, he faces challenges with the show’s director (Buchanan) and falls in love with a co-star (Charisse).
The Band Wagon is a delightful film that showcases Fred Astaire’s incredible dancing skills, particularly in the film’s show-stopping musical numbers like “Dancing in the Dark” and “Girl Hunt Ballet.”
The film also features some of the wittiest dialogue and most memorable songs of any Hollywood musical, including the classic tune “That’s Entertainment.” The chemistry between Astaire and Charisse is also a highlight of the film, adding to its charm and appeal.
Overall, The Band Wagon is a must-watch for fans of classic Hollywood musicals and Fred Astaire. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the film’s timeless appeal and the talent of its cast and crew.
6. Swing Time (1936)
Swing Time is a classic musical romantic comedy film from 1936, starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. The film follows the story of a dancer named Lucky Garnett (Astaire) who travels to New York City to make his fortune.
Along the way, he falls in love with a dance instructor named Penny Carrol (Rogers) and must navigate the challenges of their romance.
Swing Time is widely considered one of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers’ best films, thanks in large part to their incredible chemistry and the film’s memorable musical numbers.
Astaire’s dance numbers in the film, including “Pick Yourself Up” and “Never Gonna Dance,” are some of the most iconic of his career, while Rogers’ natural grace and charm are evident throughout the film.
The film’s humor, romance, and musical score also add to its appeal, making it a must-watch for fans of classic Hollywood cinema.
Overall, Swing Time is a timeless classic that showcases the magic of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers’ partnership and the enduring appeal of classic Hollywood musicals.
7. The Barkleys Of Broadway (1949)
The Barkleys of Broadway is a musical comedy film from 1949, starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers.
The film tells the story of a successful Broadway dancing duo, Josh and Dinah Barkley (Astaire and Rogers), who split up when Dinah decides to pursue a career in dramatic acting.
The film follows their individual struggles to make it on their own and the eventual reunion of the duo.
The Barkleys of Broadway is a delightful film that showcases the incredible talents of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. The film features some of their most memorable dance routines, including the stunning “They Can’t Take That Away from Me” number.
The film’s humor, romance, and musical score also add to its appeal, making it a must-watch for fans of classic Hollywood cinema.
Overall, The Barkleys of Broadway is a charming and entertaining film that showcases the magic of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers’ partnership. It may not be their most well-known film, but it remains a beloved favorite among fans of classic Hollywood musicals.
![The Barkleys of Broadway [DVD] [1949]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51nwJKrMIUL.jpg)
8. The Story Of Vernon And Irene Castle (1939)
The Story of Vernon and Irene Castle is a biographical musical film from 1939, starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. The film tells the true story of the famous ballroom dance duo Vernon and Irene Castle, who rose to fame in the early 1900s.
Astaire plays Vernon Castle, while Rogers plays his wife and dance partner Irene.
The Story of Vernon and Irene Castle is a departure from Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers’ usual fare of romantic comedies, but it showcases their incredible dancing skills and ability to bring historical figures to life.
The film’s musical score is also noteworthy, with classic tunes like “By the Light of the Silvery Moon” and “Waiting for Robert E. Lee” adding to the film’s appeal.
Overall, The Story of Vernon and Irene Castle is a fascinating and entertaining film that showcases the talents of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers in a unique and historical setting.
While it may not be as well-known as some of their other films, it is still a must-watch for fans of classic Hollywood musicals and the golden age of ballroom dancing.
9. Three Little Words (1950)
Three Little Words is a musical biographical film from 1950, starring Fred Astaire and Red Skelton.
The film tells the story of the songwriting duo Bert Kalmar (Astaire) and Harry Ruby (Skelton), who wrote some of the most beloved songs of the early 20th century, including “I Wanna Be Loved by You” and “A Kiss to Build a Dream On.”
Three Little Words is a charming and entertaining film that showcases the talents of both Fred Astaire and Red Skelton. The film features some of Astaire’s most memorable dance numbers, including the show-stopping “Bojangles of Harlem” routine.
The film’s musical score is also noteworthy, with classic tunes like “Three Little Words” and “Nevertheless (I’m in Love with You)” adding to the film’s appeal.
Overall, Three Little Words is a delightful and heartwarming film that pays tribute to the talent and legacy of Bert Kalmar and Harry Ruby. It remains a must-watch for fans of classic Hollywood musicals and the golden age of American popular music.
10. You Were Never Lovelier (1942)
You Were Never Lovelier is a romantic musical comedy film from 1942, starring Fred Astaire and Rita Hayworth. The film tells the story of a wealthy Argentine businessman who falls in love with the daughter of a famous dancer.
Fred Astaire plays Robert Davis, a dancer who is mistaken for the businessman and ends up falling in love with the daughter, played by Rita Hayworth.
You Were Never Lovelier is a charming and entertaining film that showcases the incredible talents of both Fred Astaire and Rita Hayworth.
The film features some of Astaire’s most memorable dance routines, including the “Shorty George” number with Hayworth. The film’s musical score is also noteworthy, with classic tunes like “I’m Old Fashioned” and “Dearly Beloved” adding to the film’s appeal.
Overall, You Were Never Lovelier is a delightful and romantic film that is a must-watch for fans of classic Hollywood musicals and the dynamic duo of Fred Astaire and Rita Hayworth. The film’s humor, romance, and musical numbers make it a timeless classic that continues
3 Reasons To Watch Fred Astaire Movies
Incredible Talent: Fred Astaire was one of the most talented dancers and performers in Hollywood history, and his movies showcase his unparalleled skills.
His dancing was effortless, graceful, and awe-inspiring, and he had a natural charisma that made him a joy to watch on screen.Timeless Appeal: Fred Astaire movies have stood the test of time and continue to be beloved by audiences today.
Their timeless themes of love, music, and dance resonate with people of all ages and backgrounds, making them enduring classics that can be enjoyed again and again.
Iconic Partnerships: Fred Astaire had numerous iconic partnerships with leading ladies throughout his career, including Ginger Rogers, Cyd Charisse, and Rita Hayworth.
These partnerships resulted in some of the most memorable dance numbers and romantic moments in Hollywood history, making Fred Astaire movies a must-watch for fans of classic Hollywood cinema.
Best Fred Astaire Movies – Wrap Up
In summary, Fred Astaire was a legendary performer and actor, and his movies remain some of the most beloved and enduring classics in Hollywood history.
From his iconic partnerships with Ginger Rogers to his later works with other leading ladies, Fred Astaire’s movies are a testament to his talent and the magic of classic Hollywood cinema.
Some of the best Fred Astaire movies that have stood the test of time and continue to inspire and entertain audiences today include Holiday Inn, Easter Parade, Funny Face, Top Hat.
The Band Wagon, Swing Time, The Barkleys of Broadway, The Story of Vernon and Irene Castle, Three Little Words, and You Were Never Lovelier.
Whether you’re a fan of musicals, romance, or classic Hollywood cinema, Fred Astaire movies have something for everyone. With their timeless appeal, incredible talent, and iconic partnerships, they are a must-watch for anyone who appreciates the magic of the silver screen.
