Review of The Band Wagon (1953) by Nadine S — 19 Sep 2009
Essentially, this is the broadway counterpart to 'singin' in the rain,' and the two films really belong together as a pair. both written by comden and greene; one about film, the other about theatre; one starring gene kelly, the other fred astaire.
it follows the production of a doomed broadway musical through a series of songs that are both about creating that musical, and from the various incarnations of the musical itself. fred astaire is wonderful as always, though it is really cyd charisse who shines.
her performance as both dancer and actress are poised and beautiful. she's like natalie portman with pirouettes. after seeing the film, I read of the tensions that existed during the making - ebert claims to see evidence of that tension in the film; perhaps you can, if you know to look for it.
charisse and astaire may have had a cold working relationship, but the story supports it - and their moonlight dance on a stage dressed to look like central park is a choreographic masterpiece. they may not have liked each other, but they did dance beautifully together.
This review of The Band Wagon (1953) was written by Nadine S on 19 Sep 2009.
The Band Wagon has generally received very positive reviews.
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