The Story Of Vernon And Irene Castle Full Movie
Released in 1939, “The Story of Vernon and Irene Castle” is a biographical film that chronicles the lives of Vernon and Irene Castle, a dancing duo who became famous during the early 1900s. The movie is directed by H.C. Potter and stars Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, who play the roles of Vernon and Irene, respectively. The film is a mix of romance, drama, and dance, and is a must-watch for anyone who loves classic Hollywood movies.
The Plot
The movie tells the story of Vernon and Irene Castle, who meet in New York City in 1911. Vernon is a struggling vaudeville performer who dreams of making it big, while Irene is a shopgirl who loves to dance. The two fall in love and decide to team up as dance partners, creating a new style that combines ballroom and modern dance. They become an instant sensation and soon become the darlings of the dance world.
As their fame grows, Vernon and Irene face many challenges, including the disapproval of Irene’s parents, who don’t approve of their daughter’s choice of profession. They also face tragedy when Irene contracts polio and is unable to dance. Despite the setbacks, the couple remains devoted to each other and their passion for dance.
The movie ends with a tribute to Irene, who died in a plane crash in 1918 while serving as a nurse in France during World War I. Vernon, who survived the crash, retired from dancing and became an aviation pioneer.
The Cast
The movie stars Fred Astaire as Vernon Castle and Ginger Rogers as Irene Castle. The two were a popular dancing duo in real life and had previously appeared in several movies together. The supporting cast includes Edna May Oliver as Mrs. Foote, Walter Brennan as Walter, and Lew Fields as Lew Fields.
The Music
The music in the movie is a mix of popular songs from the early 1900s and original compositions by Jerome Kern and Dorothy Fields. Some of the most memorable songs from the movie include “The Yama Yama Man,” “The Darktown Strutters’ Ball,” and “They Didn’t Believe Me.” The dance numbers in the movie are choreographed by Hermes Pan, who worked with Astaire and Rogers in several other movies.
The Reception
The movie was well-received by audiences and critics alike. It was praised for its performances, music, and costumes, and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Art Direction. The movie also helped to popularize the dance styles of the Castles and inspired a resurgence of interest in ballroom dancing.
Conclusion
“The Story of Vernon and Irene Castle” is a timeless classic that tells the tale of a remarkable couple who transformed the world of dance. The movie is a tribute to the Castles’ passion and dedication, and their enduring love for each other. With its memorable music and stunning dance numbers, the movie is a must-watch for anyone who loves Hollywood movies from the golden age of cinema.