Top Hat (1935): Dancing Through Elegance and Comedy

Genres: Comedy, Musical, Romance

Runtime: 1h 41m

Directors: Mark Sandrich

Writers: Dwight Taylor, Allan Scott, Aladár László

Story By: -N/A

Stars Cast: Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers

Producers: Pandro S. Berman

Release Date: 29 August 1935

IMDB Rating: 7.7/10

Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 100%

JustWatch Rating: 81%

Box Office Collection: $3.2 million

Famous Quotes: “Isn’t This a Lovely Day (To Be Caught in the Rain)?”

Where to Watch: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store

Step into the world of ‘Top Hat’ (1935), where elegance meets uproarious comedy in this timeless dance extravaganza. Directed by Mark Sandrich, this classic musical showcases the unmatched chemistry between Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, as they glide across the screen with effortless grace and wit.

Set against the backdrop of glamorous 1930s London, the film follows Jerry Travers (Fred Astaire), a charismatic American dancer who inadvertently stirs up romantic confusion. Mistaken identities, playful misunderstandings, and hilarious antics ensue, all woven together with Irving Berlin’s unforgettable music and lyrics.

As Jerry pursues the enchanting Dale Tremont (Ginger Rogers), the audience is treated to a whirlwind of dazzling dance numbers, including the iconic “Cheek to Cheek,” where Astaire and Rogers shimmer in perfect harmony. Their magnetic performances not only define the era’s style but also set a standard for cinematic romance that remains unparalleled.

Brief overview of the film’s premise and its significance in film history.

“Top Hat” (1935) is a romantic comedy musical directed by Mark Sandrich, starring Fred Astaire as Jerry Travers and Ginger Rogers as Dale Tremont. The film revolves around Jerry, an American dancer who travels to London to star in a show. While staying in a hotel, Jerry’s late-night tap dancing disturbs Dale, who lives in the room below. This leads to a misunderstanding that sets off a chain of comedic events, including mistaken identities and romantic entanglements.

Significantly, “Top Hat” is celebrated for its exquisite dance sequences, particularly the iconic “Cheek to Cheek” number performed by Astaire and Rogers. Their effortless chemistry and Astaire’s innovative choreography elevated the film to become a timeless classic in the genre of musicals.

In film history, “Top Hat” is noted for its contribution to the Golden Age of Hollywood musicals and for solidifying Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers as one of cinema’s most beloved on-screen pairs. It exemplifies the elegance and sophistication of 1930s cinema, showcasing elaborate set designs, glamorous costumes, and memorable songs by Irving Berlin. The film’s enduring popularity continues to influence modern musicals and remains a benchmark for romantic comedies in cinema history.

Mention of the Director 

“Top Hat” (1935) was directed by Mark Sandrich, a prominent figure in Hollywood during the Golden Age of cinema. Sandrich was known for his adeptness in directing musicals and comedies, making him a perfect fit for the whimsical and dance-filled world of “Top Hat.”

Mark Sandrich began his career in the silent film era and transitioned smoothly into the talkies, where he became renowned for his ability to choreograph and film intricate dance sequences with precision and flair. His direction of “Top Hat” not only showcased his technical prowess but also his keen understanding of pacing, comedic timing, and visual storytelling.

Under Sandrich’s direction, “Top Hat” flourished as a musical comedy that not only entertained audiences but also set a standard for elegance and sophistication in Hollywood musicals. His collaboration with Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers was particularly fruitful, as he expertly captured their on-screen chemistry and showcased their dance talents in a way that mesmerized audiences then and continues to do so today.

Sandrich’s contribution to “Top Hat” and other musicals of the era solidified his reputation as a director who could blend music, dance, comedy, and romance seamlessly, creating films that transcended their time and became timeless classics. His legacy in Hollywood remains influential, with “Top Hat” standing as a testament to his directorial vision and lasting impact on the genre of musical cinema.

Brief character backgrounds and their roles in the story.

Certainly! Here are brief character backgrounds and their roles in the story of “Top Hat” (1935):

Jerry Travers (Fred Astaire): Jerry Travers is a charismatic American dancer known for his tap dancing skills and carefree personality. In the film, Jerry travels to London to star in a show produced by his friend Horace Hardwick. His passion for dance is matched only by his penchant for getting into humorous misunderstandings. Jerry’s accidental tap dancing in his hotel room late at night leads to him being mistaken for a womanizer, setting off a series of comedic events.

Dale Tremont (Ginger Rogers): Dale Tremont is a fashionable and independent fashion model who becomes Jerry’s love interest. She first encounters Jerry when his tap dancing disturbs her sleep in the room below his at the hotel. Dale is initially annoyed by Jerry but soon finds herself attracted to his charm and sincerity. However, mistaken identities and misunderstandings complicate their budding romance throughout the film.

Madge Hardwick (Helen Broderick): Madge Hardwick is Dale’s witty and wise-cracking friend. She provides comic relief throughout the film and acts as a confidante to Dale. Madge often sees through the misunderstandings and tries to guide Dale through the complexities of her romantic entanglements, albeit with a humorous and sardonic wit.

Horace Hardwick (Edward Everett Horton): Horace Hardwick is a wealthy and somewhat befuddled friend of Jerry and the producer of the show in London. He is also Dale’s suitor, although his attempts to propose to her are repeatedly interrupted by the chaos caused by Jerry’s antics. Horace’s character adds a touch of irony and gentlemanly charm to the film’s ensemble cast, often finding himself unwittingly caught up in Jerry and Dale’s romantic complications.

Dance Magic: The Choreography of Fred Astaire

At the heart of ‘Top Hat’ lies Fred Astaire’s masterful choreography, which continues to mesmerize audiences decades after the film’s release. Astaire’s dance numbers, including the iconic “Cheek to Cheek,” showcase his unparalleled skill and innovation in tap dancing. Each dance sequence not only advances the plot but also serves as a visual feast of grace, rhythm, and artistic expression. Astaire’s chemistry with Ginger Rogers elevates their performances to an art form, creating moments of pure cinematic magic that define the film’s legacy.

Musical Brilliance: Irving Berlin’s Timeless Score

Irving Berlin’s music and lyrics provide the perfect soundtrack to ‘Top Hat,’ enhancing the film’s romantic and comedic elements. Songs like “Cheek to Cheek,” “Top Hat, White Tie and Tails,” and “Isn’t This a Lovely Day (To Be Caught in the Rain)?” are woven seamlessly into the narrative, capturing the mood and emotions of the characters. Berlin’s melodies not only complement Astaire and Rogers’ dance routines but also evoke the glamour and romance of 1930s Hollywood.

Themes and Messages: Romance and Comedy

At its core, ‘Top Hat’ is a romantic comedy that explores themes of mistaken identity, love, and the pursuit of happiness. The film’s plot revolves around Jerry’s persistent pursuit of Dale, which is complicated by misunderstandings orchestrated by supporting characters like Madge and Horace. Through witty dialogue and comedic situations, ‘Top Hat’ portrays the complexities of romance with humor and charm, offering a lighthearted yet poignant commentary on love and relationships.

Legacy and Impact of Top Hat (1935)

Since its release, ‘Top Hat’ has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema, influencing subsequent generations of filmmakers and performers. The film’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its timeless appeal, characterized by its elegant dance sequences, memorable music, and charismatic performances. Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers’ partnership in ‘Top Hat’ set a standard for on-screen chemistry and dance that has rarely been surpassed. Moreover, the film’s depiction of 1930s glamour continues to captivate audiences, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of Hollywood sophistication.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ‘Top Hat’ (1935) remains a cinematic masterpiece that embodies the essence of Golden Age Hollywood. Through its enchanting blend of dance, music, humor, and romance, the film continues to charm audiences of all ages. Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers’ iconic performances, coupled with Mark Sandrich’s deft direction and Irving Berlin’s timeless score, ensure that ‘Top Hat’ stands the test of time as a beloved classic. Whether you’re a fan of musicals, romance, or simply appreciative of cinematic artistry, ‘Top Hat’ promises to delight and entertain, offering a glimpse into a world where elegance and laughter reign supreme.