Easter Parade (1948) - IMDb IMDb There was an error trying to load your rating for this title. Some parts of this page won't work property. Please reload or try later. X Beta I'm Watching This! Keep track of everything you watch; tell your friends. Error A nightclub performer hires a naive chorus girl to become his new dance partner to make his former partner jealous and to prove he can make any partner a star. Director: From $2.00 (SD) on Amazon Video ON DISC a list of 31 titles created 15 Oct 2011 a list of 24 titles created 09 Mar 2012 a list of 36 titles created 26 Mar 2012 a list of 37 titles created 18 Sep 2013 a list of 43 titles created 19 Jul 2014 Search for " Easter Parade " on Amazon.com Connect with IMDb Want to share IMDb's rating on your own site? Use the HTML below. You must be a registered user to use the IMDb rating plugin. Won 1 Oscar. Another 1 win.

See more awards » Photos A small-town farmer, down on her luck, finds her homestead invaded by a theatrical troupe invited to stay by her ne'er-do-well sister. Director: Charles Walters A girl is engaged to the local richman, but meanwhile she has dreams about the legendary pirate Macoco. A traveling singer falls in love with her and to impress her he poses as the pirate. Director: Vincente Minnelli On a train trip West to become a mail order bride Susan Bradley meets a cheery crew of young women traveling out to open a " Harvey House " restaurant at a remote whistle stop to provide ... See full summary » Director: George Sidney A successful but constantly-feuding husband and wife musical comedy team threatens to break up when the wife entertains an offer to become a serious actress. Director: Charles Walters Two vaudeville performers fall in love, but find their relationship tested by the arrival of WWI. Director: Busby Berkeley A pretentiously artistic director is hired for a new Broadway musical and changes it beyond recognition. Director: Vincente Minnelli Tom and Ellen Bowen are a brother and sister dance act whose show closes in New York. Their agent books them in London for the same period as the Royal Wedding.

They travel by ship where ... See full summary » Director: Stanley Donen A film star helps a young singer and actress find fame, even as age and alcoholism send his own career on a downward spiral. Director: George Cukor An American dancer comes to Britain and falls for a model whom he initially annoyed, but she mistakes him for his goofy producer. Director: Mark Sandrich A budding romance between a ballet master and a tap dancer becomes complicated when rumors surface that they're already married. Director: Mark Sandrich A psychiatrist agrees to hypnotize his friend's girlfriend in order to convince her to accept his proposals of marriage, but she ends up falling for the psychiatrist instead. Director: Mark Sandrich Directors: Lemuel Ayers, Roy Del Ruth, and 5 more credits » Stars: William Powell, Judy Garland, Lucille Ball Edit Storyline Don Hewes and Nadine Hale are a dancing team, but she decides to start a career on her own. So he takes the next dancer he meets, Hannah Brown, as a new partner.

After a while this new team is so successful, that Florenz Ziegfeld is interested in them, but due to the fact that Nadine Hale dances also in the Ziegfeld Follies Don says no. In spite of the fact that he is in love with Hannah, he keeps the relation to her strictly business. So Hannah is of the opinion that he is still in love with Nadine, and her suspicion grows when he dances with Nadine in a Night Club Floor Show. Written by Stephan Eichenberg <eichenbe@fak-cbg.tu-muenchen.de> The Happiest Musical Ever Made is Irving Berlin's Easter Parade See more » Genres: 8 July 1948 (USA) See more » Also Known As: Irving Berlin's Easter Parade See more » Filming Locations: Mono (Western Electric Sound System) Color: Did You Know? Trivia The dye from the feather on Judy Garland 's hat in "Fella with an Umbrella" song, ran all over her face and jacket, so they coated it with vaseline. The feather looks different in two different shots. See more » Goofs Marty's hand movements on the piano do not match the notes being played.

See more » Quotes Mike the Bartender : What are you doing here by yourself? Hannah Brown : Oh, I don't know. I just wanted to get away for awhile. Mike the Bartender : Sure. Well, if there's anything I can do, breaking one's neck or anything like that, just say the word. Hannah Brown : No thanks, Mike. There isn't anything anyone can do. Mike the Bartender : Ah, don't say that. No man is that important. Plenty of fish left in the sea. You know it's always darkest just... Hannah Brown : Oh, Mike. I don't think you have a motto for my kind of problem. (Biloxi, Mississippi) – See all my reviews Originally intended as a re-teaming of Judy Garland and Gene Kelly, EASTER PARADE ran into trouble when Garland's doctors advised against her working under the direction of her husband, director Vincent Minnelli--and no sooner did director Charles Walters take the helm than Gene Kelly broke his leg. Out of such confusion are movie musical miracles born: although a bit old to act as Garland's leading man, Fred Astaire was coaxed out of retirement.

He and Garland had tremendous chemistry, EASTER PARADE was a box office smash, and Astaire unexpectedly found himself reborn as an MGM star. Set in 1900s New York, the film's story line is flimsy but enjoyable. After long-time dance partner Ann Miller abandons the act, Astaire hires chorus girl Garland and attempts to recast her in his former partner's mold--a situation which offers Astaire and Garland considerable comedy and gives Astaire the chance to parody several of his own famous dance of the 1930s. Garland eventually convinces Astaire that she needs to be herself, and once the act is revamped they become a hot ticket--and, once their several romantic complications are resolved, romantic partners as well. Astaire is every bit as charming here as he was in his Ginger Roger days, and his choreography retains his signature sharpness, wit, and elegance. Although Garland isn't really a dancer, she holds her own with Astaire and she tears strips off a brilliant score of Irving Berlin favorites.

Both are well supported by Anne Miller, who gives a brilliant turn with 'Shakin' the Blues Away,' and Peter Lawford, who is quite charming as one of Garland's admirers. Although this really isn't as inspired as the truly great MGM musicals of the late 1940s, director Walters keeps it going at a smart pace, and the star power, clever script, memorable score, and those legendary MGM production values elevate it well above the pack. Musical fans will be in for a treat! Recommended. Gary F. Taylor, aka GFT, Amazon Reviewer 26 of 30 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes 'Easter Parade,' With Berlin's Hit Tunes, Astaire's Nimble Feet, at Loew's State 'Easter Parade,' With Berlin's Hit Tunes, Astaire's Nimble Feet, at Loew's State By THE NEW YORK TIMES EASTER PARADE Starring Judy Garland and Fred Astaire.

ith seventeen Irving Berlin songs to record and with Fred Astaire, Judy Garland and Ann Miller itching to exercise their accomplished legs and adequate vocal chords, it's no wonder that the slim story line on which "Easter Parade" is spun is almost completely lost in the shuffle. But don't give that loss a second thought for the new Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer musical, which opened yesterday at Loew's State, is at its best when the boys and girls are on their toes. And since the song and dance routines are plentiful and varied in tempo and design the picture runs its close to two-hour course with only an occasional slip from high to low gear. Fred Astaire, who has no peer, is dancing at the top of his form and let's hope that he'll never again talk about retiring as he did after "Blue Skies," which came out in 1946 and co-featured a singer named Crosby. Maybe Mr. Astaire has turned his feet to more intricate steps in previous pictures, but for sheer simplicity and poetry of motion his dancing in "Easter Parade" would be difficult to equal, much less better.

In solo and in tandem with either Miss Garland or Miss Miller the incomparable Astaire glides effortlessly through the numerous routines. His opening number, dancing out an Easter shopping mission for his sweetheart, is gay and debonair and involves an intriguing contest with a small boy in a toy shop over the possession of the last remaining stuffed bunny. If the screen play were something more original than a conventional backstage romance, "Easter Parade" easily could have been a great musical instead of just a good one. For Mr. Astaire also is acting with consummate naturalness and the warmth of his personality more than compensates for some of the dog-eared things the script has him do. Although Judy Garland gets the top billing, she also gets stiff competition from the long-legged Ann Miller, who does an especially graceful ballroom dance with the master. Miss Garland is a competent trouper, nimble on her feet and professionally sound vocally, but somehow we feel that Miss Miller pairs better with Astaire. Technicolor and Irving Berlin's score, including seven new songs, serve as sturdy props.

The camera colors are particularly soothing and the music is always pleasant, though it might be mentioned that the new numbers are not each as fetching as "A Couple of Swells." The last is one of the best numbers in the show, with Astaire and Miss Garland decked out in rag-tag splendor. It provides a sprightly and engaging prelude to the finale, which finds Miss Garland an object of attention in the "Easter Parade" just as Astaire promised her she would be when her took her out of a cabaret chorus the year before after his partner deserted him for a Ziegfeld show. The straight performers in "Easter Parade" are few, but Peter Lawford is pleasant as the fellow who is around when the principals chose to misunderstand each others romantic intentions, and Jules Munshin has a very funny routine as a dining-room captain with a secret salad formula. "Easter Parade" may not strike the perfect balance between song-dance interludes and story, but it's an appealing show just the same.

Amazon.com: Easter Parade (Two Disc Special Edition): Judy Garland, Fred Astaire, Peter Lawford, Ann Miller, Margaret Bert, Peter Chong, Jimmy Bates, Ruth Hall, Helene Heigh, Doris Kemper, Joi Lansing, Lola Albright, Jeni Le Gon, Nolan Leary, Frank Mayo, Shirley Ballard, Howard Mitchell, Jules Munshin, Robert E. O'Connor, Albert Pollet, Harry Stradling, Charles Walters, Albert Akst: Movies & TV Screenplay: Albert Hackett, Frances Goodrich and Sidney Sheldon Composers: Irving Berlin, Johnny Green and Roger Edens Cinematography: Harry Stradling Sr.

Video Resolution: 1080p [Technicolor] Aspect Ratio: 1.37:1 Audio: English: 1.0 DTS-HD Master Audio Mono, Spanish: 1.0 Dolby Digital Mono, Spanish: 1.0 Dolby Digital Mono, German: 1.0 Dolby Digital Mono and Portuguese: 1.0 Dolby Digital Mono Subtitles: English SDH, French, Spanish, Portuguese and German SDH Running Time: 108 minutes Region: Region A/1 Studio: Warner Home Video Andrew's Blu-ray Review: "The happiest musical ever made," this is how M-G-M's publicity machine marketed 'Easter Parade' upon its initial release in 1948, and despite the passage of 65 years, the tagline still rings true today. As light and airy as a scrumptious soufflé, this joyous Irving Berlin confection features a whopping 17 of the composer's best loved tunes, and showcases the incomparable talents of Judy Garland and Fred Astaire in their only screen appearance together.

Add a sizzling tap routine by Ann Miller, the charm of Peter Lawford, and an inspired comic turn by Jules Munshin, and it's easy to see why 'Easter Parade' remains a perennial holiday favourite and one of America's most treasured musicals. Fred Astaire and Judy Garland make a marvellous team, but their dream coupling happened literally by accident, when original leading man Gene Kelly broke his ankle playing touch-football during rehearsals. At Gene Kelly's suggestion, producer Arthur Freed approached Fred Astaire as a replacement, but held out little hope of hiring him. The legendary dancer had been cooling his heels in retirement for two years, and hardly seemed eager to return to work. Yet he jumped at chance to team with Judy Garland, and despite a hefty 23-year age difference, the two enjoy a relaxed rapport during their musical and dramatic scenes that makes their fictional love affair utterly believable. A torn ligament forced Cyd Charisse to bow out of 'Easter Parade,' paving the way for Ann Miller to join the M-G-M ranks, and though Judy Garland's husband at the time, Vincente Minnelli, was initially pencilled in as director, marital stresses between the two forced Metro executives to rethink the decision.

On advice from Judy Garland's doctors, Arthur Freed dismissed Vincente Minnelli, and novice Charles Walters nabbed the plum assignment. The switch would prove fortuitous, as Walters' easy-going style better suits the movie's casual nature, allowing it to seamlessly juggle its cavalcade of musical numbers and the plot's substantial romantic complications. Those complications begin almost at once, as snappy vaudeville dancer Don Hewes [Fred Astaire] is unceremoniously dumped both professionally and personally by his ungrateful partner, Nadine Hale [Ann Miller], so she can star solo in a Ziegfeld Follies revue. In a fit of pique, a lovelorn Don Hewes randomly selects the unassuming, insecure, yet beguiling Hannah Brown [Judy Garland] from a saloon chorus line to groom as Nadine Hale's replacement, and vows within a year to make her the sensation of both the 1912 Broadway season and New York's famed Easter Parade. But instead of highlighting Hannah Brown's down-to-earth personality and potent pipes, Don Hewes insists she mimic Nadine Hale's more refined, sophisticated image.

Following a string of disastrous performances (and a comical tÃªte-á-tÃªte with Nadine Hale), Don Hewes realises his mistake, revamps the act, and begins to recognises Hannah's talent, beauty, and spirit. Most musicals feature a love triangle of some sort, but 'Easter Parade' goes a step further by creating a love square. Hannah silently pines for Don Hewes, who still carries a torch for Nadine, who aggressively pursues Don Hewes's best friend Johnny [Peter Lawford], who instantly falls for Hannah when they meet by chance during a downpour (and sing the sweet but silly ballad "A Fella with an Umbrella"). Amazingly, all the tangled relationships iron themselves out in the end, as the film deftly blends the vagaries of human emotion with the ebullience of musical comedy. Judy Garland once again combines heart-breaking vulnerability with impeccable comic timing (just watch how she proves to Fred Astaire she's a sexy dish) to create a totally unaffected portrayal.

Whether she's confessing her unrequited love for Don, venting her anger over his obsessive attitude toward work ("You're nothing but a pair of dancing shoes!"), or expressing joy at the prospect of Broadway success, Judy Garland is always completely genuine, and that all-too-rare quality as much as her peerless voice puts the audience in the palm of her hand. Her readings of the nostalgic "Michigan," plaintive "Better Luck Next Time" and ebullient title tune are letter-perfect, and although many cite "A Couple of Swells" (a classic number in which Judy Garland and Fred Astaire cavort as lovable tramps) as the picture's musical highlight, in my book, a medley of Irving Berlin standards capped by an exhilarating rendition of "When That Midnight Choo-Choo Leaves for Alabam" displays Judy Garland to even better advantage. Sure, Judy Garland's no Ginger Rogers, but she more than holds her own with Fred Astaire, and their dances together possess an infectious enthusiasm that more than compensates for the simplistic steps. Never fear, Fred Astaire tackles more complex moves during his solo routines, with typically thrilling results.

He shows off his trademark agility and dexterity in the opening "Drum Crazy" number, and creatively employs special effects for "Steppin' Out with My Baby" in which he dances in slow motion in the foreground (a gimmick that spotlights his supreme artistry), while the chorus performs at regular speed behind him. He also elegantly partners Ann Miller, who almost steals the film with her deliciously bitchy (yet endearingly comic) portrayal of the haughty Nadine Hale, and her show-stopping interpretation of Irvin Berlin's "Shakin' the Blues Away." One of the most enjoyable musicals ever made, 'Easter Parade' is a full-bodied experience, integrating songs, comedy, romance, and heartache with such panache it's no wonder it was M-G-M's top-grossing film of the year and a crowning achievement for the Arthur Freed Unit.

The studio, of course, quickly tried to duplicate the magic by re-teaming Judy and Fred on two subsequent occasions, but, sadly, illness prevented Judy Garland from completing either 'The Barkleys of Broadway' or 'Royal Wedding.' Although it's impossible not to rue such missed opportunities, they make us doubly appreciate the pair's appearance in 'Easter Parade,' and the energy, style, and expertise Judy Garland and Fred Astaire bring to this enduring Hollywood musical classic. Definitely a couple of swells, indeed. Blu-ray Video Quality - Easter Parade is all about colour, especially pastels in particular and with a sparkling, beautifully modulated with his stunning 1080p encoded image transfer, 'Easter Parade' looks as bright and lush as a freshly decorated holiday egg. The costumes (designed by Irene) sport a plethora of plumes, but the richly saturated hues never bleed. The yellow gloves and skirt Miller wears during "Shakin' the Blues Away" and the blazing red feather boa she brandishes throughout "The Girl on the Magazine Cover" possess exceptional vibrancy, and such subtle accents as Fred Astaire's colourful socks grab our attention like never before.

Although primary hues burst forth, the more muted pinks, lavenders, and pale greens possess equal depth and richness, making this a stellar representation of three-strip Technicolor. 'Easter Parade' first arrived on DVD in 2005 as one of Warner's flagship ultra-resolution offerings, and the results were largely fantastic. This Blu-ray edition seems to be a recycled version of that transfer, with slightly heightened resolution and more intense contrast upping the ante just a bit. Background elements are even more distinct this time around, especially the toys in the opening 'Drum Crazy' number, and accessories, like the aforementioned feathers and furs, possess striking levels of detail. The texture of fabrics is also more visible, as is the clarity of the rain in the "Fella With an Umbrella" sequence, lending the image additional presence and impact. Black levels are strong and inky, white variations in the gowns are easy to discern, and flesh tones, while leaning a smidge toward the rosy side, are generally true. Like the DVD, faint grain provides a lovely film-like appearance, and only a couple of errant specks dot the pristine print. A few shots seem slightly overexposed, but such instances are few and far between.

Typical of Warner classic releases, no digital enhancements disrupt the picture's purity, nor do imperfections such as banding, noise, or artefacts rear their ugly heads. Though it's not perfect (it doesn't quite match 'Singin' in the Rain' or 'An American in Paris'), this rendering of 'Easter Parade' still ranks as the best yet, and it's tough to imagine this classic musical looking any better than it does here. Musicals fans should be pleased as punch. Blu-ray Audio Quality - Because none of the 'Easter Parade' pre-recordings survive, Warner Bros. was unable to fashion an authentic 5.1 re-master at the time of the film's 2005 DVD release. That also means no 5.1 mix for the 2013 Blu-ray, but the 1.0 DTS-HD Master Audio track that is included provides well-scrubbed, distortion-free audio with plenty of tonal depth. A faint bit of hiss can be detected occasionally, but for the most part the sound is clean and pure.

Subtle accents such as street noise, footsteps, and rain are crisper here than on the previous track, and more musical nuances in the underscoring can be detected. Dialogue remains clear and comprehendible throughout, and song lyrics are always easy to understand, too. The musical sequences benefit from solid fidelity, from the strings on "Ragtime Violin" to the heavy brass that permeates "Steppin' Out With My Baby." The percussion on "Drum Crazy" possesses fine resonance and some palpable bits of boomy bass, while Miller's taps are snappily distinct and Garland's powerhouse vocals enjoy marvellous dynamic range and exude lush tonal depth. Whether singing a simple ballad, such as "Michigan" or letting loose on "I Love a Piano" and "When That Midnight Choo-Choo Leaves for Alabam," the vocal purity and engaging warmth that distinguish Judy Garland's performances come through beautifully here. The 'Easter Parade' track doesn't possess as much oomph and zing as those accompanying more modern musicals, but it more than suffices, and allows us to savour the magic of Judy Garland and Fred Astaire.

Blu-ray Special features and Extras: Commentary with Ava Astaire McKenzie and John Fricke: A delightful audio commentary by affable and supremely knowledgeable Judy Garland historian John Fricke and Fred Astaire's daughter, Ava Astaire McKenzie, is chock-full of fascinating information. At its best (which is pretty often), the informal, free-flowing track makes one feel like a fly on the wall at a cocktail party, eavesdropping on John Frick and Ava Astaire McKenzie (pronounced Ah-va) as they swap stories about Judy Garland and Fred Astaire. Some of the charming anecdotes include how the two stars devised their wardrobe for the immortal "A Couple of Swells" number; what happened when Irving Berlin tried to gently coach Judy Garland on how to perform one of his songs; and how Fred Astaire's reputation as a stern taskmaster initially intimidated Judy Garland. Ava Astaire McKenzie recalls her father's perfectionism, explains the evolution of the Fred Astaire name, and shares her early memories of Irving Berlin phoning her home, while John Fricke provides a comprehensive overview of the film's production intertwined with biographies of the cast and crew.

He divulges that Frank Sinatra, Kathryn Grayson, and Red Skelton were once considered for 'Easter Parade' supporting roles, details the excruciating back pain Ann Miller endured during the shooting of her dance numbers, and often quotes from the much darker and melodramatic original script that was wisely overhauled. Both John Fricke and Ava Astaire McKenzie have pleasant speaking voices, and their relaxed conversation and insightful observations make the track fly by. Documentary: Easter Parade: On the Avenue [34:25] This slickly produced, informative feature chronicles the film's production history through clips, photos, studio logs, and interviews. Writer Sidney Sheldon (yes, that Sidney Sheldon) discusses his extensive contributions to the script and how he successfully lightened the original screenplay's tone, while Ann Miller matter-of-factly recalls how an abusive husband kicked her down a flight of stairs when she was nine months pregnant, resulting in a stillbirth and causing the horrible back injury that plagued her throughout filming.

In addition, John Fricke and Ava Astaire McKenzie offer their perspective on the movie, but the documentary's biggest surprise is the appearance of Jimmy Bates, who, as a child, clutched the stuffed rabbit Astaire so desperately covets in the "Drum Crazy" number. Now an esteemed choreographer, Bates remembers his awestruck impressions of Astaire, Garland, and filmmaking in general, and the special gift Astaire gave him at the conclusion of shooting. Other great anecdotes from Sidney Sheldon, John Fricke, and Ava Astaire McKenzie spice up this typically fine Warner Bros. documentary. "Mr. Monotony" [Musical Outtakes] [3:09] First seen in 'That's Entertainment III,' this simple yet potent Judy Garland performance finds the star dressed in the identical outfit she donned for her iconic 'Get Happy' number in 'Summer Stock' two years later. With her patented magnetism, Judy Garland sexily struts her stuff to Irvin Berlin's odd but infectious melody, building to a thrilling climax. Trust me, it's anything but monotonous! Mr. Monotony [Dailies] [18:11] 'Mr.

Monotony' was quite a find when it was discovered in the M-G-M vaults, but an equally wondrous treasure is the extensive collection of dailies from which the finished product was culled. These alternate takes provide a fascinating look at the filmmaking process and the incredible effort that goes into performing and documenting a seemingly simple song and dance. An array of long shots, medium shots, and close-ups from various sections of the song, as well as Judy Garland's numerous curtain call attempts, are included. Watching Judy Garland clown around while she waits for the playback, then chime in on cue, and muster the same energy level and pitch-perfect execution in take after take after take makes one appreciate her talent, professionalism, and vivacious personality all the more. As icing on the cake, both the completed number and all the dailies have been magnificently restored, so they look and sound terrific.

Radio Promo [audio only] [4:24] Dick Simmons conducts an obviously scripted interview with Fred Astaire, in which the classy hoofer talks about his retirement, how the charms of 'Easter Parade' lured him back to the screen, his early vaudeville days with his sister Adele, and the importance of dance in everyone's daily lives. Vintage Radio Adaptation Broadcast [audio only] [54:00] This 1951 radio adaptation of 'Easter Parade' allows Judy Garland, Fred Astaire, and Peter Lawford the chance to reprise their film roles, while Monica Lewis fills in for Ann Miller. Peter Lawford narrates this truncated version, which deletes a few songs "A Couple of Swells" among them, and shifts the order of others, and substitutes "How Deep Is the Ocean" for "Shakin' the Blues Away." The story's essence, however, remains intact, and it's fun to hear how Judy and Fred interpret the slightly different script. Unfortunately, the audio quality is just a hair above atrocious, yet we're lucky the 54-minute adaptation exists at all, and Warner Bros. deserves kudos for including it, despite its compromised quality.

Theatrical Trailer [2:00] The re-release preview for 'Easter Parade' rounds off this disc supplements. Finally, 'Easter Parade' isn't just for Easter; it's a year-round celebration of the movie musical and the incomparable talents of Judy Garland and Fred Astaire. With a cavalcade of fine Irving Berlin tunes, top-flight vocals, elegant dancing, a breezy plot, and sumptuous Technicolor, this captivating Arthur Freed production remains one of M-G-M's crown jewels in the musical realm. Excellent video and audio transfers spruce up the release and despite the omission of an Emmy Award-winning Judy Garland documentary, a fine array of rare and entertaining supplements enhance our appreciation of this timeless classic. Though its reputation may not be as lofty as some of M-G-M's iconic musicals, in its own way, it's every bit as good. That is why I am so proud to add this to my ever increasing Judy Garland Blu-ray Collection. Very Highly Recommended! Andrew C. Miller - Your Ultimate No.1 Film Fan Le Cinema Paradiso Easter Parade | Moviepedia | Fandom powered by Wikia IMDb entry Easter Parade is a 1948 musical film starring Fred Astaire and Judy Garland .

It features music by Irving Berlin . The film was originally to have starred Gene Kelly, but Kelly was injured just prior to production and Astaire, who had announced his retirement from film, was coaxed back to replace him. (Astaire would "retire" several more times over the next decade, but he would also go on to make a number of additional classic musicals in-between retirements.) This film marked the major MGM debut of tap-dancer Ann Miller (who had previously been under contract to RKO ), replacing Cyd Charisse , who also had to bow out of the production. The film featured some of Astaire and Garland's best-known songs, including "Steppin' Out With My Baby" and "We're a Couple of Swells." One musical number, a seductive performance by Garland of "Mr.

Monotony" wearing the top half of a tuxedo and nylon tights (a style of dress which would become something of a trademark in later years after she wore the same outfit in 1950's Summer Stock ), was cut from the film as it was deemed too risque for a film supposedly set in 1912 (in fact, several song-and-dance sequenses, including Miller's "Shakin' the Blues Away," seem too risque for that era.) Audiences finally got to see this number (considered one of Garland's finest performances on film) in the 1990s when an edited version was included in the 1994 compilation film That's Entertainment III , though audiences wouldn't get to see the complete performance of "Mr. Monotony" until it was included in a special DVD box set of the three That's Entertainment films in 2004; it was subsequently included as a special feature on the 2005 DVD release of Easter Parade.

Easter Parade (1948) starring Judy Garland, Fred Astaire, Peter Lawford, Ann Miller, Jules Munshin, Clinton Sundberg directed by Charles Walters - movie review on The Movie Scene Astaire and Garland are Just Swell You are going to cause more excitement than an earthquake - Don Hewes "Easter Parade" is the sort of musical which I like and dislike, which may sound like a contradiction but it is not alone as there are many musicals which I like and also dislike. From a musical perspective what is there not to like when you have Fred Astaire and Judy Garland singing and dancing to an Irving Berlin soundtrack. But then you have the dislike and that comes from "Easter Parade" being a musical about a trio of performers and so whilst the actual storyline with an obvious romantic element is entertaining you end up getting musical numbers which are not part of the story but part of a character performing. It is a niggle which often spoils my enjoyment of a musical because you get songs which have no relevance to the story and no matter how well performed they are they often end up dragging things out.

When Nadine Hall (Ann Miller) decides to split from her dance partner Don Hewes ( Fred Astaire - Holiday Inn ) and strike out on her own he proclaims that he will find another dancer and maker her a greater star. That dancer and new partner comes in the form of Hannah Brown ( Judy Garland - Meet Me in St. Louis ) who Don spots dancing in a bar and sets about turning her into a star. And after a misfire or two it works as Hewes and Brown become major successes leading to them getting a call to sing and dance in a Ziegfield show. But their partnership becomes more as Hannah and Don fall for each other but she wonders whether he truly loves her or has feelings for Nadine, especially when he ends up in an impromptu dance with his former partner. There is a lot to like about "Easter Parade" and to be honest one of those things is the storyline. It is a storyline which is very familiar as Don Hewes whilst attempting to turn Hannah Brown into both his new partner and a star ends up falling for her.

It is shall we say a familiar premice which has featured in various musicals and romantic comedies over the years and so is the complications which come from his previous partner being still on the scene. As such there are very few surprises when it comes to the final outcome but is an enjoyable journey from start to finish as it takes us through a series of familiar issues. And what makes it an enjoyable journey is that between the singing and dancing of Astaire and Garland along with the Irving Berlin score it is never dull. The opening series of scenes which culminates with a fantastic dance routine in a toy shop as Astaire dances and sings whilst playing a series of drums is simply brilliant, stunning in the sheer energy of it. And that is not the only memorable scene as renditions of "Steppin' Out with My Baby" and "Easter Parade" are just as good although the show stopper for me is the comically genius "A Couple of Swells". But the problem for me and a problem which spoils lots of musicals is that with "Easter Parade" is a musical about performers we get various songs which feel irrelevant to the story.

Whilst watching Ann Miller sing and dance through "Shakin' the Blues Away" is a wonderful experience it adds nothing to the actual story, it's just her character performing on stage and ends up almost feeling like padding. Maybe it's just me because there is not a single duff song or dance in the whole of "Easter Parade" but I just prefer my musical numbers to aid in telling the story rather than just thrown in to showcase a stars talent which is too often the case here. Despite this it is impossible not to like a musical which features Fred Astaire and Judy Garland with both not only delivering fantastic musical scenes but also do a solid job of the story. Okay so as a romance it's hard to really feel any romantic spark between them but you do get the sense of fondness and fun which makes up for it. Just in the scene where they sing "A Couple of Swells" there is not only a sense of respect for each others talents but also a sense that they were having fun. And to be honest whilst Astaire and Garland are the stars they are aided by some good performances from Ann Miller who stars as Nadine Hale and Peter Lawford as Jonathan Harrow although both often mug to the camera a little too often for my liking.

Then there is Jules Munshin who has a very small part as Head waiter Franï¿½ois, a part which for the most is inconsequential except for a funny scene where he describes the preparation of his very special salad. It is a very funny scene, a scene which to be honest is padding and has no importance but will make you laugh. What this all boils down to is that "Easter Parade" is the perfect example of what I like and dislike about musicals. It is impossible not to like the singing and dancing of Fred Astaire and Judy Garland and it is equally as impossible not to like the Irving Berlin score. But then with this being a musical about performers there are various musical scenes which have nothing to do with the story but are there to showcase a stars talents and no matter how enjoyable they are they cause the story to stall. Latest Movie Reviews Easter Parade Movie Review, Trailer, Actors and NZ Screening Times Easter Parade A 1948 musical film starring Fred Astaire and Judy Garland. It features music by Irving Berlin. The film was originally to have starred Gene Kelly, but Kelly was injured just prior to production and Astaire, who had announced his retirement from film, was coaxed back to replace him.

The film featured some of Astaire and Garland's best-known songs, including "Steppin' Out With My Baby" and "We're a Couple of Swells." One musical number, a seductive performance by Garland of "Mr. Monotony" wearing the top half of a tuxedo and nylon tights (a style of dress which would become something of a trademark in later years after she wore the same outfit in 1950's Summer Stock), was cut from the film as it was deemed too risque for a film supposedly set in 1912. 1hr 47mins long Easter Parade (1948) -- (Movie Clip) Drum Crazy You will receive an email shortly to confirm your email address. Easter Parade (1948) -- (Movie Clip) Drum Crazy title details and video sharing options now playing Easter Parade (1948) -- (Movie Clip) Drum Crazy Fred Astaire (as performer "Don Hewes"), an avid drummer himself, raps out the Irving Berlin specialty number Drum Crazy, after the opening song and still before any dramatic scenes, n Arthur Freed's MGM production Easter Parade, 1948.

View the TCMDb entry for Easter Parade (1948) share video Easter Parade (1948) -- (Movie Clip) Drum Crazy Fred Astaire (as performer "Don Hewes"), an avid drummer... Easter Parade (1948) -- (Movie Clip)... Easter Parade (1948) -- (Movie Clip) Drum Crazy Fred Astaire (as performer "Don Hewes"), an avid drummer himself, raps out the Irving Berlin specialty number Drum Crazy, after the opening song and still before any dramatic scenes, n Arthur Freed's MGM production Easter Parade, 1948.> Easter Parade (1948) -- (Re-issue Trailer) Easter Parade (1948) -- (Re-issue Trailer) When his partner leaves him, a... Easter Parade (1948) -- (Re-issue Trailer) When his partner leaves him, a vaudeville star trains an untried performer to take her place in Easter Parade (1948) starring Judy Garland & Fred Astaire.> Easter Parade (1948) -- (Movie Clip) A Couple Of... Fred Astaire and Judy Garland (as the new team "Brown and...

Easter Parade (1948) -- (Movie Clip) A... Easter Parade (1948) -- (Movie Clip) A Couple Of Swells Fred Astaire and Judy Garland (as the new team "Brown and Hewes") perform the Irving Berlin tune A Couple Of Swells, dressed as bums, in the hit musical Easter Parade, 1948, produced by Arthur Freed.> Easter Parade (1948) -- (Movie Clip) Shakin'... Ann Miller (as "Nadine Gale," out to prove herself as a... Easter Parade (1948) -- (Movie Clip)... Easter Parade (1948) -- (Movie Clip) Shakin' The Blues Away Ann Miller (as "Nadine Gale," out to prove herself as a Ziegfeld solo act, sans Fred Astaire) in a typically blinding performance of the Irving Berlin tune Shakin' the Blues Away, choreographed by Robert Alton, in Easter Parade, 1948.> Easter Parade (1948) -- (Movie Clip) I Want To Go... The first Irving Berlin song for Judy Garland, as showgirl...

Easter Parade (1948) -- (Movie Clip) I... Easter Parade (1948) -- (Movie Clip) I Want To Go Back To Michigan The first Irving Berlin song for Judy Garland, as waitress-showgirl Hannah, who doesn't realize Fred Astaire really is the headliner Don Hewes, recently jilted and out to prove he can make any girl a star, early in Easter Parade, 1948, from MGM and Arthur Freed.> Ben Mankiewicz Intro -- Easter Parade (1948) Ben Mankiewicz introduces Easter Parade, 1948. Ben Mankiewicz Intro -- Easter Parade... Ben Mankiewicz Intro -- Easter Parade (1948) EasterParade_BenMIntro_042216_2RYW5>

Question: """Easter Parade"" (1948), starring Judy Garland and Fred Astaire, featured songs by whom?"
Answer: Irving Berlin