Roberta

Roberta is a classic American comedy-musical film released by RKO Radio Pictures in 1935. With a star-studded cast that includes Irene Dunne, Fred Astaire, and Ginger Rogers, this film quickly became an enduring classic of the 1930s Hollywood musical genre. Based on a novel by Alice Duer Miller and a subsequent Broadway musical by Jerome Kern and Otto Harbach, the film adaptation retained several of the stage production’s beloved songs without compromising its cinematic storytelling charm.

The film is primarily set in an upscale Parisian fashion house, Roberta's, well-known for its influential impact on the rapidly changing trends of haute couture. In this sumptuous setting replete with sparkling chandeliers, lush decors, and elegant gowns, a dynamic story unfolds, carrying audiences through laughter, romance, and the ebbs and flows of personal transformation.

Irene Dunne stars as the titular character, Roberta, a sophisticated and successful fashion designer. However, despite her professional acclaim, Roberta yearns for something more, a longing that’s felt in her heartfelt performance of the timeless classic, 'Smoke Gets in Your Eyes.' Dunne's performance is both heartfelt and nuanced as she masterfully conveys the trials and tribulations faced by Roberta in both her personal and professional life.

Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, renowned for their musical collaborations, depict a hypnotic on-screen chemistry that's a cornerstone of the film. Astaire plays the role of Huck Haines, the witty and charismatic leader of a jazz band who comes to Paris with his Orchestra, the Wabash Indianians, in search of fortune and fame. Rogers is Liz, a pseudo-contessa with an American background, whose path intertwines with Huck in a delightfully comedic twist of events.

Their dance sequences, interspersed elegantly throughout the film, showcase their impeccable skills and unrivaled chemistry. Their performances, particularly to the tunes of 'I'll Be Hard to Handle' and 'I Won’t Dance,' are an absolute feast for the eyes.

In the film, the glamorous world of Parisian haute couture intermingles with the rhythmic vibes of American Jazz, ensuring no shortage of enchanting music and dance numbers that are artfully woven within the narrative. It's as much a fashion show as it is a narrative piece, with show-stopping ensembles that dazzle as much as the stars wearing them.

The supporting cast includes Randolph Scott, Helen Westley, and Claire Dodd who each lend memorable performances that contribute meaningfully to the plot. The film, under the capable direction of William A. Seiter, maintains a vibrant and energetic tone throughout, accommodating both dramatic and comedic turns with seasoned panache.

A mark of a successful musical comedy, Roberta seamlessly blends narrative storytelling with captivating performances, lavish production values, and inspiring music, effortlessly holding the audience's attention from beginning to end. The soundtrack that accompanies the film has since become a classic, witnessing the birth of songs that have retained their popularity even decades later.

The cinematography of Roberta, handled by Edward Cronjager, deserves a special mention. The camera gracefully moves amongst the actors, lending an almost dream-like quality to scenes, especially during the music and dance numbers. Paris is portrayed as a city of light, fashion, and romance, elevating the narrative to an almost fairytale-like realm.

In conclusion, Roberta is more than just a movie; it's a mesmerizing piece of cinema that encapsulates the charm, glitz, and glamor of 1930s Hollywood. From its bell-toned dialogue to its larger-than-life characters, from its trendy fashions to its unforgettable song and dance numbers, Roberta is a perfect example of a timeless musical that transcends the era of its creation. It continues to remain an important entry in the pantheon of American cinema and an enduring testament to the talents of Irene Dunne, Fred Astaire, and Ginger Rogers. With its exuberant charm and energy, Roberta is a cinematic tour de force that will continue to captivate audiences for generations to come.