Customer Reviews

Swing Time DVD Authentic Region 1 Starring Fred Astaire & Ginger Rogers 1936

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In my view, this is simply one of the finest musical films ever made. In fact, it's one of the finest films ever made in any genre. To this day, its music, lyrics, and dancing permeate American culture. Obama quoted from it, in his inauguration speech. I have reviewed the VHS version, so of course, I can say the same thing for the DVD. So...See my previous review, which mainly covers my take on the plot: Swing Time [VHS]

Since I wrote the review, I had the good fortune to see this film on full screen in Baltimore. What comes across, even more on the big screen, is the sheer physicality of the dancing....and this film has PLENTY of dancing. "The Waltz in Swing Time" has been described as one of the most choreographically intricate and complex dances between a man and woman of all time. All I can say is that, it's danced with such pace, power, assurance, grace, and vivacity by Ginger Rogers, that this alone, is worth the purchase. By this time she had developed, under Fred's and Pan's unrelenting requirements, tremendous self-discipline, strength, and self-confidence. My God, is she convincing!

Their other two dances are also masterpieces of their genres. "Pick Yourself Up", in tap, is a tapestry of energetic tap "barrages"...with a brilliant plot set-up. And "Never Gonna Dance", in ballroom style, is simply one of the most poignant and elegant of all their dances...the noted high point of their art.

And not to forget Fred's great solo...."Bojangles of Harlem"...which is also a brilliant use of special effects, along with Fred's usual spot-on high level performance.

Well...This is the dance part of my original review of the VHS. Buy this DVD, and be fully assured, that you will enjoy it, and more....you will be awed, by the sheer dedication, joy, and vivacity, of these two masters...augmented by some of the best comedy...and extraordinary songs and lyrics, in any of their ten films. Dear reader, did I mention, I recommend this film with my highest possible rating?