Watch The Barkleys of Broadway

The Barkleys of Broadway is a 1949 American musical film directed by Charles Walters and starring Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers, and Oscar Levant. It was the last film in which Astaire and Rogers appeared together, and their on-screen chemistry and dance numbers do not disappoint. The story follows the eponymous married couple, Josh and Dinah Barkley, who are successful Broadway performers. However, when Dinah decides to retire from show business to pursue a career in drama, their marriage begins to suffer. Josh tries to convince her to come back to Broadway, but his efforts only lead to further conflict between them.

Meanwhile, Josh partners with a young ballet dancer, named Shirlene May, to create a new dance production. Despite an initially rocky start, the two develop a friendship and a professional partnership that threatens Dinah's already fragile relationship with Josh.

As the plot unfolds, Dinah and Josh must confront their feelings for each other, their respective career ambitions, and their own insecurities. Along the way, they showcase their talents as performers in a series of memorable dance sequences that include tap, ballroom, and jazz styles.

While the plot may seem a bit outdated by contemporary standards, the film's musical numbers are timeless. Astaire and Rogers are both at the top of their game, with Astaire's effortless grace and Rogers' infectious charm captivating the audience from start to finish. The supporting cast, particularly Levant as Josh's acerbic best friend, adds some comedic relief to the film and balances out the dramatic moments.

The film's sets and costumes are also noteworthy, with vibrant colors and glittering designs that evoke the glitz and glamour of Broadway. The choreography, by Robert Alton, is equally impressive, seamlessly blending different dance styles to create a cohesive and visually stunning experience.

Overall, The Barkleys of Broadway may not be the most groundbreaking film of its time, but it is a testament to the talents of its leads and a testament to the enduring appeal of the Hollywood musical. It is a must-watch for fans of Astaire and Rogers, as well as anyone looking for a bit of nostalgia and escapism from the stresses of daily life.

The Barkleys of Broadway is a 1949 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 49 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0.