Royal Wedding

The Royal Wedding is a 1951 American romantic comedy film starring Fred Astaire and Jane Powell. The movie takes place in the spring of 1947, in the aftermath of World War II. Tom Bowen (played by Fred Astaire) is an American dance instructor, and his sister, Ellen (played by Jane Powell), is a young ballerina. Tom is a seasoned dancer with a flair for show business, while Ellen is still learning the ropes of the dance world. Tom and Ellen are approached by a British agent, Jack Brady (played by Peter Lawford), who represents a prominent dance company in England. Brady asks them to come to London and perform at the upcoming Royal Wedding, which will take place in November 1947. The royal wedding in question is that of Princess Elizabeth, currently the future Queen Elizabeth II, to Prince Philip. The Bowens see this as an opportunity to showcase their talents and make a name for themselves in the competitive world of entertainment. Tom is immediately smitten with the idea of performing in a high-society event in England, and Ellen is thrilled at the prospect of dancing in front of royalty. They accept the offer and soon find themselves on a transatlantic flight to London. Upon their arrival in England, the Bowens settle into a luxurious flat in Kensington. They quickly learn that the royal wedding will be a grand affair, with all the pomp and circumstance that comes with it. As they prepare for their performances, they meet various eccentric characters, including a flamboyant and opinionated British aristocrat, Lord John Brindale (played by Peter Lawford, once again), who becomes a love interest for Ellen. Meanwhile, Tom meets Anne Ashmond (played by Sarah Churchill), a talented and feisty British ballerina, who not only becomes his dance partner but also his love interest. As they rehearse and perfect their routines, the chemistry between Tom and Anne grows, and they begin to develop strong feelings for each other. As the big day approaches, Tom and Anne are cast as the lead dancers in a production of 'The Three Musketeers,' while Ellen and John perform in a 'Bolero' duet. However, things take a complicated turn when Tom and Anne are forced to dance a routine together that requires them to be very close. The tension between them becomes palpable, and they struggle to maintain their professionalism. On the eve of the royal wedding, the Bowens and their friends prepare for the performance, which promises to be a spectacular display of dance, music, and grandeur. As they take to the stage, they captivate the audience and delight the royal couple with their performances. As the night unfolds, Tom and Anne finally confess their love for each other, and Ellen and John share a romantic moment. The movie concludes with the Bowens returning to America, having successfully showcased their talents and made new friends and love interests in England. The film features a delightful score by Albert Hirschfelder and an assortment of classic dance routines, showcasing Astaire's unparalleled skill and Powell's charm and vulnerability. Despite some dated humor and cultural references, 'The Royal Wedding' remains a charming and engaging romantic comedy that pays homage to the grandeur and magic of the British royal court.