Follow the Fleet

Follow the Fleet is a 1936 American musical comedy film directed by Mark Sandrich and distributed by RKO Radio Pictures. It features the iconic on-screen pairing of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, with a supporting cast that includes Randolph Scott, Harriet Hilliard, Astrid Allwyn, and Beta Sigma Omicron.

The delightful pairing of Astaire and Rogers, who seize the screen with their dynamic dance routines and enchanting chemistry, solidified Follow the Fleet as one of the gems of Hollywood’s golden age. Both stars’ remarkable performances are amplified by an array of nostalgic Irving Berlin tunes, including memorable hits like "Let's Face the Music and Dance" and "I'm Putting all My Eggs in One Basket."

In Follow the Fleet, Fred Astaire plays the role of 'Bake' Baker, a jovial, carefree sailor with commendable prowess in dance. His counterpart, Ginger Rogers, portrays 'Sherry' Martin, a dance hall girl with dreams of stardom. Astaire's character is an ex-vaudeville performer who has joined the Navy following a personal disappointment, while Rogers' character is an aspiring club performer struggling to succeed. The duo knew one another in the past, and the film chronicles their chance reunion when Baker's fleet comes ashore in San Francisco.

Fred Astaire's striking charm and Rogers’ endearing vulnerability make for a captivating romantic subplot. Their characters navigate the complexity of their past and the uncertainties of their future, showcasing their undeniable chemistry. They skilfully balance the light-hearted banter with emotional sincerity, resulting in a soulful and resonating narrative intertwined within the film's comedic setup.

The plot also introduces supporting characters Connie and Bilge, played by Harriet Hilliard and Randolph Scott, respectively. Bilge’s involvement with Connie adds another layer to the storyline, providing an engaging subplot that beautifully complements the primary narrative. Additionally, Randolph Scott’s performance as an emphatic romantic interest serves as a wonderful contrast to Astaire’s comedy-driven characterization.

Follow the Fleet's dialogue and storyline are masterfully retained in their raw and authentic nature, allowing for a fresh reprieve from the oftentimes heavy-handed dramatic nature of musicals of its time. The film also delivers a surge of captivating song and dance sequences, choreographed to perfection. Particularly, the dance sequences filled with Astaire and Rogers' signature wingtip-tapping movements are a sight to behold, acting as brilliant spectacles within the storyline.

Mark Sandrich's expert direction combines the visual flair of the 1930s with the spunk of its music, creating a timeless masterpiece. The elaborately designed sets, purposefully lit scenes, and the visually appealing costume designs imbues the film with a distinct 1930s aesthetic that is hard to replicate. Each frame of the film seems like a classic 1930s postcard, which adds to the film’s overall allure.

The comedic timing of the characters and the witty repartee in the dialogue make for a delightful concoction of entertainment. Herman J. Mankiewicz's punchy script peppered with one-liners and Benjamin Glazer’s adroit screenplay permit for a natural delivery of comedy without forsaking the narrative's balance.

Irving Berlin's unforgettable score aids in providing a steady rhythm to the storyline and complements the dance sequences flawlessly. Berlin’s enchanting melodies breathe life into the story, interspersing the drama with sequences that allow Astaire and Rogers to showcase their compelling dance routines. Each song serves as a climactic point in the plot, leading the audience on a melodious journey through the narrative.

Follow the Fleet is more than just a musical comedy. It’s a vivid snapshot of 1930s pop culture, a pioneering vessel of the golden-era Hollywood musicals. It beautifully interweaves romance, humor, and sterling performances into the musical genre, setting a benchmark for the films that followed. The myriad elements of the film come together to encapsulate the charm and grace of the era while offering a compelling narrative that resonates through time. Whether you’re a fan of the Astaire-Rogers duo, a classic film aficionado, or a lover of the musical genre, Follow the Fleet is an upbeat, delightful cinematic experience one must not miss.