Shall We Dance

Starring:Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers, Edward Everett Horton, Eric Blore, Jerome Cowan, Ketti Gallian, William Brisbane, Harriet Hoctor, Tiny Jones, Jean De Briac, Vesey O'Davoren, George Magrill, Pete Theodore, William Burress, Torben Meyer, Harry Bowen, Marek Windheim, Leonard Mudie, Dudley Dickerson, Alphonse Martell
Director: Mark Sandrich, Friz Freleng
Studio: Turner Home Ent
Product Type: DVD

Editorial Review:
Amazon.com
The chemistry between Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers was still going strong in their seventh spin around the dance floor, Shall We Dance? And this time--amidst the usual improbable plot confusions and on-again, off-again flirting between the two--they were backed up by a song score provided by the matchless George and Ira Gershwin. Among the highlights are "They All Laughed," "Let's Call the Whole Thing Off," and the Oscar-nominated "They Can't Take That Away from Me." Director Mark Sandrich, the most frequent helmer of the Astaire-Rogers pictures (including Top Hat), creates a gleaming showcase for his stars. He also brings back two devilish character actors, Edward Everett Horton and Eric Blore, to repeat their support from previous outings. Ginger is kicky and fun; she was one of the few partners who didn't look intimidated onscreen by Astaire's incomparable dancing skills. Fred is in great form himself--so good you almost believe it when he pretends to be a Russian. --Robert Horton
Description
To keep musical-comedy star Linda Keene from retiring to marry, her manager Arthur Mille, suggests to the press that she's already married to Petrov, the ballet dancer. The two ultimately decide to marry so that they can have very public divorce and clear the air, but true love blossoms between them.

DVD Features:
Audio Commentary:Commentary by Kevin Cole and Hugh Martin
Featurette:They Can?t Take That Away from Me: The Music of Shall We Dance
Other:Musical Short Sheik to Sheik and Classic Cartoon Toy Town Hall

Average customer rating:

The Original Shall We Dance
Shall we sit this dance out - I've two left feet.
Original 'Shall We Dance?'
Pure enchantment in any language
A delightfully realistic slice of Japan

Shall We Dance?
Starring: Kôji Yakusho , Tamiyo Kusakari , Naoto Takenaka , Eriko Watanabe , and Yu Tokui
Director: Masayuki Suo
Manufacturer: Miramax
ProductGroup: DVD
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Similar Items:

Strictly Ballroom
Shall We Dance? (Widescreen Edition)
Mad Hot Ballroom
Dance with Me
Burn the Floor

ASIN: B0002V7S34
Release Date: 2005-02-01

Amazon.com

On his evening commute, bored accountant Sugiyama (Koji Yakusho) always looks for the beautiful woman who gazes wistfully out the window of the Kishikawa School of Dancing. One night he gets off the train, walks into the studio, and signs up for a class. Soon Sugiyama is so engrossed in his dancing he practices his steps on the train platform and under his desk, and becomes good enough for competition, compelling his wife to hire a private investigator to find out why he stays out late and returns home smelling of perfume. Among the colorful characters Sugiyama meets is his coworker Aoki (Naoto Takenaka), who transforms himself from geeky systems analyst to hilariously flamboyant (and bad-wigged) lounge lizard. Aoki explains to Sugiyama, "When I finish work, put on the clothes, the wig and become Donny Burns, Latin world champion, and I start to move to the rhythm, I'm so happy, so completely free." Here lies the chief charm of Shall We Dance, the contrast between the ultracompetitive women of the studio--including the one who caught Sugiyama's eye, Mai (Tamiyo Kusakari)--and the men who dance simply because they enjoy it. This 1996 film is somewhat comparable to the flamboyant Aussie favorite Strictly Ballroom, but Shall We Dance is especially noteworthy for contrasting the boldness of social dance with the buttoned-up societal mores of Japan, where people avoid public displays of emotion. Even in Japan, the joy of dance is irresistible. --David Horiuchi

Description

Here's the irresistible comedy treat that had critics and audiences cheering all across America ... and inspired the new Hollywood hit starring Richard Gere (CHICAGO), Jennifer Lopez (MAID IN MANHATTAN), and Susan Sarandon (DEAD MAN WALKING). A middle-aged workaholic's incredibly dull life takes a funny turn when he signs up for a ballroom dance class -- just to meet the sexy dance teacher. But when he finally muscles up the nerve for lessons he winds up with a different instructor and her colorfully eccentric class of beginners! And now he'll have to step lightly -- and do some fancy footwork -- if he expects to keep his new secret passion from his family and friends! You'll love every minute of this crowd-pleasing motion picture!

Customer Reviews:

The Original Shall We Dance.......2007-07-04

When I first viewed this film it was before they released an American version staring Richard Gere. I had enjoyed this film so much that I could only think that Richard Gere and some others in Hollywood also must have liked it. I had little desire to see a remake of this film since as the film begins the narrator speaks of how dancing is a western concept that makes small allowances for the Japanese private culture. This is the charm of Shall We Dance in that a Japanese businessman is lured into stepping out of his world when watching a dance instructor from his evening home bound train. I was caught up imagining what it would be like to be in his shoes or even some of the other characters such as his wife or one of the other dance instructors. All the characters are colorful especially some whom do not exemplify traditional Japanese behavior. Yes I can not imagine this film being as endearing filmed in the Western version. An interesting look at japanese culture and Western influences upon it.

Shall we sit this dance out - I've two left feet........2007-06-27

I had heard that this was really worthwhile DVD to see. I was disappointed. I felt that the acting was wooden & the film didn't move along - it had a tendency to get bogged down. Also the stars seemed to be self-conscious when dancing. I had seen "Shall We Dance" with Richard Gere & Jennifer Lopez before I saw the Japanese version & felt that it had big shoes to fill. I wasn't wrong. Richard Gere's "Shall We Dance"? is streets ahead with an immensely watchable film.

Original 'Shall We Dance?'.......2007-06-24

At long last, 'Shall We Dance?' is available in the DVD format. I LOVE this film for many reasons. First, you can see what the ordinary Japanese semi-middle class family life is like. No guns or swords, no blood, no samurai or soldiers - this is a very cultural film about modern Japan. Secondly, this movie shows how much the Japanese people admire the European culture (in this film's case the ballroom dancing, sportsmanship, and Blackpool!). If you are, or thinking about, learning Japanese, listen to how Tamako-sensei (the elderly female dance teacher) speaks. As well as speaks gently, she show the gentle heart of the traditional Japanese lady. Koji Yakusho (Memoirs of a Geisha, Babel) has proved he is one of the most brilliant actors in Japan, and my favourite one is definitely Naoto Takenaka, who plays a funny funny bloke who specialises Latin dance to fill the 'gap' in his everyday life and hopefully find a nice girl too.
FYI: Obviously I have already seen the Hollywood version of this film, but it's not the same thing at all. It's supposed to be a re-make of this Japanese original, but, in my view, it's a little bit too 'westernised' and almost feels like a different film. Maybe you can make your own judgement by watching this original version first? I'm sure you'll enjoy it!

Pure enchantment in any language.......2007-05-27

I happened to catch this film on television one day, and was completely enchanted by it. Even though I don't usually seek out subtitled films, I was so thrilled with the expressive sweetness of this program I couldn't stop watching. Now I check it out from the local library whenever I get the change and have it on my wish list.
I've seen the American remake, and while it's pretty good there is definitely something lost in the translation. I agree with another reviewer who says the Japanese setting is really the only true fit for this gem.

A delightfully realistic slice of Japan.......2007-05-22

After living 11 years in Japan before returning to the states, my wife and I feel that each time we view Shall We Dance we're transported back. This movie will not only entertain you, but give you a real sense of what a Japanese business man experiences in life. We've shared this movie with families, graduate students and friends, and all have enjoyed it. I highly recommend this movie.

Astaire & Rogers Ultimate Collector's Edition (Flying Down to Rio / The Gay Divorcee / Roberta / Top Hat / Follow the Fleet / Swing Time / Shall We Dance / Carefree / The Story of Vernon and Irene Castle / The Barkleys of Broadway)

Average customer rating:

Dazzling and Beautiful
A set of classics
BEWARE!
a thesaurus of musicals in a package for musicals lovers
UNEXPECTED BONUS

Astaire & Rogers Ultimate Collector's Edition (Flying Down to Rio / The Gay Divorcee / Roberta / Top Hat / Follow the Fleet / Swing Time / Shall We Dance / Carefree / The Story of Vernon and Irene Castle / The Barkleys of Broadway)
Starring: Fred Astaire , and Ginger Rogers
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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( A ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video

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ASIN: B000H6SXME
Release Date: 2006-10-24

Amazon.com

2006 marks the arrival of five Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers films (Flying Down to Rio, The Gay Divorcee, Roberta, Carefree, and The Story of Vernon and Irene Castle) on DVD after the first five were released in 2005. The big package is this Astaire & Rogers Ultimate Collector's Edition, which contains all 10 films plus a CD, a bonus DVD with the documentary Astaire and Rogers: Partners in Rhythm, press-book replicas, and some other material. If you want the big package with the extra stuff but already bought the five films in 2005, you can get the Astaire & Rogers Partial Ultimate Collector's Edition, which includes everything except the actual discs of those first five films. Or, if you only want the five new films, pick up Astaire & Rogers Collection, Vol. 2 as a bookend to Astaire & Rogers Collection, Vol. 1.

The Astaire-Rogers films mix light romantic comedy (usually centered around mistaken identities and ending, inevitably, in blissful wedding promises) with elegant dinner wear and surreal sets intended to transport '30s audiences away from the Depression to such locales as Rio, Paris, and Venice. The two stars are also aided by a recurring stable of RKO players such as Edward Everett Horton (master of the double-take), Eric Blore, and Helen Broderick. And then there's that sensational dancing set to great songs by the likes of Irving Berlin, George and Ira Gershwin, and Jerome Kern, numbers that are not merely entertaining but also innovative for their time in that they reveal character and advance the plot. Add it all up, and you have a recipe for an irrepressible joie de vivre that practically defines the movie musical.

Flying Down to Rio (1933) headlined Dolores Del Rio and Gene Raymond, but it was the fourth- and fifth-billed stars who would rewrite cinematic history. Astaire and Rogers had limited screen time, but were still able to establish many of the trademarks of their later films. The heart of the film is "The Carioca," a company dance extravaganza in which they take the floor together for the first time; their eyes meet and their foreheads touch. Their dance lasts only a few minutes, but it was the highlight of the film and audiences wanted more. The Gay Divorcee (1934) is their best early picture, a loose adaptation of Astaire's stage show, 'The Gay Divorce.' The only song retained for the movie is Cole Porter's smash hit "Night and Day," which is the setting for a sublime pas de deux between Fred and Ginger. The closer is the sprawling 17-minute ensemble number "The Continental." Roberta (1935) was a step backward, with too much time spent on 1930s Parisian fashion and the romance between top-billed Irene Dunne (who gets the best Jerome Kern ballads, "Yesterdays" and "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes") and Randolph Scott. But as the second-banana couple Astaire and Rogers still get a tap battle, a romantic duet, and plenty of comic banter.

With a score by Irving Berlin, Top Hat (1935) is most famous for two numbers, Astaire's definitive tuxedo setting "Top Hat, White Tie, and Tails" and the feathery duet "Cheek to Cheek." But other joys include Astaire's "Fancy Free" declaration, "Isn't It a Lovely Day," and the grand finale "The Piccolino." Follow the Fleet (1936) changes the pace a bit, with Astaire playing a sailor, and it suffers from making him and Rogers the second-banana couple to the dull Randolph Scott and Harriet Hilliard. But it still has plenty of laughs and some classic Irving Berlin numbers, including "Let Yourself Go," which Rogers sings before she and Astaire compete in a dance contest; a Rogers solo tap number; "I'm Putting All My Eggs in One Basket," their best comic dance. The pièce de résistance is "Let's Face the Music and Dance," a show within a show in which the pair dons their customary evening formals. Effortlessly flowing from pantomime to song to dance, this sublime piece of storytelling is one of the series' defining moments. Maybe their most enjoyable picture, Swing Time (1936) features the set-piece "Pick Yourself Up," in which Rogers "teaches" Astaire to dance before they break into a spectacular number; the farewell ode "Never Gonna Dance," and the Oscar-winning "Just the Way You Look Tonight," from the team of Jerome Kern and Dorothy Fields.

Shall We Dance (1937) has a complex plot that has Astaire and Rogers actually getting married before the final credits roll, and turns George and Ira Gershwin's brilliant "They Can't Take That Away from Me" into a heartbreaking ode. Other great songs include "Slap That Bass," "They All Laughed," and "Let's Call the Whole Thing Off," unforgettably performed on roller skates. The eighth and ninth entries in the series tried some different approaches, with the underrated Carefree (1938) more of a comedy vehicle for Ginger (yet still including some fine dances and Irving Berlin songs as well as their first onscreen kiss) and The Story of Vernon and Irene Castle (1939) portraying the pair as historical dancing stars and using a score of turn-of-the-century standards. The Barkleys of Broadway (1949) is the oddity, reuniting the stars 10 years after their last RKO picture when Judy Garland had to be replaced due to health problems. It's trademark MGM: splashy colors, Fred in a gimmicky solo number (playing sorcerer's apprentice to a line of unoccupied shoes), Oscar Levant providing his usual dynamic pianism and acerbic personality, and a score that is at its best when it borrows songs from a previous generation (including the big ballroom number set to "They Can't Take That Away from Me"). The film falls short of their best work, but serves as a fond remembrance of the most glorious partnership in film history. --David Horiuchi

Customer Reviews:

Dazzling and Beautiful.......2007-04-20

Ibelieve everything has been said already of Rogers and Astaire.The two together on the screen is magical and entertaining.Funny whitty beautiful.The music by some othe greatest composer such as Berlin costumes by the best of Hollywood is a treat for the eyes.You will not be dissapointed,when you are feeling low his will make you sore to the sky.Get it.

A set of classics.......2007-02-28

If you enjoy Fred & Ginger, you need their entire set of these classics. The dialogue can be a little corny at times, but so was yours when you were young. They practiced for hours, and it shows.

BEWARE!.......2007-02-19

Twice I ordered this set for my wife, and each time the package arrived with DVDs missing from the set! All the containers were there, but as many as five (5) DVDs were gone. What a joke. I gave up and purchased the set at Borders. Does Amazon care? Never heard from them.

a thesaurus of musicals in a package for musicals lovers.......2007-02-19

each movie starring Fred and Ginger can be considered as a jewel; so is this collector's edition with bonus of value ( many photographs "off screen", newspapers articles,...) certainly collected by a true lover who aimed to enjoy the buyer.

UNEXPECTED BONUS.......2007-02-10

A GIFT FOR MY WIFE-OUR CATS ARE NAMED FRED&GINGER-SHE WAS PLEASED TO FIND THE PRINTED ITEMS(MINI-POSTERS,ETC.)

Astaire & Rogers Collection, Vol. 1 (Top Hat / Swing Time / Follow the Fleet / Shall We Dance / The Barkleys of Broadway)

Average customer rating:

JAR
GREAT MOVIES!
the astaire collection volume 1
A Real Classic
Astaire & Rogers

Astaire & Rogers Collection, Vol. 1 (Top Hat / Swing Time / Follow the Fleet / Shall We Dance / The Barkleys of Broadway)
Starring: Fred Astaire , Ginger Rogers , Edward Everett Horton , Erik Rhodes , and Eric Blore
Director: Mark Sandrich , and George Stevens
Manufacturer: Turner Home Ent
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B0009NSCR6
Release Date: 2005-08-16

Description

You'll Love The Way Fred and Ginger Look Tonight in the 5-film, 5-Disc Astaire and Rogers Collection Volume One, including the highly acclaimed Top Hat and Swing Time.

Amazon.com

Fans of classic movie musicals will be in heaven with Astaire & Rogers Collection, Vol. 1, featuring the DVD debut of five films of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, the quintessential dancing duo. The two gems of the set are Top Hat (1935), generally considered their definitive movie, and Swing Time (1936), which many consider their most enjoyable. Follow the Fleet (1936), Shall We Dance (1937), and The Barkleys of Broadway (1949) fill out the set, each with its own charms.

Follow the Fleet

With a score by Irving Berlin, Top Hat is most famous for two numbers, Astaire's definitive tuxedo setting "Top Hat, White Tie, and Tails" and the feathery duet "Cheek to Cheek." But other joys include Astaire's "Fancy Free" declaration, "Isn't It a Lovely Day," and the grand finale "The Piccolino." Favorite musical moments in Swing Time include the set-piece "Pick Yourself Up," in which Rogers "teaches" Astaire to dance before they break into a spectacular number; the farewell ode "Never Gonna Dance," and the Oscar-winning "Just the Way You Look Tonight," from the team of Jerome Kern and Dorothy Fields.

Swing Time

Follow the Fleet changes the pace a bit, with Astaire playing a sailor, and it suffers from making him and Rogers the second-banana couple to the dull Randolph Scott and Harriet Hilliard. But it still has plenty of laughs and some classic Irving Berlin numbers, including "Let Yourself Go," which Rogers sings before she and Astaire compete in a dance contest; a Rogers solo tap number; "I'm Putting All My Eggs in One Basket," their best comic dance. The pièce de résistance is "Let's Face the Music and Dance," a show within a show in which the pair dons their customary evening formals. Effortlessly flowing from pantomime to song to dance, this sublime piece of storytelling is one of the series' defining moments. Shall We Dance has a complex plot that has Astaire and Rogers actually getting married before the final credits roll, and turns George and Ira Gershwin's brilliant "They Can't Take That Away from Me" into a heartbreaking ode. Other great songs include "Slap That Bass," "They All Laughed," and "Let's Call the Whole Thing Off," unforgettably performed on roller skates. The Barkleys of Broadway is the oddity, reuniting the stars 10 years after their last RKO picture when Judy Garland had to be replaced due to health problems. It's trademark MGM: splashy colors, Fred in a gimmicky solo number (playing sorcerer's apprentice to a line of unoccupied shoes), Oscar Levant providing his usual dynamic pianism and acerbic personality, and a score that is at its best when it borrows songs from a previous generation (including the big ballroom number set to "They Can't Take That Away from Me"). The film falls short of their best work, but serves as a fond remembrance of the most glorious partnership in film history. --David Horiuchi

Customer Reviews:

JAR.......2007-05-15

I love Fred Astaire Movies, classic movies there's nothing like these type of movies. excellent....

GREAT MOVIES!.......2007-02-24

ARRIVED NEXT DAY I ORDERED THEM! VERY GOOD QUALITY OF MOVIES.

the astaire collection volume 1.......2007-02-20

Fred Astaire is unbeatable especially when paired with Ginger Rogers or Eleanor Powell. These are older films and of course not up to modern technical standards. However the charm and the eleghance and the excellence shine through- A must for a fan or collector.

A Real Classic.......2007-01-21

Very well done. A must have for anyone who loves the old films. Even my 10 year old son, enjoyed the dancing and singing. :-)

Astaire & Rogers.......2007-01-12

For those who are fans of this great dancing duo, here is pure heaven, five full movies of their music and dance. Granted, the stories are usually pretty thin, often silly, but well writtn and well acted. The supporting cast is uniformly great. I love "Top Hat' for the music, 'Follow the Fleet' for the wonderful dance routines, each film for something special in it. If you are not a fan, viewing these 5 will make you one.

Average customer rating:

A good watch but................
Fabulous Movie!
A Joy to Watch
A Romatic movie
supreme

Shall We Dance? (Widescreen Edition)
Starring: Richard Gere , Jennifer Lopez , Susan Sarandon , Lisa Ann Walter , and Stanley Tucci
Director: Peter Chelsom
Manufacturer: Miramax
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B0006GAI6Y
Release Date: 2005-02-01

Amazon.com

Something got lost in translation from 1996's critically acclaimed Japanese comedy, but the American remake of Shall We Dance? is not without charms of its own. In being transplanted from Tokyo to Chicago, the original version's subtle humor is shaken out of its cultural context, but this is an otherwise faithful adaptation in which a weary lawyer (Richard Gere) battles his mid-life crisis with ballroom dancing lessons, while his wife (Susan Sarandon) hires a private detective to see if he's cheating. Those expecting a Jennifer Lopez showcase will be disappointed; her role as the melancholy dance instructor keeps the beautifully lovelorn J-Lo on the sidelines, while a cast of standard-issue supporting characters (especially Stanley Tucci's clandestine faux-Latin dance lover) provide a generous dose of Hollywood-ized comic relief. All of this gives Shall We Dance? a polished sheen of mainstream entertainment that many viewers---and especially ballroom dancers--will find delightfully irresistible. --Jeff Shannon

Description

Golden Globe winner Richard Gere (Best Actor In A Musical Or Comedy, CHICAGO, 2002; UNFAITHFUL) and Jennifer Lopez (JERSEY GIRL, MAID IN MANHATTAN) step out in a delightfully sexy comedy with a sizzling all-star cast! John Clark (Gere) is a meek workaholic who feels trapped in a dull, mind-numbing existence. But one night, his whole life changes when the sight of a beautiful dance instructor (Lopez) inspires him to break out of his mold and sign up for ballroom dancing lessons! Now, he'll have to step lightly -- and do some fancy footwork -- if he expects to keep his exciting new passion a secret from his family and friends. Also starring Academy Award(R) winner Susan Sarandon (Best Actress, DEAD MAN WALKING, 1995) and Stanley Tucci (THE TERMINAL), SHALL WE DANCE? is another acclaimed crowd-pleaser from the studio that brought you CHICAGO!

Customer Reviews:

A good watch but.......................2007-06-30

There is something about Jennifer Lopez's character that just doesn't come off. Jennifer's portrayal is fine but her character seem to be (isolated is the only word I can come up with). There is a certain amount of tension between Jennifer's character and Richard's, but it's almost like with just a little bit of a re-write Lopez's character could have been of much less import, portrayed by any number of actresses, and the movie wouldn't have suffered much. But the casting is good,and the dance scenes are good. With all it's flaws it's still a good watch.

Fabulous Movie!.......2007-06-27

This is such a fun movie to watch! Wonderful! I have watched it at least 3 times since I bought it. It makes you want to learn ballroom dancing. But once you see the behind scenes and how hard ballroom dancing is, you gain a huge respect for it all. The widescreen version is the absolute best I have seen.

A Joy to Watch.......2007-06-12

In "Shall We Dance?", Richard Gere plays John Clark, a successful Chicago attorney. He's got a beautiful, successful wife (played by Susan Sarandon) and two normal, well-adjusted children. However unknown to those closest to him, Mr. Clark is unhappy.

One day on his way home from work, he sees a beautiful woman (Jennifer Lopez) looking out a window of a dance studio. She looks exactly the way he feels. On impulse he leaves his train and enters the dance studio. Confronted by `Paulina', he can think of nothing else but sign up for lessons. It is through ballroom dancing he experiences joy and finds new friends. His lessons are secret but his family notices a change in him.......

This film functions well on all levels. It's about being yourself. It's about the need for artistic expression. Also it is about the sanctity of marriage and the basic human need for intimacy. The supporting actors are brilliant especially Stanley Tucci as John Clark's law partner who maintains a secret life as a Latin dancer. He hides his dream as under a ridiculous wig behind false teeth. The school is run by alcoholic Miss Mitzi played by Anita Gillette in a fine subtle performance.

Lisa Ann Walter plays Bobbi a woman that is anything but subtle. She hides her insecurities and frustrations with life under an obnoxious personality. Jennifer Lopez's scene explaining the rumba is classic. Miss Mitzi's comment afterward sums it up perfectly..... :-)

The dance performances are superb. Except for Jennifer Lopez, none of the principal characters were trained as dancers. In the case of Ms. Lopez she had no previous ballroom experience. You'd never know it to see her dance. The lack of dance experience in the other actors is beneficial to the film. We get to see them evolve as they learn to dance and in the process grow as human beings.

This film is a western remake of the excellent Japanese original. Since it is a remake, I can't give it the highest rating. The creative staff of this remake copied the fine features of the original with western sensibilities. In the process they ensured the story lost none of the charm that makes a joy to watch.

A Romatic movie.......2007-06-11

The characters of the movie are very professionals. I like the way they dance.

supreme.......2007-04-05

It is a great movie !!!! and for me the most important thing is to see and enjoy RICHARD GERE.

Average customer rating:

A good watch but................
Fabulous Movie!
A Joy to Watch
A Romatic movie
supreme

Shall We Dance? (Full Screen Edition)
Starring: Richard Gere , Jennifer Lopez , Susan Sarandon , Lisa Ann Walter , and Stanley Tucci
Director: Peter Chelsom
Manufacturer: Miramax
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $7.49 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( S ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
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Take the Lead
Shall We Dance?
Shall We Dance?
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Dance with Me

ASIN: B0006GAI6O
Release Date: 2005-02-01

Amazon.com

Description

Customer Reviews:

A good watch but.......................2007-06-30

Fabulous Movie!.......2007-06-27

A Joy to Watch.......2007-06-12

A Romatic movie.......2007-06-11

The characters of the movie are very professionals. I like the way they dance.

supreme.......2007-04-05

It is a great movie !!!! and for me the most important thing is to see and enjoy RICHARD GERE.

Average customer rating:

On VHS

Ballroom Dancing for Absolute Beginners
Starring: Ballroom Dancing for Absolute Beginners
Manufacturer: Bayview Films
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Special Interests | Genres | DVD | Video

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Product Features:

2 DVD set
Easy-to-Learn
Expert Instruction
Cinematic Shots
Practice Music CD Offer

ASIN: B000F8SA2C
Release Date: 2007-05-22

Product Description

Learn to for Fun, Fitness or Romance! Imagine being able to Waltz at a Wedding; Foxtrot to a live Jazz or Big Band; or even get up and Tango, Cha Cha or Salsa at a Latin Club. Absolute Beginners can finally cure their two left feet with simple and easy-to-learn instruction in the comfort of their own home. Learn from the champions: Robert Tang and Beverley Cayton-Tang are North American Professional Rising Star Standard Ballroom Champions. As Amateurs, they were also 3-time Canadian and 2-time North American Undefeated Amateur Standard Champions. Cure your two left feet. "For Absolute Beginners Ballroom Dancing" is a 2 DVD series that covers all the basic steps needed for any social dance situation and on any size floor. Series 1 features the Social Foxtrot, Waltz and Tango. Series 2 features Salsa, Cha Cha, Rumba and Jive/Swing. "For Absolute Beginners Ballroom Dancing" is the culmination of Robert & Beverley's popular group workshops which continue to sell out. Order by November 31st, 2006 and get a FREE "abfab" Ballroom Dancing Practice Music Audio CD!!!

Customer Reviews:

On VHS.......2007-04-09

I had this on VHS not too long ago. Buying the DVD for sure. It is great and I remember thinking it would be better to forward and reverse if it's on DVD. It is 2 DVDs so I don't think the price is bad considering the instruction was easy and informative.

Average customer rating:

Shall We Dance (1937)
This is their best picture together.
Fred, Ginger, Edward Everett Horton and Eric Blore
"They Can't Take That Away From Me"
Shall We Laugh?

Shall We Dance
Starring: Fred Astaire , Ginger Rogers , Edward Everett Horton , Eric Blore , and Jerome Cowan
Director: Mark Sandrich , and Friz Freleng
Manufacturer: Turner Home Ent
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Musicals & Performing Arts | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $9.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( S ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

Top Hat
Swing Time
The Gay Divorcee
Follow the Fleet
The Barkleys of Broadway

ASIN: B0009NSCQC
Release Date: 2005-08-16

Amazon.com

The chemistry between Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers was still going strong in their seventh spin around the dance floor, Shall We Dance? And this time--amidst the usual improbable plot confusions and on-again, off-again flirting between the two--they were backed up by a song score provided by the matchless George and Ira Gershwin. Among the highlights are "They All Laughed," "Let's Call the Whole Thing Off," and the Oscar-nominated "They Can't Take That Away from Me." Director Mark Sandrich, the most frequent helmer of the Astaire-Rogers pictures (including Top Hat), creates a gleaming showcase for his stars. He also brings back two devilish character actors, Edward Everett Horton and Eric Blore, to repeat their support from previous outings. Ginger is kicky and fun; she was one of the few partners who didn't look intimidated onscreen by Astaire's incomparable dancing skills. Fred is in great form himself--so good you almost believe it when he pretends to be a Russian. --Robert Horton

Description

To keep musical-comedy star Linda Keene from retiring to marry, her manager Arthur Mille, suggests to the press that she's already married to Petrov, the ballet dancer. The two ultimately decide to marry so that they can have very public divorce and clear the air, but true love blossoms between them.

Customer Reviews:

Shall We Dance (1937).......2007-06-21

Seventh Astaire-Rogers outing finds the formula still fresh, aided by a tip-top Gershwin score (including "They Can't Take That Away From Me" and "Let's Call The Whole Thing Off"), and the return of series veterans Edward Everett Horton and Eric Blore, who, as always, supply delightful support. And just behold that dance on roller-skates!

This is their best picture together........2007-02-19

With Fred and Ginger joined by George and Ira... This is their best picture together.

We begin in Paris, where Fred is Petrov the "Russian" ballet dancer who is really Peter P Peters of Philadelphia PA. Ginger is Laura Keen, American musical dancing star. They meet because Fred has seen her picture and fallen in love with her. He calls but at that moment Ginger has had her fill of adoring male fans and it doesn't help matters that Pete puts on a fake Russian accent "("I must go to Moscow...") and manages to so disorient Ginger that she packs her bags and sets sail for America.

Edward Everett Horton, who is Fred's perfect comedic foil here as in others of their films, plays the ballet impresario Jeffery Baird--dithering and droll as ever. He and Fred book on the same ship as Ginger ("The Queen Anne") a deco delight of the seas with teardrop shaped windows and other streamlining that would make the Normandie and Isle de France blush. After a gangway encounter that does not go terribly well, Fred tries to make amends. At first Ginger is icy but as always, she begins to melt...

For a time, however, Fred more or less disappears and is AWOL from ballet rehearsals. That is because he loves modern music and to prove it we get "Slap that Bass" one of Fred's very best solo numbers, as he picks up the rhythms of the black combo and combines it with the sounds of the ship's engines to create what is a "look ma no hands!" kind of a tour de force tap dancing solo.

Also on board a lot of zaniness occurs as Fred, along with Ginger's manger named Arthur Miller (!), played by Jerome Cowan in one of his best rolls, fool Horton into thinking in one scene that he is seasick, and in another that the ship is on fire and in danger of sinking. Both are hilarious.

Back to the wooing, there was never such sophisticated courting music as George's captivating "Walking the Dog" (except perhaps for the similarly engaging incidental music by the pool in "The Philadelphia Story"). Fred woos Ginger by endearing himself to a passel of pooches, and her little dog, too.

Once he knows and she knows that they have fallen for one another he sings the marvelous "Beginners Luck" at the ship's rail. This is one of several moments in the film where they do not feel that they have to go into their dance in order to convey the meaning of the song. And it is a great introduction to one of the many Gershwin standards they introduce in this picture.

Confusion is rife however due to a ruse that Horton created to get a designing woman, former ballet dancer Denise AKA Lady Tarrington, off Fred's trail. Horton has said that Fred is married and Lady T. being a loose lipped kind of a gal buys the story and spreads the word. Everyone on two continents and on the liner jump to the not unlikely conclusion that the wife in question is Miss Keen. When word leaks out, Ginger leaves in a hurry, taking off in the mail plane, catapulted from the deck of the liner--way to travel!

Stateside, Horton and Eric Blore as the hotel manager get into a mistaken identity bit of dialogue that is priceless. Soon, Ginger introduces the wonderful "They All Laughed", wearing the only flawed gown in the film, what we here at home call The Amoeba Dress. She thinks she is done but Fred leaps up and tells the crowded night club that now he and she are going to dance together for the first time in public. Here is one of their "make it up as we go" numbers and from Ginger's first timid twist onward it works beautifully. They combine Fred's ballet steps with Ginger's Broadway hoofing and it all blends like a good cocktail.

One wishes that Ginger had switched out the wardrobe, however and worn the fringed gold lame dress she had on in Paris...

More confusion ensues...Poor hotel manager Blore keeps changing the locks on Fred and Ginger's adjoining suites as he wails, "Mrs. Petrov are you Miss Keen? Miss Keen are you Mrs. Petrov?" Hiding out from the paparazzi Ginger and Fred make for Central Park where they engage in the latest craze of roller skating to the witty and unforgettable Po-TAY-toe, Pa-TAH-toe song, "Let's Call the Whole Thing Off". This kind of dance novelty was one of Fred's fortes and they both are wonders on wheels.

In order to be able to stop the rumors they decided to get married in order to get divorced to prove that they aren't married--this is after all a screwball comedy, so they go to New Jersey to wed where Fred asks what the grounds are for divorce in this state and the Justice of the Peace answers, "Marriage." On the way home on the Ferry they get out of their marvelous car and Fred sings the lovely "They Can't Take That Away From Me". Ginger's eyes well with tears and we know that they are both deeply in love even as they are going ahead with their plan to divorce.

Papers need to be served and this winds Blore in jail where one of the funniest comic bits ever filmed occurs between him and Horton, its' appeal rivals the famous "Whose on First?"

The whole cast assembles for a review in which Ginger is not to appear, so Fred dances with Harriet Hocker who is flexible indeed while the rest of them engage in a shushing contest with the audience. Ginger is reunited with Fred when she sees that since he cannot dance with her, he is dancing with scores of girls with Ginger masks. The set is great, lots of mirrors that open and close and a lot of business with the masks until Fred finds the one and only dancer who is really Ginger, all of this to the peppy "Shall We Dance?"

Fred and Ginger have the last laugh and keep us smiling, too.

Yes, friends, this is another RKO Radio Picture.

Fred, Ginger, Edward Everett Horton and Eric Blore.......2006-08-21

"Shall We Dance" introduced some of the great Gershwin songs that more than half a century later were included in shows such as "Crazy for You." Not only are Fred and Ginger at the top of their form, but we also enjoy the great Edward Everett Horton at his double-taking best, and the under-rated Eric Blore at his supercilious-est. The "Slap that Bass" number epitomizes Hollywood's grudging recognition that Blacks possessed great talents, but these could not be shown in any scenes in which they were equal to Whites. The roller-skating scene is another classic, and according to some accounts, required some 150 takes to make it look so smooth.

"They Can't Take That Away From Me".......2005-09-04

The beloved "Shall We Dance" was the only Fred and Ginger film with songs from George and Ira Gershwin, and they were splendid. Songs like "They Can't Take That Away From Me" made for great entertainment when coupled with the opulent RKO sets in this Pandro S. Berman production. The lively tale of mix-ups and misunderstandings was from a screenplay by Allan Scott and Ernest Pagno, based on an adaptation by P.J. Wolfson of a story by Lee Loeb and Harold Buchman. Ginger's gowns by Irene were fabulous as always and Mark Sandrich once again took the helm.

On his stay in Paris, Pete (Fred Astaire), a famous ballet dancer also known as Petrov, wants to meet musical comedy star Linda Keene (Ginger Rogers), and in fact, would like to marry her! Pete and his pal Jeffrey (Edward Everett Horton) discover she's sailing on the S.S. Queen Anne and follow her. Pete uses a fake accent for a short time but is eventually found out, and finds out that dogs are the way to a girl's heart.

A wild story Jeffery told Lady Tarrington (Ketti Gallian) in Paris comes back to haunt Pete, as suddenly everyone on the cruise thinks he and Linda have been secretly married, and are going to have a baby! It's a bit much for Linda, who has sworn off reporters, and they decide to really get married, so they can get divorced. But it's too late for Linda, as she has fallen in love with the pursuing Pete, and there is a sadness as Pete sings "They Can't Take That Away From Me" on a ferry to Manhattan after it's all done. The tune was nominated as Best Song but lost the Oscar to "Sweet Leilani" from "Waikiki Wedding."

Hilarious moments in the film include Edward Everett Horton and Eric Blore in a "hushing" duel with ballet patrons, Horton and Jerome Cowan getting tight, with Horton getting ill afterward, and Fred convincing Horton that he's seasick, even though the water is perfectly calm. Blore ends up in jail for the second time in one of the couple's pictures and is once again a riot.

Ginger sings "They All Laughed" and she and Fred share a lovely dance that culminates with a smile, as the couple sit on a piano. A fun and famous scene has them on skates in the park, dancing to "Let's Call the Whole Thing Off." Fred's character Pete wants to dance with Linda all his life, but what's he to do when she won't consider it? Dance with images of her, that's what. A charming conclusion has Linda joining the other girls, but Pete can't figure out which is the real Linda. Will Linda say yes to Pete? If you are a fan of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers you know the answer to that one!

Devoted fans of one of the most fondly remembered couples in screen history might be shocked to learn that during production, there were plans for this to be their final film. "Swing Time," their previous entry, now widely regarded by film historians, along with "Top Hat," as the zenith of their films together, had done huge box office business in large cities upon its initial release. But that business had quickly subsided and there were those at RKO who felt they had gone to the well once too often.

Fortunately for us, that theory was squashed, and we got to see the hilarious "Carefree" and the tender "The Story of Vernon and Irene Castle" before the couple said farewell. Again, fortunately, we don't have to say farewell, only "see you later," because we now have the ability to watch these wonderful films at home whenever we want. "Shall We Dance" is a charming reminder of a magic that passed this way only once, and something you'll want to capture forever by picking up a copy today.

Shall We Laugh?.......2005-08-29

This film is primarily a screwball comedy with dance and song numbers thrown in for good measure. The story concerns a ballet star(Fred Astaire) and a stage performer(Ginger Rogers) who may or may not be married depending on whom you ask. Given the celebrity of the two parties involved hijinks and scandal ensue. Both Fred and Ginger are in top comic form with their verbal sparring. Need we redundantly state that they dance together exquisitely. Good supporting cast includes the perpetually nervous Edward Everett Horton, the droll Eric Blore, and Jerome Cowan("The Maltese Falcon"). Good score by the Gershwin brothers. You do not hear much about this film in the annals of screwball comedy probably because the principals are known primarily for their dancing. Check this film out if you want to see a first rate comedy.

Shall We Dance DVD Authentic Region 1 Starring Fred Astaire & Ginger Rogers 1937

Average customer rating:

Shall We Dance DVD Authentic Region 1 Starring Fred Astaire & Ginger Rogers 1937

ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

DVDs Under $14.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

Starring: Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers
Director: Mark Sandrich
Genre: Classics
Format: Full Screen ...
Awards: Academy Award® Nominee

ASIN: B000KYT26E

Product Description

Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers kick up their heels on an ocean liner in this musical. Ballet star Pete Peters (Astaire) is in love with celebrity Linda Keene (Rogers), and his infatuation leads him to set sail across the Atlantic. Unfortunately, he hardly knows her, but a little white lie results in everyone thinking the two stars are married. George and Ira Gershwin provide the musical score that includes "They Can't Take That Away from Me."

Average customer rating:

A good watch but................
Fabulous Movie!
A Joy to Watch
A Romatic movie
supreme

Shall We Dance
Starring: Richard Gere , Jennifer Lopez , Susan Sarandon , Lisa Ann Walter , and Stanley Tucci
Director: Peter Chelsom
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $9.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( S ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

Take the Lead
Shall We Dance?
Shall We Dance?
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ASIN: B0006Z2KMU

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Customer Reviews:

A good watch but.......................2007-06-30

Fabulous Movie!.......2007-06-27

A Joy to Watch.......2007-06-12

A Romatic movie.......2007-06-11

The characters of the movie are very professionals. I like the way they dance.

supreme.......2007-04-05

It is a great movie !!!! and for me the most important thing is to see and enjoy RICHARD GERE.

Average customer rating:

A good watch but................
Fabulous Movie!
A Joy to Watch
A Romatic movie
supreme

Shall We Dance
Starring: Richard Gere , Jennifer Lopez , Susan Sarandon , Lisa Ann Walter , and Stanley Tucci
Director: Peter Chelsom
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

( S ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

Take the Lead
Shall We Dance?
Shall We Dance?
Strictly Ballroom
Dance with Me

ASIN: B0006Z2KLQ

Amazon.com