Watch The Pleasure of His Company

The Pleasure of His Company is a romantic comedy film from 1961, starring legendary actor and dancer Fred Astaire alongside Lilli Palmer and Debbie Reynolds. The movie is directed by George Seaton and is based on a Broadway play of the same name by Samuel A. Taylor. The story follows San Francisco socialite Jessica Poole (played by Palmer) as she prepares for her daughter's wedding. The only problem is that her ex-husband, Biddeford ‘Pogo’ Poole (played by Astaire), whom she hasn't seen in 15 years, suddenly shows up, determined to be part of the festivities. Despite the rocky past and the fact that Pogo left her soon after they got married, Jessica can't seem to shake him off.

As Pogo tries to get back in the good graces of his ex-wife, Jessica tries to keep him from disrupting her daughter's wedding. But Pogo proves to be quite the charmer, and he has a way of winning over everyone he meets, including Jessica's daughter and her fiancé. Meanwhile, Jessica reconnects with her old flame (played by Glenn Ford), which only complicates her relationship with Pogo.

Much of the movie's charm comes from Astaire's performance as the lovable but slightly hapless Pogo. Despite his flaws, he's a character you can't help but root for as he tries to win back his ex-wife's affection. His dancing skills are put to good use in a few scenes, including a memorable dance number with Debbie Reynolds.

Palmer is equally impressive, bringing a certain elegance and poise to the role of Jessica. She's the perfect foil to Astaire's more mischievous character, and their interactions are the heart of the film. Reynolds also shines in her limited screen time, bringing her natural charm to the role of Jessica's daughter.

The film is set against the backdrop of 1960s San Francisco, and there are plenty of scenic shots of the city throughout. The costumes and sets are also noteworthy, capturing the stylishness of the era in a way that feels timeless.

While The Pleasure of His Company may not have the same cultural cache as some of Astaire's other classics, it's a delightful film that's sure to put a smile on your face. It's a romantic comedy that balances humor and heart in just the right way, making it an enjoyable watch for fans of the genre.

Overall, The Pleasure of His Company is a charming film that showcases the talents of some of Hollywood's most beloved actors. Don't miss this delightful romantic comedy filled with humor, heart and irresistible dance numbers.