Fred Astaire

Fred Astaire

Born: May 10, 1899
Died: June 22, 1987
in Omaha, Nebraska, USA
Fred Astaire (May 10, 1899 – June 22, 1987) was an American dancer, singer, actor and choreographer. He is widely regarded as the most influential dancer in the history of film. Born as Frederick Austerlitz in Omaha, Nebraska, on May 10, 1899, to Johanna (Geilus) and Fritz, a brewer, he entered show business at age 5. He was successful in vaudeville and on Broadway as well as in London's West End together with his sister Adele, a partnership that lasted 27 years. After Adele retired to marry in 1932, Astaire headed to Hollywood. Signed to RKO, he was loaned to MGM to appear in Dancing Lady (1933) before starting work on RKO's Flying Down to Rio (1933). In the latter film, he was teamed with Ginger Rogers, with whom he worked in 9 RKO pictures. Astaire later appeared opposite a number of partners, including Cyd Charisse, Rita Hayworth, Vera-Ellen and Barrie Chase. Astaire remained active well into old age, starring in musicals through 1968, and also performed a number of straight dramatic roles in film and TV. Throughout his career, he was also active in recording and radio. He died of pneumonia on June 22, 1987 in Los Angeles.

Movies for Fred Astaire...

AFI Life Achievement Award: 50th Anniversary Special
Title: AFI Life Achievement Award: 50th Anniversary Special
Character: Self (archive footage)
Released: December 30, 2023
Type: Movie
TCM host Ben Mankiewicz hosts this 50th anniversary special, with archival footage from 50 years of tributes to various legends in film by the American Film Institute, which began its awards in 1973.
bee
A Life in Technicolor
Title: A Life in Technicolor
Released: November 27, 2022
Type: Movie
Alone in her apartment during the pandemic, Natalie turns to her favorite classic movies to keep her company. When her life in color gradually begins to turn to black-and-white, she takes a magical tour through film history, recreating a dazzling array of classic movie scenes.
bee
Sid & Judy
Title: Sid & Judy
Character: Self (archive footage)
Released: June 26, 2019
Type: Movie
Explore the dramatic career and personal struggles of the talented and tragically short-lived entertainer Judy Garland through rare concert footage, never-heard-before voice recordings and personal photos.
bee
In Full Swing
Title: In Full Swing
Character: Self (Archive Footage)
Released: June 11, 2019
Type: Movie
A documentary on the making of the 1936 film Swing Time, featuring interviews with jazz and film critic Gary Giddens, dance critic Brian Seibert, and Dorothy Fields biographer Deborah Grace Winer. This is an all-encompassing feature covering the evolution of the Hollywood musical, Astaire's and Rogers' work, and the film's music, written by Jerome Kern and Dorothy Fields.
bee
La La La
Title: La La La
Character: Various Roles (archive footage)
Released: November 25, 2018
Type: Movie
When the silent cinema learned to speak, the audience was surprised not only by the voices of the actors and the sound effects, but also by a new element, the music, which, combined with the dance and an unprejudiced imagination, gave rise to a new genre, as important to Hollywood cinema as the western was: the musical. A journey through the history of this genre, from its beginnings to the present day.
bee
Fred Astaire donne le 'la'
Title: Fred Astaire donne le 'la'
Character: Self (archive footage)
Released: December 24, 2017
Type: Movie
bee
Darcey Bussell: Looking for Fred Astaire
Title: Darcey Bussell: Looking for Fred Astaire
Character: Self (archive footage)
Released: December 21, 2017
Type: Movie
Documentary in which Darcey Bussell profiles Hollywood dancer Fred Astaire, marking 30 years since his death.
bee
Perspectives: For the Love of Fred Astaire
Title: Perspectives: For the Love of Fred Astaire
Character: (archive footage)
Released: January 1, 2015
Type: Movie
Strictly Come Dancing's Len Goodman shows his softer side in Fred Astaire tribute. Includes interviews with Astaire's daughter Ava as well as dance partner Barrie Chase.
bee
Bing Crosby: Rediscovered
Title: Bing Crosby: Rediscovered
Character: Self (archive footage)
Released: December 2, 2014
Type: Movie
Bing Crosby was, without a doubt, the most popular and influential multi-media star of the first half of the twentieth century, pulling audiences in with his intimate, laid-back voice and innate charm. Narrated by Stanley Tucci and directed by Robert Trachtenberg, this film explores the life and legend of this iconic performer, revealing a personality far more complex than the image the public had only thought they'd known.
bee
Sem Título #1: Dance of Leitfossil
Title: Sem Título #1: Dance of Leitfossil
Character: Self (archive footage)
Released: June 1, 2014
Type: Movie
Experimental Short, Brazil
bee
And the Oscar Goes To...
Title: And the Oscar Goes To...
Character: Self (archive footage)
Released: February 1, 2014
Type: Movie
The story of the gold-plated statuette that became the film industry's most coveted prize, AND THE OSCAR GOES TO... traces the history of the Academy itself, which began in 1927 when Louis B. Mayer, then head of MGM, led other prominent members of the industry in forming this professional honorary organization. Two years later the Academy began bestowing awards, which were nicknamed "Oscar," and quickly came to represent the pinnacle of cinematic achievement.
bee
Title: Talking Pictures
Character: Self (archive footage)
Released: January 5, 2013
Type: TV
A look back at television appearances by legends of the silver screen, using archive footage to tell the story of their lives and careers.
bee
Astaire and Rogers Sing the Great American Songbook
Title: Astaire and Rogers Sing the Great American Songbook
Character: Self (archive footage)
Released: April 9, 2010
Type: Movie
Compilation of memorable songs from the Great American Songbook sung by Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers in their films. Includes songs written by George and Ira Gershwin, Irving Berlin, Jerome Kern and Dorothy Fields, and Harold Arlen and Johnny Mercer.
bee
1939: Hollywood's Greatest Year
Title: 1939: Hollywood's Greatest Year
Character: Self (archive footage)
Released: July 2, 2009
Type: Movie
This documentary focuses on 1939, considered to be Hollywood's greatest year, with film clips and insight into what made the year so special.
bee
Astaire and Rogers: Partners in Rhythm
Title: Astaire and Rogers: Partners in Rhythm
Character: Various / Self (archive footage)
Released: October 24, 2006
Type: Movie
Featuring clips from all 10 films which Fred Astaire & Ginger Rogers made together from 1933 to 1949. Includes candid photos and behind-the-scenes tidbits.
bee
Title: "All -Singing All-Dancing" Before And After
Character: Archive Footage
Released: October 10, 2006
Type: Movie
The development of sound and song dance production techniques, and how they come together in 'Holiday Inn'
bee
Reunited at MGM: Astaire and Rogers Together Again
Title: Reunited at MGM: Astaire and Rogers Together Again
Character: Self (archive footage)
Released: August 16, 2005
Type: Movie
A cherished remembrance of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers reunited for the film, "The Barkleys of Broadway."
bee
Easter Parade: On the Avenue
Title: Easter Parade: On the Avenue
Character: Self (Archive Footage)
Released: March 15, 2005
Type: Movie
This documentary tells the story of the making of Irving Berlin's Easter Parade.
bee
Get Aboard! 'The Band Wagon'
Title: Get Aboard! 'The Band Wagon'
Character: Self (archive footage)
Released: March 15, 2005
Type: Movie
Documentary on the 1953 musical "The Band Wagon."
bee
Complicated Women
Title: Complicated Women
Character: Self (archive footage)
Released: May 6, 2003
Type: Movie
Looks at the stereotype-breaking films of the period from 1929, when movies entered the sound era, until 1934 when the Hays Code virtually neutered film content. No longer portrayed as virgins or vamps, the liberated female of the pre-code films had dimensions. Good girls had lovers and babies and held down jobs, while the bad girls were cast in a sympathetic light. And they did it all without apology.
bee
Cole Porter in Hollywood: Satin and Silk
Title: Cole Porter in Hollywood: Satin and Silk
Character: Self (Archive Footage)
Released: April 22, 2003
Type: Movie
This documentary short subject details the making of the 1957 MGM musical, "Silk Stockings". Hosted by its star Cyd Charisse, the film gives behind-the-scenes glimpses of how this film was made with interviews by musical director Andre Previn and supporting actress Janis Paige.
bee
Hollywood Musicals of the 40's
Title: Hollywood Musicals of the 40's
Character: Self (archive footage)
Released: September 1, 2000
Type: Movie
Highlights from the great musicals of the 1940s. Stars featured include Judy Garland, Mickey Rooney, Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly, Bing Crosby, Doris Day, Danny Kaye, Jimmy Durante and Frank Sinatra.
bee
Doris Day: It's Magic
Title: Doris Day: It's Magic
Character: Self
Released: October 18, 1998
Type: Movie
When the cameras rolled, Doris Day wore a happy face, never hinting at the pain she endured in her personal life. This documentary brings viewers close to the real Doris Day through the eyes of her friends and family members and with the help of film footage, newsreels and photographs. What surfaces is a complex picture of an equally complicated woman who faced problems far more formidable than her cinematic image revealed.
bee
A Bing Crosby Christmas
Title: A Bing Crosby Christmas
Character: Self (archive footage)
Released: January 1, 1998
Type: Movie
The program on this DVD is basically a retrospective produced in the early 1990s for public television that was originally called «A Bing Crosby Christmas: Just Like the Ones You Used to Know» that was narrated by Gene Kelly and hosted by Bing's widow, Kathryn Crosby. The program itself features clips from fifteen of Bing's classic television specials, concentrating on the period from the early 1960s onwards when he included Kathryn and their three children in the programs.
bee
That's Entertainment! III
Title: That's Entertainment! III
Character: (archive footage)
Released: July 1, 1994
Type: Movie
Some of MGM'S musical stars review the studios history of musicals. From The Hollywood Revue of 1929 to Brigadoon, from the first musical talkies to Gene Kelly in Singin' in the Rain.
bee
Audrey Hepburn: Remembered
Title: Audrey Hepburn: Remembered
Character: Self (archive footage)
Released: August 11, 1993
Type: Movie
Audrey Hepburn was one of the movies' best-loved stars, blessed with beauty, talent, an elegant sophistication and an enduring aura of youthful innocence. As Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF, she spoke for the world's suffering children and families, earning an affection and admiration that only increased with news of her untimely death. From the star herself we learn of her career and the family and friendships that were her priority.
bee
The Fred Astaire Songbook
Title: The Fred Astaire Songbook
Character: Self (archive footage)
Released: March 8, 1991
Type: Movie
A loving tribute to Astaire the singer, hosted by Audrey Hepburn.
bee
Title: Star Life
Character: Self
Released: August 4, 1990
Type: TV
bee
You're the Top: The Cole Porter Story
Title: You're the Top: The Cole Porter Story
Character: Self (archive footage)
Released: July 23, 1990
Type: Movie
Biographical portrait of one of Broadway's most brilliant songwriters. Told through the use of archival material and interviews with the rich and famous that knew him, this portrait concentrates on his career and his public life events.
bee
Dance Crazy in Hollywood
Title: Dance Crazy in Hollywood
Character: Various Roles (archive footage)
Released: January 1, 1990
Type: Movie
American dancer and choreographer Hermes Pan recalls his life and work as he relives the glorious history of the Hollywood musical.
bee
Title: The RKO Story: Tales From Hollywood
Character: Self
Released: July 3, 1987
Type: TV
Ed Asner tells the story of RKO Pictures from the 1920s to the 1960s.
bee
George Stevens: A Filmmaker's Journey
Title: George Stevens: A Filmmaker's Journey
Character: Self
Released: March 3, 1985
Type: Movie
Biography of the legendary filmmaker directed by his son.
bee
The Purple Rose of Cairo
Title: The Purple Rose of Cairo
Character: Jerry Travers (archive footage) (uncredited)
Released: March 1, 1985
Type: Movie
Cecilia is a waitress in New Jersey, living a dreary life during the Great Depression. Her only escape from her mundane reality is the movie theatre. After losing her job, Cecilia goes to see 'The Purple Rose of Cairo' in hopes of raising her spirits, where she watches dashing archaeologist Tom Baxter time and again.
bee
That's Dancing!
Title: That's Dancing!
Character: Self (archive footage)
Released: January 18, 1985
Type: Movie
A documentary film about dancing on the screen, from it's orgins after the invention of the movie camera, over the movie musical from the late 20s, 30s, 40s 50s and 60s up to the break dance and the music videos from the 80s.
bee
Going Hollywood: The '30s
Title: Going Hollywood: The '30s
Character: (archive footage)
Released: January 1, 1984
Type: Movie
Robert Preston hosts this documentary that shows what people of the 1930s were watching as they were battling the Depression as well as eventually getting ready for another World War.
bee
Showbiz Goes to War
Title: Showbiz Goes to War
Character: (archive footage)
Released: December 31, 1982
Type: Movie
While a few Hollywood celebrities such as James Stewart and Clark Gable saw combat during World War II, the majority used their talents to rally the American public through bond sales, morale-boosting USO tours, patriotic war dramas and escapist film fare. Comedian David Steinberg plays host for this star-studded, 90-minute documentary, which looks at the way Tinseltown helped the United States' war effort.
bee
Ghost Story
Title: Ghost Story
Character: Ricky Hawthorne
Released: December 18, 1981
Type: Movie
Four successful elderly gentlemen, members of the Chowder Society, share a gruesome, 50-year-old secret. When one of Edward Wanderley's twin sons dies in a bizarre accident, the group begins to see a pattern of frightening events developing.
bee
Title: Fred Astaire
Character: Self
Released: March 10, 1980
Type: TV
Fred Astaire is a two-part documentary on the career of Fred Astaire.
bee
The Man in the Santa Claus Suit
Title: The Man in the Santa Claus Suit
Character: Santa Claus
Released: December 23, 1979
Type: Movie
The mysterious owner of a costume shop rents a Santa Claus suit to three very different men: a math teacher trying to get the nerve to propose, a homeless restaurateur trying to hide from the mob, and a harried political speech writer visiting with his estranged wife and son. Their lives are inexorably changed by their experience of playing Santa Claus.
bee
Title: The Kennedy Center Honors
Character: Self
Released: December 28, 1978
Type: TV
The Kennedy Center Honors is an annual honor given to those in the performing arts for their lifetime of contributions to American culture.
bee
Title: Battlestar Galactica
Character: Chameleon / Captain Dimitri
Released: September 17, 1978
Type: TV
When the 12 Colonies of Man are wiped out by a cybernetic race called the Cylons, Commander Adama and the crew of the battlestar Galactica lead a ragtag fleet of human survivors in search of a "mythical planet" called Earth.
bee
A Family Upside Down
Title: A Family Upside Down
Character: Ted Long
Released: April 8, 1978
Type: Movie
An elderly married couple find that as their physical and mental health deteriorates, they find themselves dependent more and more upon their grown children.
bee
The Purple Taxi
Title: The Purple Taxi
Character: Dr. Seamus Scully
Released: May 25, 1977
Type: Movie
With his mauve taxi, the old philosopher Dr. Seamus Scully runs around the small green roads of the south of Ireland, becoming confident of his patients, while trying to help them find their way.
bee
The Easter Bunny Is Comin' to Town
Title: The Easter Bunny Is Comin' to Town
Character: S.D. Kluger (narrator) (voice)
Released: April 6, 1977
Type: Movie
The Mailman decides to stop another deluge of letters by answering questions about the Easter Bunny: Sunny, a baby rabbit found and adopted by Kidville (a town of only kids--even a kid mailman). And when Sunny goes delivering eggs to the nearby town (which he has to dye to fool Gadzooks, the mean bear on the mountain), he discovers that there are no kids in the town, and that the rightful (kid) ruler is being suppressed by his aunt. But the young king likes Sunny's dyed eggs and jelly beans. So Kidsville, with the help of an old train engine, makes a few plans (and a decoy chocolate rabbit) to distribute them.
bee
The Amazing Dobermans
Title: The Amazing Dobermans
Character: Daniel Hughes
Released: November 24, 1976
Type: Movie
An ex-con man and his five trained Dobermans help a Treasury Dept. agent stop a racketeer and his gang.
bee
That's Entertainment, Part II
Title: That's Entertainment, Part II
Character: Self - Co-Host / Narrator
Released: May 16, 1976
Type: Movie
Gene Kelly and Fred Astaire present more golden moments from the MGM film library, this time including comedy and drama as well as classic musical numbers.
bee
Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?
Title: Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?
Character: Self (archive footage)
Released: August 6, 1975
Type: Movie
Period music, film clips and newsreel footage combined into a visual exploration of the American entertainment industry during the Great Depression.
bee
The Lion Roars Again
Title: The Lion Roars Again
Character: Self
Released: January 1, 1975
Type: Movie
A chronicle of the 1975 International Press Conclave hosted by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer over two days in May 1975.
bee
The Towering Inferno
Title: The Towering Inferno
Character: Harlee Claiborne
Released: December 14, 1974
Type: Movie
At the opening party of a colossal—but poorly constructed—skyscraper, a massive fire breaks out, threatening to destroy the tower and everyone in it.
bee
Title: Dinah!
Character: Self
Released: October 21, 1974
Type: TV
Dinah's show premiered 9 September 1974 and continued through to 4 September 1981. She started out the 70's with Dinah's Place which usually featured one guest and was more of a home oriented show about cooking, crafts and occasionally music. This format lasted until May of 1974. When the show came back in October of 1974 the format had changed drastically to a variety talk show which was called Dinah. and went on until 1981. This show was also known as "Dinah and Friends" during the summer of 1976.
bee
That's Entertainment!
Title: That's Entertainment!
Character: Self - Host / Narrator
Released: June 21, 1974
Type: Movie
Various MGM stars from yesterday present their favorite musical moments from the studio's 50 year history.
bee
Title: The American Film Institute Salute to ...
Character: Self
Released: April 2, 1973
Type: TV
In 1973 the American Film Institute initiated its Life Achievement Award, to be presented to a yearly recipient whose talent has fundamentally advanced the film art; whose accomplishments have been acknowledged by scholars, critics, professional peers and the general public; and whose work has stood the test of time.
bee
The Men Who Made the Movies: Vincente Minnelli
Title: The Men Who Made the Movies: Vincente Minnelli
Character: Self (archive footage)
Released: January 1, 1973
Type: Movie
bee
Imagine
Title: Imagine
Character: Self
Released: December 23, 1972
Type: Movie
A surreal, half-fiction, half real life footage of a day in the life of John lennon and Yoko Ono, composed to music from John's historic 'Imagine' album and Yoko's 'Fly'.
bee
S Wonderful, 'S Marvelous, 'S Gershwin
Title: S Wonderful, 'S Marvelous, 'S Gershwin
Character: Self
Released: January 17, 1972
Type: Movie
A musical tribute to brothers George and Ira Gershwin
bee
Hollywood: The Dream Factory
Title: Hollywood: The Dream Factory
Character: Self (archive footage)
Released: January 10, 1972
Type: Movie
A documentary about the glorious history of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios and its decline leading to the sale of its back lot and props. By extension this provides a general history of Hollywood's Golden Age and the legendary studio system.
bee
Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town
Title: Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town
Character: S.D. Kluger (voice)
Released: December 14, 1970
Type: Movie
A postman, S.D. Kluger, decides to answer some of the most common questions about Santa Claus, and tells us about a baby named Kris who is raised by a family of elf toymakers named Kringle. When Kris grows up, he wants to deliver toys to the children of Sombertown. But its Mayor is too mean to let that happen. And to make things worse, the Winter Warlock lives between the Kringles and Sombertown.
bee
The Over-the-Hill Gang Rides Again
Title: The Over-the-Hill Gang Rides Again
Character: The Baltimore Kid
Released: November 16, 1970
Type: Movie
Walter Brennan is back as the clever and funny over the hill Texas Ranger Nash Crawford. This time the gang must face corruption in their own home town. The gang put their heads together to clean up their town, take back the rule of law and rehabilitate the town lush (played by Fred Astaire) along with way.
bee
Midas Run
Title: Midas Run
Character: John Pedley
Released: May 7, 1969
Type: Movie
A veteran secret service officer from Britain hijacks a government shipment of $15 million of gold out of an irritation for never being knighted.
bee
Finian's Rainbow
Title: Finian's Rainbow
Character: Finian McLonergan
Released: October 9, 1968
Type: Movie
An Irish immigrant and his daughter arrive in Kentucky with a magical piece of gold that alters the course of several lives, including those of a struggling farmer and an African American community facing persecution from a bigoted politician.
bee
Title: The Dick Cavett Show
Character: Self - Guest
Released: June 6, 1968
Type: TV
The Dick Cavett Show has been the title of several talk shows hosted by Dick Cavett on various television networks.
bee
The Fred Astaire Show
Title: The Fred Astaire Show
Character: Self - Host
Released: February 7, 1968
Type: Movie
Ten years after the award winning "An Evening With..." Astaire shows us his "hip" credentials in this paen to the flower power era,larking about with the likes of Simon & Garfunkel, The Gordian Knot, and of course the lovely Barrie Chase whose legs seem longer than ever. As the previous reviewer said it is unforgivable that this and Astaire's other shows are not available on legitimate DVD releases.
bee
The World Premiere of 'Finian's Rainbow'
Title: The World Premiere of 'Finian's Rainbow'
Character: Self
Released: January 1, 1968
Type: Movie
This documentary has interviews with actors and the director as they arrive for the 1968 New York world premiere of "Finian's Rainbow."
bee
Title: Hollywood and the Stars
Character: Self (archive footage)
Released: September 30, 1963
Type: TV
Each 30 minute show concentrated on a Hollywood genre, film or legendary star.
bee
Flashing Spikes
Title: Flashing Spikes
Character: Narrator
Released: October 4, 1962
Type: Movie
An old ballplayer, thrown out of baseball due to a bribery scandal, becomes friends with a young phenom. The younger player is at first tainted by his association with the oldtimer, but eventually the truth about the scandal is revealed.
bee
Title: The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson
Character: Self
Released: October 1, 1962
Type: TV
The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson is a talk show hosted by Johnny Carson under The Tonight Show franchise from 1962 to 1992. It originally aired during late-night. For its first ten years, Carson's Tonight Show was based in New York City with occasional trips to Burbank, California; in May 1972, the show moved permanently to Burbank, California. In 2002, The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson was ranked #12 on TV Guide's 50 Greatest TV Shows of All Time.
bee
The Notorious Landlady
Title: The Notorious Landlady
Character: Franklyn Ambruster
Released: April 13, 1962
Type: Movie
An American junior diplomat in London rents a house from, and falls in love with, a woman suspected of murder.
bee
Hollywood: The Selznick Years
Title: Hollywood: The Selznick Years
Character: 'Dancing Lady' (archive footage) (uncredited)
Released: December 31, 1961
Type: Movie
Henry Fonda hosts this retrospective on the career and films of iconic filmmaker David O. Selznick, who epitomized the era of the auteur producer in the 30s and 40s.
bee
Title: The Mike Douglas Show
Character: Self
Released: December 11, 1961
Type: TV
The Mike Douglas Show is an American daytime television talk show hosted by Mike Douglas that originally aired only in the Cleveland area during much of its first two years on the air. It then went into syndication in 1963 and remained on television until 1982. It was distributed by Westinghouse Broadcasting and for much of its run, originated from studios of two of the company's TV stations in Cleveland and Philadelphia.
bee
Title: Alcoa Premiere
Character: Self - Host
Released: October 10, 1961
Type: TV
Alcoa Premiere is an American anthology drama series that aired from October 1961 to July 1963 on ABC. The series was hosted by Fred Astaire, directed by Norman Lloyd and executive produced by Alfred Hitchcock.
bee
Title: Dr. Kildare
Character: Joe Quinlan
Released: September 27, 1961
Type: TV
The story of a young intern in a large metropolitan hospital trying to learn his profession, deal with the problems of his patients, and win the respect of the senior doctor in his specialty, internal medicine.
bee
The Pleasure of His Company
Title: The Pleasure of His Company
Character: Biddeford 'Pogo' Poole
Released: June 1, 1961
Type: Movie
Biddeford "Pogo" Poole, an urbane charmer, has been absent for most of the life of his daughter, Jessica, but he pops up again as she prepares to marry a California rancher. Though Pogo's ex-wife remains unimpressed, Jessica quickly falls for her father's charismatic offensive. Soon, however, his reappearance causes complications for the bride-to-be, and she must decide whether or not to go ahead with the wedding.
bee
Astaire Time
Title: Astaire Time
Character: Self - Host
Released: September 28, 1960
Type: Movie
A one-hour live television special starring Fred Astaire.
bee
On the Beach
Title: On the Beach
Character: Julian Osborn
Released: December 16, 1959
Type: Movie
In 1964, atomic war wipes out humanity in the northern hemisphere; one American submarine finds temporary safe haven in Australia, where life-as-usual covers growing despair. In denial about the loss of his wife and children in the holocaust, American Captain Towers meets careworn but gorgeous Moira Davidson, who begins to fall for him. The sub returns after reconnaissance a month (or less) before the end; will Towers and Moira find comfort with each other?
bee
Another Evening with Fred Astaire
Title: Another Evening with Fred Astaire
Character: Self
Released: November 4, 1959
Type: Movie
A one-hour live television special starring Fred Astaire.
bee
An Evening with Fred Astaire
Title: An Evening with Fred Astaire
Character: Self
Released: October 17, 1958
Type: Movie
A one-hour live television special starring Fred Astaire.
bee
Silk Stockings
Title: Silk Stockings
Character: Steve Canfield
Released: June 28, 1957
Type: Movie
After three bumbling Soviet agents fail in their mission to retrieve a straying Soviet composer from Paris, the beautiful, ultra-serious Ninotchka is sent to complete their mission and to retrieve them. She starts out condemning the decadent West, but gradually falls under its spell—with the help of an American movie producer. A remake of Ninotchka (1939).
bee
Funny Face
Title: Funny Face
Character: Dick Avery
Released: February 13, 1957
Type: Movie
A shy Greenwich Village book clerk is discovered by a fashion photographer and whisked off to Paris where she becomes a reluctant model.
bee
Title: The Steve Allen Show
Character: Self - Recipient
Released: June 24, 1956
Type: TV
bee
Title: Cinépanorama
Character: Self
Released: February 4, 1956
Type: TV
bee
Stars of Cabaret
Title: Stars of Cabaret
Character: Self (archive footage)
Released: January 1, 1956
Type: Movie
A collection of amateur films made by photographer Roderic Vickers and friends.
bee
Title: MGM Parade
Character: Performer in 'Ziegfeld Follies'
Released: September 14, 1955
Type: TV
The original concept of the show was to allow the viewer to see the inner workings of a movie studio and featured interviews with MGM stars and explanations of how movies were made. Later, the format changed to show edited versions of MGM films.
bee
Title: MGM Parade
Character: actor 'Broadway Melody of 1940' (archive footage) (uncredited)
Released: September 14, 1955
Type: TV
The original concept of the show was to allow the viewer to see the inner workings of a movie studio and featured interviews with MGM stars and explanations of how movies were made. Later, the format changed to show edited versions of MGM films.
bee
Daddy Long Legs
Title: Daddy Long Legs
Character: Jervis Pendleton III
Released: May 5, 1955
Type: Movie
Wealthy American, Jervis Pendleton has a chance encounter at a French orphanage with a cheerful 18-year-old resident, and anonymously pays for her education at a New England college. She writes letters to her mysterious benefactor regularly, but he never writes back. Several years later, he visits her at school, while still concealing his identity, and—despite their large age difference—they soon fall in love.
bee
The Band Wagon
Title: The Band Wagon
Character: Tony Hunter
Released: August 7, 1953
Type: Movie
A Broadway artiste turns a faded film star's comeback vehicle into an artsy flop.
bee
Title: The Oscars
Character: Self
Released: March 19, 1953
Type: TV
An annual American awards ceremony honoring cinematic achievements in the film industry. The various category winners are awarded a copy of a statuette, officially the Academy Award of Merit, that is better known by its nickname Oscar.
bee
Title: General Electric Theater
Character: Paul Ashcroft
Released: February 1, 1953
Type: TV
General Electric Theater is an American anthology series hosted by Ronald Reagan that was broadcast on CBS radio and television. The series was sponsored by General Electric's Department of Public Relations.
bee
Title: General Electric Theater
Character: J. Willingham Bardley
Released: February 1, 1953
Type: TV
General Electric Theater is an American anthology series hosted by Ronald Reagan that was broadcast on CBS radio and television. The series was sponsored by General Electric's Department of Public Relations.
bee
The Belle of New York
Title: The Belle of New York
Character: Charlie Hill
Released: February 22, 1952
Type: Movie
In squeaky-clean New York at the turn of the century, playboy Charlie Hill falls so much in love that he can walk on air. The object of his affections is beautiful Angela Bonfils, a mission house worker in the Bowery. He promises to reform his dissolute life, even trying to do an honest day's work.
bee
Royal Wedding
Title: Royal Wedding
Character: Tom Bowen
Released: March 8, 1951
Type: Movie
Tom and Ellen are asked to perform as a dance team in England at the time of Princess Elizabeth's wedding. As brother and sister, each develops a British love interest, Ellen with Lord John Brindale and Tom with dancer Anne Ashmond.
bee
Let's Dance
Title: Let's Dance
Character: Donald Elwood
Released: November 29, 1950
Type: Movie
Years after the death of her husband, Kitty McNeil takes her son and flees from the home of her wealthy and controlling mother-in-law. Alone and jobless in New York, she runs into an old flame, her USO partner Donald Elwood, who agrees to help her fight for custody of the child.
bee
Three Little Words
Title: Three Little Words
Character: Bert Kalmar
Released: July 12, 1950
Type: Movie
Song-and-dance man Bert Kalmar can't continue his stage career after an injury for while, so he has to earn his money as a lyricst. Per chance he meets composer Harry Ruby and their first song is a hit. Ruby gets Kalmar to marry is former partner Jessie Brown, and Kalmar and Jessie prevent Ruby from getting married to the wrong girls. But due to the fact, that Ruby has caused a backer's withdrawal for a Kalmar play, they end their relation.
bee
Title: What's My Line?
Character: Self - Mystery Guest
Released: February 2, 1950
Type: TV
Four panelists must determine guests' occupations - and, in the case of famous guests, while blindfolded, their identity - by asking only "yes" or "no" questions.
bee
The Barkleys of Broadway
Title: The Barkleys of Broadway
Character: Josh Barkley
Released: May 4, 1949
Type: Movie
Josh and Dinah Barkley are a successful musical-comedy team, known for their stormy but passionate relationship. Dinah feels overshadowed by Josh and limited by the lighthearted musical roles he directs her in. So she decides to stretch her skills by taking a role in a serious drama, directed by another man.
bee
Title: The Emmy Awards
Character: Self
Released: January 25, 1949
Type: TV
An annual awards ceremony honoring the best in U.S. prime time television programming as chosen by the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences.
bee
Easter Parade
Title: Easter Parade
Character: Don Hewes
Released: July 8, 1948
Type: Movie
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.
bee
Title: The Ed Sullivan Show
Character: Self
Released: June 20, 1948
Type: TV
The Ed Sullivan Show is an American TV variety show that originally ran on CBS from Sunday June 20, 1948 to Sunday June 6, 1971, and was hosted by New York entertainment columnist Ed Sullivan. It was replaced in September 1971 by the CBS Sunday Night Movie, which ran only one season and was eventually replaced by other shows. In 2002, The Ed Sullivan Show was ranked #15 on TV Guide's 50 Greatest TV Shows of All Time.
bee
Title: The Ed Sullivan Show
Character: Self (archive footage)
Released: June 20, 1948
Type: TV
The Ed Sullivan Show is an American TV variety show that originally ran on CBS from Sunday June 20, 1948 to Sunday June 6, 1971, and was hosted by New York entertainment columnist Ed Sullivan. It was replaced in September 1971 by the CBS Sunday Night Movie, which ran only one season and was eventually replaced by other shows. In 2002, The Ed Sullivan Show was ranked #15 on TV Guide's 50 Greatest TV Shows of All Time.
bee
Blue Skies
Title: Blue Skies
Character: Jed Potter
Released: October 15, 1946
Type: Movie
Jed Potter looks back on a love triangle conducted over the course of years and between musical numbers. Dancer Jed loves showgirl Mary, who loves compulsive nightclub-opener Johnny, who can't stay committed to anything in life for very long.
bee
Yolanda and the Thief
Title: Yolanda and the Thief
Character: Johnny Parkson Riggs
Released: November 22, 1945
Type: Movie
Johnny Riggs, a con man on the lam, finds himself in a Latin-American country named Patria. There, he overhears a convent-bred rich girl praying to her guardian angel for help in managing her tangled business affairs. Riggs decides to materialize as the girl's "angel", gains her unquestioning confidence, and helps himself to the deluded girl's millions. Just as he and his partner are about to flee Patria with their booty, Riggs realizes he has fallen in love with the girl and returns the money, together with a note that is part confession and part love letter. But the larcenous duo's escape from Patria turns out to be more difficult than they could ever have imagined.
bee
Ziegfeld Follies
Title: Ziegfeld Follies
Character: Various characters
Released: August 26, 1945
Type: Movie
The late, great impresario Florenz Ziegfeld looks down from heaven and ordains a new revue in his grand old style.
bee
Twenty Years After
Title: Twenty Years After
Character: (archive footage)
Released: January 1, 1944
Type: Movie
This short celebrates the 20th anniversary of MGM. Segments are shown from several early hits, then from a number of 1944 releases.
bee
The Sky's the Limit
Title: The Sky's the Limit
Character: Fred Atwell (Fred Burton)
Released: July 13, 1943
Type: Movie
Flying Tiger Fred Atwell sneaks away from his famous squadron's personal appearance tour and goes incognito for several days of leave. He quickly falls for photographer Joan Manion, pursuing her in the guise of a carefree drifter.
bee
You Were Never Lovelier
Title: You Were Never Lovelier
Character: Robert Davis
Released: November 19, 1942
Type: Movie
An Argentine heiress thinks a penniless American dancer is her secret admirer.
bee
Holiday Inn
Title: Holiday Inn
Character: Ted Hanover
Released: July 10, 1942
Type: Movie
Lovely Linda Mason has crooner Jim Hardy head over heels, but suave stepper Ted Hanover wants her for his new dance partner after fickle Lila Dixon gives him the brush. Jim's supper club, Holiday Inn, is the setting for the chase by Hanover and his manager.
bee
Screen Snapshots (Series 22, No. 10)
Title: Screen Snapshots (Series 22, No. 10)
Character: Self
Released: January 1, 1942
Type: Movie
The edition of Screen Snapshots celebrates 25 years of production. It looks at the content of edition #1, then a tribute to movie people who have died in those 25 years. Finally there are tributes to the Screen Snapshots series by Cecil De Mille, Walt Disney, Louella Parsons and Rosalind Russell.
bee
You'll Never Get Rich
Title: You'll Never Get Rich
Character: Robert Curtis
Released: September 25, 1941
Type: Movie
A Broadway choreographer gets drafted and coincidentally ends up in the same army base as his object of affection’s boyfriend.
bee
Second Chorus
Title: Second Chorus
Character: Danny O'Neill
Released: January 3, 1941
Type: Movie
Danny O'Neill and Hank Taylor are rival trumpeters with the Perennials, a college band, and both men are still attending college by failing their exams seven years in a row. In the midst of a performance, Danny spies Ellen Miller who ends up being made band manager. Both men compete for her affections while trying to get the other one fired.
bee
Broadway Melody of 1940
Title: Broadway Melody of 1940
Character: Johnny Brett
Released: February 9, 1940
Type: Movie
Johnny Brett and King Shaw are an unsuccessful dance team in New York. A producer discovers Brett as the new partner for Clare Bennett, but Brett, who thinks he is one of the people they lent money to, gives him the name of his partner.
bee
The Story of Vernon and Irene Castle
Title: The Story of Vernon and Irene Castle
Character: Vernon Castle
Released: March 29, 1939
Type: Movie
In 1911, minor stage comic, Vernon Castle meets the stage-struck Irene Foote. A few misadventures later, they marry and then abandon comedy to attempt a dancing career together. While they're performing in Paris, an agent sees them rehearse and starts them on their brilliant career as the world's foremost ballroom dancers. However, at the height of their fame, World War I begins.
bee
Carefree
Title: Carefree
Character: Tony Flagg
Released: September 2, 1938
Type: Movie
Dr. Tony Flagg's friend Steven has problems in the relationship with his fiancée Amanda, so he persuades her to visit Tony. After some minor misunderstandings, she falls in love with him. When he tries to use hypnosis to strengthen her feelings for Steven, things get complicated.
bee
A Damsel in Distress
Title: A Damsel in Distress
Character: Jerry Halliday
Released: November 19, 1937
Type: Movie
Lady Alyce Marshmorton must marry soon, and the staff of Tottney Castle have laid bets on who she'll choose, with young Albert wagering on 'Mr. X'. After Alyce goes to London to meet a beau she is restricted to the castle to curb her scandalous behavior. Albert then summons Jerry to Alyce's aid in order to 'protect his investment'.
bee
Shall We Dance
Title: Shall We Dance
Character: Pete Peters
Released: May 7, 1937
Type: Movie
Ballet star Petrov arranges to cross the Atlantic aboard the same ship as the dancer and musical star he's fallen for but barely knows. By the time the ocean liner reaches New York, a little white lie has churned through the rumour mill and turned into a hot gossip item—that the two celebrities are secretly married.
bee
Swing Time
Title: Swing Time
Character: Lucky Garnett
Released: August 27, 1936
Type: Movie
Lucky is tricked into missing his own wedding again and has to make $25,000 so her father allows him to marry Margaret. He and business partner Pop go to New York where they run into dancing instructor Penny. She and Lucky form a successful dance partnership, but romance is blighted by his old attachment to Margaret and hers for Ricky Romero.
bee
Follow the Fleet
Title: Follow the Fleet
Character: Bake Baker
Released: February 20, 1936
Type: Movie
When the fleet puts in at San Francisco, sailor Bake Baker tries to rekindle the flame with his old dancing partner, Sherry Martin, while Bake's buddy Bilge Smith romances Sherry's sister, Connie. But it's not all smooth sailing—Bake has a habit of losing Sherry's jobs for her and, despite Connie's dreams, Bilge is not ready to settle down.
bee
Top Hat
Title: Top Hat
Character: Jerry Travers
Released: August 29, 1935
Type: Movie
Showman Jerry Travers is working for producer Horace Hardwick in London. Jerry demonstrates his new dance steps late one night in Horace's hotel room, much to the annoyance of sleeping Dale Tremont below. She goes upstairs to complain and the two are immediately attracted to each other. Complications arise when Dale mistakes Jerry for Horace.
bee
Roberta
Title: Roberta
Character: Huck Haines
Released: March 7, 1935
Type: Movie
Football player John Kent tags along as Huck Haines and the Wabash Indianians travel to an engagement in Paris, only to lose it immediately. John and company visit his aunt, owner of a posh fashion house run by her assistant, Stephanie. There they meet the singer Scharwenka (alias Huck's old friend Lizzie), who gets the band a job. Meanwhile, Madame Roberta passes away and leaves the business to John and he goes into partnership with Stephanie.
bee
The Gay Divorcee
Title: The Gay Divorcee
Character: Guy Holden
Released: October 12, 1934
Type: Movie
Seeking a divorce from her absentee husband, Mimi Glossop travels to an English seaside resort. There she falls in love with dancer Guy Holden, whom she later mistakes for the corespondent her lawyer hired.
bee
Flying Down to Rio
Title: Flying Down to Rio
Character: Fred Ayres
Released: December 22, 1933
Type: Movie
A dance band leader finds love and success in Brazil.
bee
Dancing Lady
Title: Dancing Lady
Character: Fred Astaire
Released: November 24, 1933
Type: Movie
Janie lives to dance and will dance anywhere, even stripping in a burlesque house. Tod Newton, the rich playboy, discovers her there and helps her get a job in a real Broadway musical being directed by Patch. Tod thinks he can get what he wants from Janie, Patch thinks Janie is using her charms rather than talent to get to the top, and Janie thinks Patch is the greatest. Steve, the stage manager, has the Three Stooges helping him manage all the show girls. Fred Astaire and Nelson Eddy make appearances as famous Broadway personalities.
bee
Cole Porter in Hollywood: Begin the Beguine
Title: Cole Porter in Hollywood: Begin the Beguine
Released: December 31, 1969
Type: Movie
An overview of Cole Porter’s musical contributions to the film Broadway Melody of 1940.